Dressing your face for the last night of the year
New Year’s Eve trends balance minimal makeup, softened glam and practicality, with artists urging flexibility, comfort and personal style
The excitement that comes with the last night of the year, a mix of looking back at where we have been and getting ready for what is next, is different from any other occasion. Most of us feel like putting in that extra bit of effort to look and feel our best, even if the plan is just a casual get-together. But while New Year's Eve is the perfect excuse to play around with your look, you do not necessarily have to veer too far from your comfort zone to feel special.
"I always tell people to have a rough idea in advance, especially in Bangladesh, where New Year's plans often involve last-minute changes," said freelance makeup artist Farhana Chowdhury.
While you don't need a rigid, step-by-step plan, Farhana suggests that having a general direction helps keep things from getting overwhelming.
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If you find yourself without one, she insists there's no need to panic.
"Decide the overall mood, whether you want something fresh, bold, or glamorous—but leave the final call for the day itself. Our weather, skin condition, and even our mood can change quickly, so flexibility helps. Makeup should feel enjoyable, not stressful."
So, how do you actually land on a look? Hafsa Ibrahim, a fashion enthusiast, choreographer, and programme coordinator at The Flow Fest, shared that the environment usually dictates the direction.
"The outfit and the kind of gathering matter most to me. A house party, a formal dinner, or a big night out all call for very different makeup. If it's a long night, I'll lean towards something more long-lasting and practical."
Farhana agrees that the occasion is the biggest factor.
According to her, a family dinner, rooftop gathering, restaurant party, or late-night hangout with friends all call for different levels of makeup intensity. Weather and comfort should also be considered, so the makeup looks polished while still being practical and long-lasting.
Over the years, the preference for heavy, 'cakey' makeup has faded. Farhana notes that while NYE used to be defined by heavy foundation and aggressive contouring, the trend has moved toward a more natural, skin-focused finish.
However, makeup artist Sura Chowdhury reminds us that you don't always have to chase what's new just because it's a big event.
"Makeup doesn't have to follow a trend specifically for a big event. A lot of people just like to stick to their usual things," the make-up artist commented.
The no-makeup look
If you are wondering what's currently at the forefront, Sura points out that minimalism is still leading the way. "The whole year 2025 was all about a very minimal look or the 'no-makeup' makeup look. So, I think that is going to stay on trend."
Actress and model Riya Ghosh is a fan of this change. "I really loved how, in recent times, people have embraced the natural makeup look. People are accepting their flaws and not trying to hide them."
Farhana sees this continuing as well, noting that people now prefer makeup that highlights their features instead of masking them. She expects to see more personalised looks, better skin prep, and lighter bases with thoughtful details.
Hafsa also agrees with this lighter approach.
"It's going to be a mix of socialising and celebrating, so I want something that looks polished but not over-the-top. I want to feel confident without feeling like I'm wearing too much makeup," she explained.
The return of glam
While the natural look is huge, Sura Chowdhury predicts that full-on glam might be making a comeback for the new year.
"The past few years, the trends kept jumping from glam to no-makeup makeup. 2016 was the year of full glam, while 2019 welcomed the idea of editorials. By 2022, everyone had that minimal makeup done with their 'clean girl' aesthetic and the sleek hair bun."
According to her, in 2025, we all adapted to what we like individually, so there isn't much of a single 'trend' to follow. However, she said, "I can totally see full glam making a comeback. Which is why this year I feel people are putting their minimal makeovers on the back burner and trusting a good glam session."
Eyes, lips and skin
Farhana suggests that for those going for a more 'glam' look, the technique is softening.
"Soft smoky eyes, especially in browns, bronze, or charcoal, are replacing harsh black smoky looks."
Riya Ghosh is planning something similar for her own celebration. "Since I'm hosting a house party, I am opting for a minimal look without any heavy foundation," she shared.
"To elevate my look, I will focus on the eyes and highlight them. Maybe I will use a bit of shimmer on them and go for a soft smoky eye," Riya added.
Sura, who has a keen interest in unique editorial eyes, wants to push the boundaries for her own look.
"I want to bring back the colours—the things I'm known for, like more editorial looks. Not gemstones, but blends and adding more colour to my eye makeup. And as for my beautiful clients, it'll always be their own preference first."
You cannot talk about New Year's without the classics. "Clean, glowing skin paired with a classic red or deep berry lip looks stunning and timeless," shared Farhana.
Riya is also reaching for those deeper shades.
"It's for the night, so I would go for red or a bit of dark red lipstick. Since I am planning to wear black attire, I think such a lipstick shade will go with the look really well."
"Dewy makeup is still popular, but it should look fresh, not oily, especially in our climate," says Farhana. She suggests that minimal makeup with a subtle shimmer works beautifully for intimate parties.
Hafsa is on the same page: "I'm leaning towards glowy skin, softly defined eyes, and a statement lip, something festive but still very me."
She also added a crucial reminder, "The best makeup is proper skin care."
Making the look last
To make sure your look stays put through the countdown, Farhana suggests a light touch.
"The secret is layering lightly. Use thin layers of foundation and cream products where possible, and set only where needed," said Farhana.
"A setting spray helps lock everything in without making the skin look dry. Blotting instead of adding more powder also keeps the makeup fresh," she added.
Sura has a specific technique for longevity: "To make your makeup last longer, always spray a setting spray such as Milani's Make It Dewy in-between each of your steps and seal it at the end with a fixing spray such as the One/Size On 'Till Dawn or L'Oreal's 3-second setting spray."
"Definitely avoid these fixing sprays if you have dry skin. Instead, just lock it in with Charlotte Tilbury's Airbrush Flawless setting spray," she concluded.
