No matter how you feel about 2016, it’s hard to deny that artistry and creativity in the beauty world flourished. From rule-breaking campaigns and cult product launches to unapologetically bold makeup looks (not to mention many bare faces), there was no wrong way to express yourself through cosmetics.
As we approach the end of the year (Say it with me now: "Boy, bye!"), we're challenging ourselves to break out of our beauty ruts as well, and maybe find some looks that will help us start 2017 on the right foot.
Ahead, you'll find a trend to try for every day in December — and for those who want a challenge lite, we've called out a few editors' picks worthy of a weekly switch-up. Sure, it's a commitment during an already busy time of year, but it's a healthy one — and one that will force you to end the year stepping outside of your comfort zone, not wallowing in it.
To 2016, we say this: You weren't great, but your artistry was. So let's all go out with a strobed, glittered, chromed-out, smoky, vibrant, sometimes barefaced bang. Who's with us?
December 1: All-Peach Everything
It's day one, so let's ease in. This trend was huge in Hollywood, and for good reason: It's wildly flattering and easy to pull off.
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*Week 1 Editors' Pick
PHOTO: VIA @PATRICKTA.
December 2: A Pop Of Blue Liner
Whether it's on the waterline or the top lashline, you'll be shocked how refreshing a touch of blue can be in the winter...
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PHOTO: VIA @PORSCHEFABULOUS.
December 3: Hollywood's Favorite Kitten Flick
So soft, you may never go back to your classic flick — until the 19th, that is...
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December 4: New Nail Art
Nail art is alive and well — just simplified. Now, get paintin'.
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PHOTOGRAPHED BY GREGORY KEITH.
December 5: A Fuller, Feathered Brow
Big brows call for small strokes.
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*Week 2 Editors' Pick
PHOTO: COURTESY OF NARS.
December 6: Bright Blush
Sweep on a little more than you're used to — then wait as the compliments roll in.
For all the deets, clickhere.
PHOTOGRAPHED BY RUO BING LI.
December 7: A Brand-New Scent
You'd be shocked how much of a difference a new scent can make — and you don't have to brave the perfume department to find one.
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December 8: An Ultra-Flattering Eyeliner Shape
Not all liner shapes are created equal — which is why we're helping you find the best one for your eyes.
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PHOTOGRAPHED BY BEN RITTER.
December 9: Gold Eyes & Glossy Lips
Consider this the new Hollywood must. (Everybody's wearing it!)
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PHOTO: VIA @SHAYM.
December 10: A Pop Of Pink
It's about time pink got a cool-girl upgrade. You've likely already got the products in your bag; now it's just time to change your approach.
For all the deets, click here.
PHOTOGRAPHED BY BEN LAMBERTY AT DE FACTO INC.
December 11: A Lip Color You've Never Tried
Go ahead, sweep on blue, or green, or mauve. It might become your new go-to.
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*Week 3 Editors' Pick
PHOTOGRAPHED BY TORY RUST.
December 12: Nothing At All
Whether it's a preference, a personal statement, or just a way to save a little morning time, we're right behind you.
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Photo: Via @rcarecords.
December 13: Rule-Breaking Makeup
Fuck the rules! Bold eyes, bold lips, can't lose.
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PHOTOGRAPHED BY HANNAH KHYMYCH.
December 14: Vibrant Red Lips
The classic look gets a modern spin with a hefty amount of highlighter.
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PHOTOGRAPHED BY BRIANNE WILLS.
December 15: Next-Level Red Lips
You had a good time yesterday, didn't you? Felt pretty rad with your red lips? Great, because you're wearing them again today — but topping the lipstick with gloss or making it ombré for a cool-girl rendition.
For all the deets, click here.
PHOTOGRAPHED BY TIFFANY DAWN NICHOLSON.
December 16: Spider Lashes
Apply your mascara, then while it's still wet, gently squeeze lashes together with a pair of tweezers or your fingers.
For all the deets, click here.
PHOTO: COURTESY OF NARS.
December 17: Nude Lips
Soft and polished? Yes, please. Bonus points if you add smoky eyes and bedhead.
For all the deets, click here.
PHOTO: COURTESY OF KIRA NASRAT.
December 18: Negative-Space Nail Art
Leaving the nails bare under the design looks fresh and modern, and saves you time on painting.
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PHOTO: COURTESY OF SALLY HANSEN.
December 19: A Colorful Cat-Eye
You've tried pink; now give baby blue a spin.
For all the deets, clickhere.
*Week 4 Editors' Pick
PHOTOGRAPHED BY MARLEY KATE.
December 20: Mono Makeup
Wait, you haven't tried mono makeup yet? There's still time; 2016 ain't over.
For all the deets, click here.
PHOTO: VIA @KRISTIN_ESS.
December 21: Vampy Lips
Still nervous? Just swipe it on and don't look back. It's now or never.
For all the deets, click here.
PHOTO: VIA @LILYJCOLLINS.
December 22: French-Girl Brows
This colorful brow trend emerged from Paris this year — and surprised even us. Wear it out to the bar, or just try it while you're bored at home. (Send us an Insta pic if you do!)
For all the deets, click here.
Photo: Courtesy of Pinterest.
December 23: A Smoky Eye
Layer, layer, and layer a little bit more — then hit the town; you likely don't have work tomorrow anyway.
For all the deets, click here.
PHOTOGRAPHED BY SACHA MARIC.
December 24: A Chip-Free Manicure
It's time to treat yourself to the last manicure of the year — make it count.
For all the deets, click here.
PHOTOGRAPHED BY TORY RUST.
December 25: A Silver-&-Gold Gaze
Fa-la-la-la-la-la-la-la-la.
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PHOTOGRAPHED BY HELEN ERIKSSON.
December 26: Modern Gloss
Pile it on, baby.
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PHOTOGRAPHED BY KAILAS.
December 27: Lavender Lids
Start slowly and layer until you reach your desired result. This spring shade just got a wintry upgrade.
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PHOTOGRAPHED BY BEN LAMBERTY.
December 28: Goth Makeup
Just do it.
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December 29: Colorful Eyes
Let this last Thursday be full of whimsy. Pair your makeup with a '70s jumpsuit to be the coolest girl in the room.
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PHOTOGRAPHED BY HANNAH KHYMYCH.
December 30: Smudgy Liner
Don't overthink it, just smudge and go. Or sweep it on, take a nap, and go.
For all the deets, click here.
December 31: Glitter, Any Way You Want It
Whether it's glitter lips, freckles, or anything in-between, tonight is the night to wear the shiny stuff. Happy NYE!
For all the deets, clickhere.
*Week (Half-Week) 5 Editors' Pick
PHOTOGRAPHED BY BRAYDEN OLSON.
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PSA: Unicorn Glitter Makeup Exists