For all your festive fêtes, Ash K. Holm (makeup artist to Kim Kardashian, Ariana Grande, and Lindsay Lohan) shares her foolproof guide to mastering a red carpet-worthy makeup look at home
When you’ve painted faces for Kim Kardashian, Ariana Grande, and Lindsay Lohan, you learn a thing or two about looking flawless in any lighting – be it a flashbulb frenzy or your friend's questionable festive fairy lights. LA-based makeup artist Ash K. Holm, who also happens to fly the Swedish flag proudly in her Instagram bio, knows exactly how to craft a covetable red carpet look (and keep the makeup intact for that post-midnight snack).
“A red carpet look is all about glowing skin, polished brows, a striking focal point — like a bold lip or dramatic eyes – and flawless execution with long-lasting products,” she shares, like it’s the easiest thing in the world. But with her tips, it might just be. Ahead of those Christmas parties yet to come, we asked Holm how to perfect a red carpet-worthy makeup look. Below, she shares her four fool-proof festive beauty tips:
Prep like a pro
Good makeup starts with great skin. “Begin with a gentle exfoliation to remove dead skin cells,” Holm advises. “Follow up with a hydrating serum and moisturiser to plump and smooth the skin. Then, apply a primer suited to your skin type to create the perfect canvas.” Holm’s ultimate insider tip? For a lit-from-within glow, dab cream highlighter on your cheekbones before foundation.
Pick a star feature
“Simplicity in design often creates the most impact,” Holm says. This means choosing between dramatic eyes or a statement lip – never both. “Balance is key. If you’re opting for a bold red lip like Dior Rouge 999, keep the eyes neutral with soft taupes or champagne tones. Conversely, if you go for a dramatic smoky eye, choose a soft nude lip to let the eyes take centre-stage.”
Go for glow
“Use a damp beauty sponge to blend a light-reflecting foundation evenly for a luminous, natural finish,” Holm recommends. For that final touch, “tightline the upper lash line with a waterproof pencil to subtly enhance the eyes without visible eyeliner.” And don’t forget the setting spray to avoid any smudging due to party-hopping.
Mid-party pick-me-ups
For those juggling holiday chaos, Holm suggests a quick on-the-go touch-up kit. “Keep a travel-sized makeup bag with essentials like brightening concealer, cream blush, and a bold lipstick,” she says. “A swipe of highlighter and a spritz of setting spray can instantly refresh your look.”
