M.A.C.’s Senior Artist Lynsey Alexander lends StyleNest her beauty know-how with some top tips for makeup looks this party season. 

“Christmas is the one time of the year you can afford to make a strong statement with your make up. 
Trying something daring and new can reveal a whole new level of confidence so if smokey eyes are your thing – leave it and opt for a beautiful bold lip. The nest colours of the season include ‘Diva and ‘Rebel’ from M∙A∙C.

The rest of the face should be quite nude with a focus on hydrated moisture quenched skin. It’s the balance of the matte lip against the luminous dewy skin that makes this look work so well.

If strong lips are too daring then try a wet look eye shadow for creating similar drama. M∙A∙C Metal X shadows are perfect for this and a must-have backstage at the shows. Apply a layer of waxy khol as a base and then choose your shade of shadow on top. This is best applied with a flat brush (#239) and blended with a soft one (#217). 

Try adding false lashes also, but cut them up to create your own individual style, or layer them at the corners to give a more feline finish.

Gloss is great but for the coolest way to wear it avoid the lips and add it on the eyes. On top of eyeshadow for a greasy lived-in finish or on a bare eye to give texture and dimension.” Lynsey Alexander, M∙A∙C’s Senior Artist

Shop online at maccosmetics.co.uk