Sass: it’s a slippery, hard-to-define word that has come to mean many things to us over the years. It got us in trouble in second grade when our high-heeled sneakers we’re dubbed “too much” for the playground; it locked us in our room as a teenager, when we served our sass seasoned with adolescent attitude; and its left us pink-in-the-cheeks more times than not, when our cheeky commentary has slipped through the lips without a filter.

But, in the end, we’ve ultimately come to view sass as one thing: gumption. Sass is the uninhibited expression of confidence and personality; an intangible quality that turns heads and brightens rooms. So, to inspire you to let your sassiness shine, we came up with five simple ways to add some extra sparkle to your look. We recommend donning one sassy addition at a time; speaking from firsthand experience, too much sass at once might get you grounded…

Lush, Look-At-Me Lashes

There’s a reason we recently featured false lashes as a 1-Minute Makeover—they instantly transform your look from ordinary to glamorous. To apply like a pro, check out our step-by-step guide.

MDC Tip: If you’re ready to step up your lash game, we love Shu Uemura Natural Volume False Eyelashes and Benefit Cosmetics Lash Lovelies-Pinup.

Voluminous, Unapologetic Curls

Add a major dose of style to your everyday routine with big, voluminous curls. Start by following our professional guide to volume at the roots, then finish the look by setting your hair in hot rollers, or curling your strands with a large barrel curling iron.

MDC Tip: Keep the curls in place all day with Alterna Bamboo Ultra Hold Hairspray or L’Oréal Paris Elnett Satin Hairspray Extra Strong Hold Unscented.

Major, Metallic Eyes

Seen on the runways of Versace and Chanel, (and consequently all over our Pinterest feeds), it’s no secret that metallic eye makeup is having a moment. Check out our step-by-step instructions on how to nail metallic eyeshadow, or try a shimmering eyeliner, like Urban Decay 24/7 Glide-On Eye Pencil in Cuff.

Fresh, Happy Nails

Around here, nothing makes us feel happier or more put-together than a just-done manicure. Add the extra pep to your step by trying some of our current favorites like bare nail art, colorful French nails, or an ombre manicure.

MDC Tip: No time to completely revamp your nails? Here’s how to revive your existing mani in a moment.

Flirty, Winged Eyeliner

Finally, the simplest way to add some extra pizazz to your day, only takes a dab of liquid liner and a flick of the wrist: winged eyeliner. If you need help, here’s a guide to the cat eye basics, and if you’re feeling extra sassy, we dare you to think beyond black and try golden or colorful winged liner.

So fill us in: are you feeling sassy today? What tip are you most likely to try?

Photos: Thinkstock