The New Day-to-Night Beauty Look to Master This Holiday Season

The holiday lights won’t be the only things glowing this season thanks to a new take on day-to-night beauty that plays up features to shine in the best way possible.

Sure, a bold red lipstick always makes for a strong switch-up, but according to Gregory Arlt, M∙A∙C Cosmetics’ director of makeup artistry, it’s also about illuminating skin to really stand out.

Here, Arlt explains the most modern way to take makeup from day to night, thanks to some simple techniques and no-fail beauty products.

What is the most effective way to take makeup from day to night?
Strobing is a great way to illuminate the skin and make it pop in darker environments such as a restaurant, club, or bar. I love to put a bit of M∙A∙C Cream Colour Base in Pearl onto the ring finger and tap it onto the upper cheekbones, chin and bridge of the nose to bring the features out in a hyper-real way. Those with darker skin tones might like M∙A∙C Cream Colour Base in Bronze done in the same way. On the note of illumination, think gloss for lips. I recommend swiping one over your existing lip color (or on its own). The shinier, the better! Try M∙A∙C Dazzleglass in Steppin’ Out.

What is the best way for someone to freshen up her skin without piling on more or looking too cakey?
The secret weapon? M∙A∙C Prep + Prime Fix+! This is my desert island product. It’s a mineral spray that you can use before your moisturizer to set makeup after you apply it, and/or to freshen up after a long day. A few spritzes is all you need at the end of the day to rehydrate and refresh. If you’re looking a little cakey around the eyes, spray Fix+ onto a 252 Large Shader Brush and tap over the problem areas.

What are key products for a standout look for someone who is going from work to a holiday party and wants a statement feature?
Concentrate on your two areas of mobility: your eyes and lips. Keep a black waterproof pencil in your bag, and line around the lash line. I love M∙A∙C Pro Longwear Eye Liner in Definedly Black for its lasting power. Also, think lips! Of course, a matte red lip is the “little black dress” of makeup, so grab M∙A∙C Retro Matte Liquid Lip Colour in Fashion Legacy for a true matte red. If red is a little intimidating, go for a lighter gloss. M∙A∙C Viva Glam Ariana Lipglass is my favorite for its sheerness and major bling!

All of Arlt’s makeup must-haves are now available at M∙A∙C Cosmetics at The Americana at Brand.

All of Arlt’s makeup must-haves are available now at M∙A∙C Cosmetics. Be sure to check out M∙A∙C Cosmetics’ eccentric Nutcracker ballet at The Grove in Los Angeles on November 4th through 6th, showcasing more show-stopping looks from its Nutcracker Sweet collection!