Navratri is here, and with it comes the joy of dressing up in vibrant chaniya cholis and dancing the night away. To complete your festive ensemble, the right makeup is key. Here are some simple tricks to make your look pop effortlessly.
Start with a Sweat-Proof Base
Long nights of
Garba require makeup that lasts. The secret to a durable look is skin preparation. Start by cleansing your face, then applying a lightweight, hydrating moisturiser. Once it has absorbed, use a mattifying or gripping primer to create a smooth canvas and help your foundation adhere better. Opt for a lightweight, long-wear foundation or BB cream and apply it in thin layers, building coverage only where needed. This prevents your base from feeling heavy or looking cakey after hours of dancing. Finally, set your T-zone and under-eyes with a translucent powder to control shine and lock everything in place. A final spritz of a setting spray is a non-negotiable step for a look that will last all night.
Embrace a Pop of Strategic Glitter
Nothing says 'festive' quite like glitter, but you don't need to be a makeup artist to use it. Instead of a complex glitter eye, opt for a simple, high-impact application. A glitter eyeliner is one of the easiest ways to add sparkle. Simply trace your upper lash line for a flash of shimmer that catches the light as you move. Another simple trick is to press a bit of cosmetic-grade glitter or a shimmery liquid eyeshadow onto the center of your eyelid after applying your regular eyeshadow. This creates a beautiful, eye-catching dimension without the fuss of a full glitter application. Gold, bronze, and copper tones are classic choices that pair beautifully with traditional Indian attire.
Play with Coloured Eyeliner
A simple way to make your eyes stand out and coordinate with your colourful outfit is to use a coloured eyeliner. Swap your classic black kajal for a jewel tone like emerald green, sapphire blue, or a rich purple on your lower lash line or as a winged liner. This adds an unexpected and modern twist to your look. It’s a minimal-effort trick that delivers a significant payoff, tying your whole look together. For a beginner-friendly approach, simply trace your lower waterline with a colourful pencil to make your eyes pop. Ensure the formula is waterproof to prevent smudging during a long night of festivities.
Choose a Bold, Dance-Proof Lip
A vibrant lip colour can instantly elevate your entire look. For Navratri, rich reds, deep berries, wines, and bright pinks are fantastic choices that complement festive attire. Since you’ll be celebrating for hours, choose a long-lasting liquid matte lipstick, as they are designed to be smudge-proof and transfer-proof. To make your lipstick last even longer, you can line your lips with a matching pencil first. If you find bold colours intimidating, try a burnt orange or a warm brown, which are trending and look stunning with ethnic wear. If your eye makeup is very dramatic, you can balance it with a softer nude or peach lipstick.
Accessorise with Face Gems and Bindis
One of the most effortless ways to make your makeup eye-catching is by using facial adornments. A decorative bindi is a traditional and beautiful focal point. You can also experiment with self-adhesive face gems for a more modern touch. A few tiny gems placed at the outer corner of your eye, along the brow bone, or near your temple can create a stunning effect. To apply, make sure the skin is clean and dry. Use a pair of tweezers or a wax pencil to place the gems precisely. For extra security, you can use a bit of cosmetic-grade lash glue. This is a simple trick that adds a touch of glamour and requires no special makeup skill.
