It's not called the silly season for nothing, get decked out like a Christmas tree.
Lately I've been breaking out the red lippy, going for gold and even eyeing up green nail polish in a sure sign of festive flights of fancy.
Between the parties and the carols I'm surrendering to the season and wanting to wear its true colours. Something with a dash of drama and a flash of sparkle.
Ahead, there's time aplenty for casual summer looks, but right now go glam. It will lift your spirits in the mad rush before Christmas.
Come the big day, you could even amuse yourself - or the cousins - with a subtly themed look, just leave the Santa hat at home. Break out the glamour look again for New Year's Eve, then pack it away for a relaxed January, when sunscreen should be your best friend.
1. Essie polish in Pretty Edgy $24.50
A minty emerald green that might frighten the in-laws, I'm tempted to sit under the tree opening my presents tipped in this. It's oddly attractive, especially on pale skin, whereas darker greens can look scary. (If in doubt, go for gold: it looks great with or without a tan and red toenails are tops)
2. Bobbi Brown Metallic Lip Color in Jewel Red $54
Smitten, I was, by this gleaming ruby red lipstick, shot with gold. I will be wearing it on December 25 but maybe the Glitter Liquid Eyeliner in Gold should wait until New Year's Eve.
3. Smashbox O-Gloss Noir $45
Adapts to a deep berry shade on each wearer, so it's a nice soft option that will suit most people without undue stickiness.
4. Dior Vernis in Timeless Gold $47
This elegant pale gold polish has a soft metallic finish, with a nice wide, flat brush to spread it on easily.
* For more of a bling thing try the glitters in O.P.I's new Burlesque range.
5. Yves Saint Laurent Rouge Pur Couture in No. 1 Le Rouge $59
YSL has brought out a new 15-shade range of vivid, colour-true lipsticks, with shiny reds strongly featured. House designer Stefano Pilati is in love with the colour, saying: "The opposite of red? A feeling of indifference, of absence." You'll certainly not be overlooked in this.
6. Fudge Shimmer Blast gold and silver spray $15
Get the tweens and teens the glitter version, but for yourself try the shimmer spray which isn't fancy dress party overpowering. Comes in gold, silver and mixed colours, brushes out and provides medium hair hold.
7. Fudge Paintbox in Cherry Bomb $22
Wanna rock Rihanna red? Well, here's how at home, with this semi-permanent shade which works best on lightened hair. Best do a test first. Lasts for up to 20 washes. You'll look a sight on Santa's knee.
Stockists: Cosmetics from brand counters at selected department stores and pharmacies, except Smashbox, Ponsonby Rd and selected Life pharmacies: see smashboxcosmetics.co.nz. Essie from Farmers and selected nail bars. Fudge from selected salons and shampoo shops, details ph 0800 456 426.
