Remember last New Year’s Eve, when we were partying, sipping champagne, and toasting 2020? Ahh, simpler times. Like the other holidays, New Year’s Eve is going to look a little different this year. Not only will the celebration be limited, but your actual look is going to have to incorporate 2020’s hottest accessory: the mask. We’ve been forced to get a little creative with our fashion and style choices, but we’ve figured out ways to make the mask look chic. Hopefully, next year we won’t have to worry about the mask. But for now, we’ve got to work it. Here are four ways to style your mask look this NYE.
The Party Ponytail
The high ponytail is no stranger to New Year’s Eve. This look has become a party staple for its ability to look fresh and stay in place throughout the night. It just so happens that this look pairs perfectly with a mask as well. Without crowding the face, a high ponytail accentuates the top of the cheekbones peeking out of your mask. Take it to the next level by incorporating a bit of volume. You can do this by throwing your hair up into an elastic, leaving two chunky pieces framing either side of the face. Tease these pieces and pin them back, as pictured. You can secure the ends by using another elastic to add them to the bulk of your ponytail. Be sure to use a flat iron to get those locks sleek before you begin styling!
The Hair Flip
Pulling all of your hair to one side, either with gel or braids (like the model pictured here), is an emerging trend that we are sure to see more of in 2021. Because the mask covers most of the face, it’s a good idea to pick a style that adds exciting shapes to your look. When you pull all of your hair to one side, the deep part creates flattering angles that accentuate the eye and cheekbone. It allows you to experiment with your eye makeup, which should be celebratory anyway for New Year’s Eve! The flip also adds movement to your look without appearing to be too busy, which is why it’s a great style to wear with a mask.
The Main Event
If there was ever a time to wear a funky mask, it’s on New Year’s Eve. Turn it into a fun project by buying a plain black cover and gluing jewels (available at any craft store) onto the front. You can pick tones that will match your outfit and turn that face-covering into an epic statement piece, and the main event. Keep in mind that you’ll be drawing the eye to your mask, making it appear even busier than it already is. This is perfectly fine, but you’ll want to keep your hairstyle simple to balance it out. An elegant bun is the most comfortable choice. To keep it tight, comb straightened locks into an elastic and twist your bun around the base of the ponytail. Use pins and finisher to secure it into place!
The Low Updo
We should note that the model pictured here isn’t wearing an effective mask; however, she is giving us a ton of inspiration. You can purchase a chain mask on Amazon and get it in time for New Year’s Eve (or you can get creative with a necklace you already own) and wear it on top of a working mask. While the model’s mask isn’t totally on point, her hair definitely is! A low updo is business in the front, but party in the back. It gives you the freedom to twist, curl, and add volume to your locks. To get this style, spritz your strands with volumizing mousse before drying. Secure into a low ponytail leaving out face-framing tendrils. Twist your tendrils back and secure with pins. Then, use a curler to add body to the length of your ponytail.
