Oh, glitter. What would we do without you? This timeless glitzy dusting has been a fashion centerpiece for almost a century. The glitter that we know and love today first came to be in the 1930s, appearing on dresses, hair pieces, and decor. From the pages of Vogue to the fantasies of your favorite authors, there has been no shortage of sparkle ever since.
However, even for true sparkle-enthusiasts, it can be difficult to go full-on Gatsby in the world of adulting. But not all hope is lost. Makeup, shoes, nails, and more offer plenty of ways to subtly incorporate glitter into your outfits, keeping your cool in the process.
Let these ideas get you started on your journey to understated glam.
1. Try some glitter eyeshadow.
This is one of the most basic ways to incorporate a little glitter into your look. Opt for a simple outfit and make your eyes the focus. Simple golds or browns with sparkly undertones can go a long way. And if you’re feeling adventurous, go for a bolder color like purple.
2. Swipe it on your lips.
American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry found that 99.7% of adults surveyed believe that a healthy smile is socially important. But you can light up a room with more than just your white teeth. Select a sparkly lipstick or gloss to complete your makeup look. Then every smile will be a little brighter.
3. Grab a glitzy bag.
Planning to hit the town? Pair a sparkly bag with your favorite little black dress. A sparkly clutch or small saddle bag can be the eye-catching detail that your outfit needs.
4. Let your sneakers shine.
You don’t need pumps to draw attention to your shoes. Upgrade your sneaker game with a sparkly or sequined pair. While silver and black are popular options for this look, don’t be afraid to choose blues, reds, pinks, or even gold for your sneaks.
5. Add a sparkle in your hair.
The average woman has about 104 hairstyles in her lifetime, but these changes can start to blend together. While it might seem a little extra, fashion insiders are literally sprinkling glitter into their hair. The next time your’re feeling bold, try this look out.
6. Schedule a mani.
This list would not be complete without mentioning the faithful glitter manicure. While you can simply buy glittery nail polish at the store, a professional manicure will make glittery nails look more sophisticated. The nail tech may also have some advice on color choice to match your look.
Even if you are over the age of eight, you don’t ever need to give up your glitter dreams. There are plenty of ways to be glitzy and fabulous while maintaining your dignity. And if you want to get extra sparkly and throw your dignity out the window, go for it. After all, you’re an adult.