Starbucks red cups are here and that means twinkling lights and champagne toasts can’t be far behind. In the interest of holiday preparedness (ok, holiday party preparedness), we’ve concocted the perfect formula for your holiday evening bag. Five products and plenty of room your cellphone, cash and secret stash of mistletoe (just in case).

1. Lip Color That Does it All

Holidays are the perfect excuse to choose a statement-making lip color, as long as that statement isn’t ‘this lipstick looked great two hours ago.’ This time of year everything gets drier so pick a product that provides the hydration of a balm without sacrificing major color saturation. Gloss girls will love the new Maybelline Color Elixir by Color Sensational. Lipstick devotees should try Giorgio Armani Rouge Ecstasy.

2. Complexion Enhancing Luminizer

Partying hopping or simply heading out straight from a long day at work can leave your complexion in need of pick me up. Apply Yves Saint Laurent Touche Éclat or Benefit Watt’s Up to cheeks, brow bones and the inner corners of your eyes, and show up to your next soiree looking luminous.

3. Eyelash Defining Mascara

Mascara is the evening bag MVP (most valuable product). It’s portable, lightweight, and easy to apply on the go. Plus, applying one more coat always brings a little extra twinkle to the eyes. Stock your sparkly clutch with a clump-free formula; lengthening mascaras like Lancôme Définicils High Definition Mascara and Clinique High Impact Mascara will do wonders for your lashes.

4. Travel-Friendly Fragrance

Perfume isn’t typically a go-to when it comes to packing an evening bag, but not feeling fresh can put a damper on your party personality. Opt for a slim rollerball of fragrance–guaranteed to slip into even the sleekest of clutches. A discreet dab of Ralph Lauren Romance or Viktor & Rolf Flowerbomb on your pulse points and you’re sure to feel every bit as bubbly as the drink you’re holding.

5. Oral Hygiene Necessities

No one wants to mix and mingle with your late-afternoon-latte you. Breath mints are essential. And don’t forget the floss, you don’t want to end up huddled up in front of the powder room mirror trying to fish a piece of spinach out of your teeth with a business card.

 

What lip color will you wear to your next holiday soiree? We’ll always take some shade inspiration; share yours below.

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