As we approach New Year’s Eve, Pat McGrath, renowned as one of the most influential makeup artists globally by Vogue and Time magazine, shares her insights for creating a stunning, festive look. Known for her transformative makeup techniques, McGrath emphasizes the importance of metallic and lustrous eyes for a dazzling impact at year-end celebrations.

 

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“The allure of New Year’s Eve is in its glitz and glam,” McGrath explains. “For a night of elegance and festivity, I recommend focusing on the eyes, ensuring they sparkle and catch the light, even in low-light settings.”

Pat McGrath, renowned as one of the most influential makeup artists globally by Vogue and Time magazine.

Pat McGrath, renowned as one of the most influential makeup artists globally by Vogue and Time magazine.

Here’s McGrath’s step-by-step guide to achieving a glamorous New Year’s Eve makeup look:

1. Eye Primer for Longevity: Begin by preparing your eyelids with PAT McGRATH LABS IntensifEYES Longwear Primer. This will smooth the eyelids and ensure your eyeshadow remains vibrant and smudge-proof.

2. Smudged Eyeliner for a Smoky Effect: Line your eyes with a black or brown eyeliner, then smudge the edges with a brush for a softened, smoky look. McGrath suggests her PermaGel Ultra Glide Eye Pencil in Xtreme Black or Blk Coffee for its blendable gel formula that offers up to eight hours of wear.

3. Pigmented Eyeshadow for Dramatic Impact: Apply one of the new Chromaluxe Artistry Pigments using your finger or a shadow brush. The pigments offer a creamy texture and intense saturation, perfect for creating a bold look. McGrath recommends shades like Midnight Temptress for a rich shimmer or Nude Euphoria for subtle sparkle.

4. Curl Lashes and Apply Mascara: Curl your lashes and add several coats of Dark Star Mascara for defined, voluminous lashes.

5. Defined and Glossy Lips: Use a neutral-colored lip liner like PermaGel Ultra Lip Pencil in shades tailored for medium to dark skin tones. Then, add a layer of neutral lip gloss, selecting from shades like Nude Negligee, Flesh Fantasy, Faux Real, Flesh Astral, or various Bronzes.

6. Layering for Extra Flair: McGrath recommends layering LUST: Gloss in Blitz Gold over MatteTrance Lipstick in Vendetta for a deep red, or LUST: Gloss in Bronze Venus over MatteTrance Lipstick in Flesh 3 for a sophisticated touch.

7. Highlight for a Radiant Glow: As a final touch, apply Skin Fetish: Highlighter + Balm Duo on the cheekbones, brow bones, and cupid’s bow. This will complement the Chromaluxe pigments and ensure your skin glows beautifully throughout the festivities.

McGrath’s approach to New Year’s Eve makeup is about creating a look that enhances your natural beauty while adding a touch of festive elegance. Her expert tips ensure that you can ring in the new year feeling confident, glamorous, and ready to celebrate.

Ntianu Obiora
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Ntianu Obiora is a versatile creative professional with over a decade of experience in publishing, marketing, communications, and digital strategy. She is the Online Editor at THEWILL DOWNTOWN