DIY Diwali make-up tips to help you shimmer, shine, sparkle

Diwali is almost here, which means one thing -- a calendar full of outings starting with Dhanteras on Tuesday. But mind you, the festive season is all about standing out -- and perhaps going a little over the top. So, let's get this make-up shindig going ladies; oh and don't forget to take notes.

Diwali is almost here, which means one thing -- a calendar full of outings starting with Dhanteras on Tuesday. But mind you, the festive season is all about standing out -- and perhaps going a little over the top. Who are we kidding, right? This time of the year is all about playing up bright lips and beautiful eyes; even the Queen of England knows that!

Irrespective of what you wear, this is the time to inject some colour and shimmer into your make-up to look Diwali-pretty in no time. But don't you dare think about putting on the same make-up you did last Diwali. This season has new rules, new textures, new tricks. So, let's get this make-up shindig going ladies; oh and don't forget to take notes.

Fans of smoky eyes and bold red lips can rejoice as bold looks are perfect to shake things up this Diwali. But if you are looking for an alternate to glossy red lips, pick a deep berry pout instead.

“For Diwali night, hues of wine like burgundy or plum are eye-catching but not too overwhelming. As for dusky skin tones shades like orange and fuchsia are great,” says Aakriti Kochhar, beauty and make-up expert, Oriflame India.

If you’ve been dying to experiment with glittery eyes, then this is the time to dare. Think colourful smoky eyes to amp up old standbys like grey and black. This way you can wear a simple outfit and still look like a million bucks.

“Highlight the eyes with black kohl and groom the eyebrows nicely. Try gold, olive or purple eye-shadow and mascara to glam up your festive ensemble,” says leading beauty and make-up expert, Blossom Kochhar.

Aakriti suggests cobalt blue eyeliner -- it works wonderfully well for women of all complexions, she says.

"It would look great with both an ethnic or an indo-western outfit: it has just the right amount of blue."

Although there's a catch: don't wear the same colour as your dress on your eyes -- so, no blue smoky eyes if you are wearing a blue outfit.

But if you're worried that bright make-up and a bright outfit will make you look overdressed and too much, we've got you covered. If trying out something bold and interesting ain't your thing, drop the thick-layered cake of make-up and take the natural-looking route: all you need is a primer, concealer, sheer glow foundation and some blush. For a dewy and creamy look try soft shades of pink lipsticks.

"Start with cream-based eye shadows and cheek tints in metallic gold and peachy silver. Then, use your glitter eye pencils instead of regular eyeliners and finish off with a high shine lip gloss," says Aakriti.

And as it turns out, metallic is in. Sonic Sarwate, senior artist, MAC India, recommends using at least one metallic element in your make-up.

"As for the lips, pick red lipstick in a shade that suits your complexion; that way you can keep the focus of your make-up just on the lips", he says.

Also see: Hottest global make-up trends

For a quick touch-up, he suggests that if you don't have too many products on you, use lipstick as a lip stain and a cheek stain. Wow, now how many of us knew that that was not only legit but even possible?

Sarwate has one more tip: always curl your lashes and use mascara to open up the eyes even if you are not wearing any eye make-up. Use waterproof kajal and mascara to avoid smearing as late nights and crackers can make eyes watery.

But to add the perfect final touch to your Diwali look, you need the right hairdo. Depending on the attire, a ponytail, braid or chignon can enhance your festive style and give it a laidback yet sophisticated look.

Kochar suggests you to go all traditional. So adorn palms with a dash of heena, forehead with a fancy bindi and hair with kajra.

Now friends, with all that shimmery make-up and that irresistible hairstyle don’t be shocked if heads turn.