Ladies, we all know that a night out is the perfect excuse to unleash your inner makeup artist. Whether you’re hitting the club, going out for drinks, or just want to show off your cute outfit. The right makeup can make you feel like a million bucks. Or at least like you spent more than $10 on that wine. So, without further ado, here are five stunning makeup ideas to make sure you slay the night away.
Related article: 4 Simple Steps to Get a Flawless Makeup Base
5 Stunning Makeup Ideas for a Night Out: Because You Deserve to Shine!
1. The Classic Smokey Eye: For When You Want to Channel Your Inner Femme Fatale
Let’s start with a classic. The smoky eye is like the little black dress of makeup—timeless, versatile, and always sexy. This look says, “I’m mysterious, I’m confident, and yes, I did just spend 20 minutes blending my eyeshadow.” To achieve this sultry look, you’ll need a palette with dark shades like charcoal, black, and deep browns. My favorite is by a company called MAKI YIKA.
Start with a neutral base on your lid, then blend a darker shade into your crease. Smudge some eyeliner along your lash line (top and bottom), and finish with several coats of mascara.
Pro tip: A little bit of highlighter in the inner corners of your eyes will make them pop. It will be like a cork from a champagne bottle. Just try not to blind anyone with your newfound sparkle.
2. The Bold Red Lip: Because Subtlety is Overrated
If you’re the kind of gal who likes to make an entrance, a bold red lip is your best friend. This look is all about confidence—and, let’s be honest, a good lip liner. The trick to nailing this look is to keep the rest of your makeup simple. Let your lips do the talking (metaphorically, of course—too much talking could smudge your masterpiece).
Start by exfoliating your lips (nobody likes a flaky red lip), then apply a lip balm to keep them hydrated. Outline your lips with a matching red lip liner, and fill them in with your favorite red lipstick. Matte, satin, or glossy—whatever floats your boat. Just make sure it’s kiss-proof, because you never know where the night might take you.
3. The Glitter Glam: For When You Want to Shine Bright Like a Diamond
Sometimes, you just need a little glitter in your life. Whether you’re heading to a party or you just feel like channeling your inner disco ball. A glittery makeup look will ensure you’re the star of the night. Start with your eyes—because if there’s anywhere glitter should go, it’s there. Choose a shimmery eyeshadow or glitter pigment in a shade that complements your outfit.
Apply it generously to your lids, then blend a matte shade into your crease to balance the sparkle. Add some eyeliner and mascara, and you’re good to go. If you’re feeling extra daring, add some glitter to your cheekbones or collarbones for that all-over glow. Just remember: a little glitter goes a long way. Unless you’re aiming for “extra,” keep the rest of your makeup subtle.
4. The Glowy Goddess: For When You Want to Look Effortlessly Radiant
Who says you can’t look like you’ve been kissed by the sun at 10 PM? The glowy goddess look is all about radiance, dewiness, and a touch of bronzer in all the right places. Start with a hydrating primer to give your skin that lit-from-within glow. Follow up with a dewy foundation or BB cream to keep things light and fresh.
Next, apply a liquid highlighter to the high points of your face. Focus on your cheekbones, brow bones, the bridge of your nose, and Cupid’s bow. Add a touch of bronzer for a sun-kissed look and finish with a nude or peachy lip gloss. The result? A fresh, natural glow that says, “I woke up like this.” This is true even if you’ve spent an hour in front of the mirror.
5. The Bold Brows: For When You Want Your Eyebrows to Do the Talking
Last but not least, let’s talk about bold brows. If the eyes are the windows to the soul, then the brows are the curtains. We all know a room looks better with great curtains. Bold brows can transform your entire look, giving you a polished, defined appearance with minimal effort.
To achieve bold brows, start by shaping them with a pencil. You can also use a pomade in a shade that matches your hair color. Use short, hair-like strokes to fill in any sparse areas, then set them in place with a brow gel. Pair your brows with a simple eye look and a neutral lip, and let those brows take center stage. Remember, friends don’t let friends neglect their brows—so go big or go home!
