Okay, so let’s talk holiday makeup kits—the ones that make your job as a makeup artist not just easier but magical! The holidays are that time of year when people want to look extra glam, whether for family gatherings, New Year’s Eve parties, or corporate events. And trust me, having the right holiday kits in your arsenal can save you time, effort, and maybe even a mini meltdown (been there, done that 🙈).
So, let’s dive into some of the most client-friendly holiday makeup kits that’ll make your work sparkle this season.
- All-in-One Face Palettes: A Makeup Artist’s Best Friend
You know those kits that have everything—blush, bronzer, highlighter, and sometimes even a contour powder? Yeah, those are gold, especially during the holiday rush when you’re working back-to-back clients. Look for palettes with versatile shades that suit multiple skin tones.
Some of my go-to’s: Charlotte Tilbury Instant Look in a Palette – This one’s a lifesaver. It has a luminous highlighter, blendable bronzer, and two blush shades that are universally flattering.
Tarte Park Ave Princess Contour Palette – It’s like a holiday miracle for contouring and adding warmth to the face.
These kits are also great for creating holiday-specific looks, whether your client wants that rosy, wintery glow or a bold, sculpted contour for a dramatic evening event.
- Eyeshadow Palettes Packed with Glam Shades 🎨
Holidays scream shimmer, sparkle, and jewel tones, right? Having a palette that combines rich mattes with festive metallics is a must. When you’re working with clients, you want options—soft golds, champagne, rich plums, and, of course, a smoky black to amp up any look.
Top recommendations: Huda Beauty Naughty Nude Palette – The textures in this palette are insane. Creamy metallics, bold mattes, and sparkly shades that catch the light perfectly in photos.
Anastasia Beverly Hills Soft Glam Palette – Classic but SO reliable. This one is perfect for creating everything from subtle day looks to full-on glam vibes.
- Mini Lipstick Sets for Endless Customization 💋
Lipstick kits are such a win, especially mini ones that come in a variety of shades. They’re compact, easy to carry, and give you plenty of room to mix and match. During the holidays, reds and berries are non-negotiables, but it’s also great to have some nude shades for softer looks.
Try these: MAC Mini Lipstick Set – Perfect for the holiday season, with iconic shades like Ruby Woo and Whirl.
Fenty Beauty Gloss Bomb Set – Because who doesn’t love a glossy lip that feels luxurious and looks extra juicy in all those holiday selfies?
- Sparkle Kits for That Extra Holiday Magic ✨
Let’s be real—holidays = glitter. Whether it’s a swipe of glitter on the lids or a pop of sparkle on the cheeks, clients go wild for it. Having a dedicated glitter or shimmer kit can help you bring that festive flair without creating a mess. (Pro tip: Always use glitter glue for zero fallout drama!)
Obsessed with: Urban Decay Heavy Metal Glitter Liners – These are so easy to use and add precise sparkle without any hassle.
NYX Glitter Goals Kits – Budget-friendly but so impactful.
- Skin Prep Kits for That Flawless Base 🧴
Let’s not forget the most important part—prepping the skin! If your client’s skin isn’t hydrated and glowing underneath, the makeup won’t sit right. A good holiday skin prep kit should include a lightweight moisturizer, primer, and maybe even a mini setting spray.
Skin prep essentials: Tatcha Dewy Skin Essentials Kit – Perfect for dry winter skin that needs some TLC before makeup.
Smashbox Photo Finish Primer Set – A solid choice for minimizing pores and creating a smooth canvas for makeup.
- Travel-Friendly Brush Sets for On-the-Go MUAs 🖌️
Holiday season means you’ll probably be working on location—clients’ homes, event venues, wherever. A travel-friendly brush set is a lifesaver for quick touch-ups and versatility.
Try these: Real Techniques Everyday Essentials Set – Affordable but effective, with all the basic brushes you’ll need.
Sigma Beauty Travel Brush Set – High-quality brushes that feel super luxurious and last forever.
- Stock Up on Setting Sprays & Powders 💨
Nobody wants their makeup melting off mid-party. A solid setting spray or powder can keep your clients looking flawless all night long. My faves?
Urban Decay All Nighter Setting Spray – This is non-negotiable. It locks everything in like a pro.
Laura Mercier Translucent Loose Setting Powder – Adds a soft-focus finish that looks stunning in photos.
MUAs Tips for Choosing the Right Holiday Kits:
Versatility is key – Pick products that work across various skin tones and types.
Compact and travel-friendly – Smaller kits are great for touch-ups and easier to carry in your kit.
Test before you invest – Always try products on yourself or a test client to see how they perform under different lighting and settings.
There you have it—a roundup of holiday makeup kits that’ll have your clients looking fabulous and you feeling like the makeup artist MVP you are. What are your go-to holiday kits? Let’s share the glam love! 🎄💄✨
