5 make-up looks to ring in the new year

New Year’s Eve is the ultimate excuse to pull out all the stops with your make-up. With 2025’s trends in full swing, it’s time to experiment with some bold, dazzling and fresh-faced looks.

We hear from professional make-up artists their five best looks to ring in the new year right.

1. A sparkling statement

Whilst glitter’s not for everyone, it would be rude not to add a touch of sparkle to your New Year’s Eve make-up. “Glitter mascara topcoats are having a moment right now, and they’re right on time for sparkle season!” says Face the Future’s resident make-up artist, Rachael Divers.

But it’s important to use the best glitter when applying so close to the eyes, “Use cosmetic-grade glitter, which is specifically designed and cut for use around the eyes,” says Divers. “Regular glitter can cause serious eye irritation and damage.”

The Perfect Waterproof Mascara (Superglossy Brown), £12, Beauty Pie

2. Barely there but beautiful

If glitter isn’t your thing, you can still have showstopping make-up with a more minimalist approach. All you need is to prioritise fresh and flawless skin and a bold lip.

“Minimal make-up on the skin keeps the look fresh and unique,” says Doll Smash make-up artist Karleigh Marsh.

For lips, a bold pink or plum is perfect for party season, and Marsh suggests setting it to avoid transfer, “Blot your lips and set with translucent powder to make your lipstick last all night.”

If you’re not one for bold lips, a barely there lip gloss is a great way to step up a simple make-up look.

Oriflame OnColour Matte Lipstick – Earthy Brown, £3.99

3. Vampy glam

For those who want something a little different, Marsh suggests leaning into Gothic glamour.

Keep the skin minimal and fresh, but switch up the usual gold eyeshadow for cooler matte tones – giving a grunge feel to the look. Instead, save gold shimmer for cheekbones and body highlights.

MAC Connect In Colour Eyeshadow Palette – Encrypted Kryptonite, £32

4. Glow all out

Glowing skin is always on trend, but for New Year’s Eve, it’s about taking that glow to the next level.

“Glitter, metallics and holographic finishes will dominate New Year’s Eve – from metallic eye finishes to luminous skin, it’s all about that gorgeous texture,” says Divers.

To achieve this look, Divers suggests using the highlighter drops for radiant skin and shimmering metallic eyeshadow. To add even extra glow, pearls and rhinestones can elevate any eye look.

Lottie London Eye Gems – Twinkle in Your Eye, £5.95

5. The all-nighter look

In the likelihood your celebration stretches into the early hours – a long-wearing make-up look is essential.

“Firstly, make sure to prep your skin well ahead of your make-up application,” says Divers, “a well-prepped base goes a long way in ensuring a flawless, longer-lasting finish.” For a budge-proof lip, she recommends a satin-matte liquid lipstick.

The key to maintaining a flawless finish that lasts lies in hydrating your skin. Prep the skin my cleansing and moisturising, then using a silicone-based primer that will act as a glue for your make-up to sit on, whilst filling in any large pores.

Of course, aftercare is just as vital as the application. “Set everything with a finely milled translucent powder for a locked-in look that still radiates a natural glow,” says Divers.