With party season right around the corner, it was only right we start practicing our full beats. Enter: martini makeup. You know, like cocktail hour makeup, but taking more inspiration from the iconic martini cocktail and infusing it with hints of sparkle, sheeny shiny glosses, and plenty of olive green. Something that is as captivating, punchy and refreshing as the drink itself.
What is martini makeup?
Martini makeup is all about channeling the sophistication and allure of a classic martini but with a hint of drama (it's party season after all) and anything else would just be a bit dry… The key elements of this makeup trend slowly dominating the beauty corner of TikTok includes shimmering eyeshadows and eyeliners in shades of greens and metallics. Think golds, emeralds and olive greens, that mimic the olive garnish in a martini glass. The result? A sultry yet elegant look that's perfect for a night out.
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Celebrity MUA and author Lan Nguyen-Grealis is no stranger to doing a mean party makeup look and she says: “My take on the look is basically the shimmer cat eye effect. It’s all about soft glamour with reflection. Reflective eyeshadows are popular for creating glamorous and eye-catching makeup looks, especially for special occasions or when you want to add some sparkle to your eyes. You can find them in a wide range of shades, from soft champagne hues to bold metallics.”
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How to do martini makeup:
A glowy base is the key to nail this look. Start with a dewy, glowing base using a luminous foundation or primer. “The look is designed to catch and reflect light, giving the eyes a luminous and striking appearance often seen on red carpet.” adds Lan.
Then, focus on the eyes with shimmery eyeshadows that catch the light beautifully. Metallic greens and golds can be blended to create a smoky, sultry effect, while a touch of champagne or silver shimmer in the inner corners of the eyes adds a twinkle reminiscent of the crispy cool bubbles that look almost crystalised in a cold martini.
Lan says: “Reflective eyeshadows come in various colours and can be used to create both subtle and dramatic eye looks. They are often available in different forms, including pressed powder, cream, and liquid eyeshadows. You can apply them to your eyelids using brushes, your fingers, or specialised applicators, depending on the product’s texture.”
“A top tip to create the look is to focus more on defining. Leaving the eyelid exposed with a soft shimmer shadow apply the darker shades in sockets and outer corner of eyes. Less black as possible or keep the liner delicate.” For ease of application Lan also advices: “For the less experienced in makeup using a cream shadow or liquid shimmer eyeshadow does the trick as they don’t budge, need very little blending and last longer.”
Gold or silver eyeliners and highlighters can be used to add a touch of glamour to your eyes, cheekbones, and cupid's bow. These metallics mimic the sparkle of a freshly shaken martini and elevate the overall aesthetic.
Eyes still need definition so Lan recommends using mascara on both top and bottom lashes to accentuate the look.
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Seal the deal with a pop of green for your ultimate martini makeup. I know, it's not usually the girlies go-to colour, but a wearable olive will go a long way and is bound to be flattering on all complexions if used right. You can use olive green eyeliner or eyeshadow to create a bold winged look or a smudged, smoky effect. Emerald and forest green shades are perfect for adding depth and drama to the eyes. For a more subtle approach, try a soft mint green on the lower lash line or as an accent colour.
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Whether you prefer a subtle nod to the martini with a touch of shimmer or you're ready to go all-in with bold green eyeshadow and metallic accents, this is the perfect way to shake up your night out beat if you're looking for something new and refreshing.
I don't know about you but, I'm gathering my favourite green and shimmery makeup products as we speak, mixing up a virtual martini, and about to give this martini makeup a hard try. So, where are we going?
For more from Glamour UK Beauty Writer Shei Mamona, follow her on Instagram @sheimamona
