Image optimize LCP Skip to content

Article: 6 Graduation Makeup Ideas For The Class of 2021

6 Graduation Makeup Ideas For The Class of 2021

6 Graduation Makeup Ideas For The Class of 2021

Makeup Looks That’ll Look Great With Or Without A Mask

Graduation season is right around the corner, and if you’re counting down the days and decorating your cap - CONGRATS! 

Surviving your last year and a half of school via online instruction, mixed lessons, or masked up wasn’t easy, and for that you deserve a round of applause or champagne. During that time, you’ve probably relied on sweats, scrunchies, and a no-makeup look. Or no makeup at all because, let’s get real, no one was dressing up for Zoom lectures, right? 

Now it’s time to (finally) go all out for that very last time as an undergrad and put together a killer graduation look - outfit and makeup

Since most schools may still require a mask during the ceremony, you can draw attention to the only part of your face that isn’t covered with an eye look that stands out. We don’t want to overwhelm you with choices because you have better things to do - like squeezing in one last study sesh before your final. So ahead, check out 6 makeup looks for your 2021 graduation.

Graduation Ceremony with RIKI SKINNY - Bestselling LED Vanity Mirror

1. The Classic Smokey Eye

Ahh, the classic smokey eye. You either have it down to a science or struggle to master it. And if you do struggle to get the perfect smokey eye, this step-by-step tutorial will show you how to master it. A neutral-colored smokey eye will work with literally any outfit you have planned for your graduation day. It will also stand the test of time. When you look back at your grad photos 50 years from now, you just might not cringe.

Bonus: add a shimmery eyeshadow or highlighter to the inside corners of your eyes to balance out a heavy smokey eye and create the illusion of larger, more doe-like eyes.

 

2. Wing It

You can’t ever go wrong with a showstopping wing and bold lip. But how do you keep your red lippie from smearing underneath a mask? No worries, we got the steps for you:

  1. Prep and moisturize the lips for a smooth base for your lipstick to glide.
  2. Line the lips to make sure the color doesn't bleed, and use a matte lipstick for extra staying power. The MAC Powder Kiss Liquid Lipcolour is long-wearing and non-fading - perfect for a day of celebration.
  3. Carefully pat lips to remove any excess.
  4. That’s it! Make sure to keep lipstick and a mirror in your bag just in case. If you want to go the extra mile, a face mask bracket is the way to go. 

Bonus: Apply foundation or concealer after creating your wing and bold lip to create crisp, clean lines and for picture-perfect application.

 

3. Dewy & Glowy

A fan of the no-makeup-makeup look? Us too! The dewy look is a hot trend for Spring 2021. Keywords here are hydration, creamy, highlighters, and bronzers. Make sure to hydrate your skin before any makeup applications, use cream or liquid products, strategically place highlighters and bronzers where you don’t get oily, and use powder on your T-zone and other oily areas. There’s a fineeee line between glowy and oily. 

Bonus: A makeup setting spray will not only set your makeup in place but will give you  that extra dewy effect on your skin. The Anastasia Beverly Hills Dewy Set Setting Spray was made for this.


4. Gold & Glittery Smokey Eye

If full glam is more your style, then why not go all out on graduation day. A gold and glittery smokey eye look will not only stand out but can perfectly transition from ceremony to the graduation party and after-party. 

Bonus: When going full glam, make sure your makeup is on point in any lighting. Riki Love Riki mirrors make that possible with different levels of daylight lighting and dimming stages.

 

5. Colorful Liner

A colorful twist to the classic winged eye and red lip combo, is a colored eyeliner and nude lip look. This may just do the trick if you're looking to go the unconventional route, which is all good because it's your day anyways! Remember, a little goes a long way with colored eyeliner. Sometimes all you need is a dash of blue or purple to make a statement.

Bonus: Colored eye products can really help enhance your eye color more than any other makeup product. Find one that works best for you. 

 

6. Colorful Smokey

Speaking of color, eyeliner isn’t the only way to add bright colors to your makeup look. A colorful smokey eye is a great way to complete an otherwise neutral outfit. And like the eyeliner, picking an eyeshadow color that compliments your eye color will only give you as many compliments as congratulatory wishes.

Bonus: To be on-trend, try a monochromatic look using similar colors on the eyes, cheeks, and lips. Make it a no-brainer by using multi-purpose products like Benefit Cosmetics Lip & Cheek Stain and Tint.

Read more

mirror selfie with RIKI lighted makeup mirror

10 CREATIVE WAYS TO TAKE A MIRROR SELFIE WITH A RIKI MIRROR

Plus, the top 3 tips for better mirror selfies You know the world has forever changed once the term "selfie" became popular and found its way to the Urban Dictionary. From selfie sticks, IG filters...

Read more
Gua Sha: A Hype Or The Next Best Thing For Your Face

Gua Sha: A Hype Or The Next Best Thing For Your Face

The Who, What, Why, And How Of  Gua Sha Facial Massages Thanks to TikTok, Gua Sha is having its moment in the skincare spotlight, but it’s not for nothing. Read on. Gua Sha, is a traditional Chines...

Read more