The term "holiday makeup" might conjure visions of bright red lipstick, vibrant green eye shadow, and enough silver and gold glitter to decorate a Christmas tree. But as it turns out, a festive palette needn't leave you looking quite so ornamental. Want proof? Check out Nars's latest collection--a wonderfully rich, nuanced line that puts a more sophisticated spin on holiday beauty.

The collection includes two Cream Eyeshadows ($20 each; narscosmetics.com), in Lili Marlene, a stormy slate gray, and Nomad, a shimmering khaki. In both cases, the formula goes on smooth, lasts all day, and can easily be transitioned from office-friendly to after-dark. Equally chic and unexpected is the Belly Dance Duo Eyeshadow ($31), a highly pigmented pair of powders in metallic jade and aubergine. (When combined with generous sweeps of the Nomad liner, the duo yields a truly dazzling party look.)

Meanwhile, the line's lip offerings range from daytime neutrals, like the Bettina Velvet Matte Lip Pencil ($22), to the deeply hued Hindu Lipstick ($23), which combines glamorous seasonal color with a moist, wearable finish. For added sheen, top the pencils or lipstick with Rose Birman ($23), a sheer berry gloss, or Moonbeam, a sparkling platinum ($23). And rather than pair such opulent eyes and lips with a standard blush, Nars provides a welcome alternative, the Albatross Highlighting Blush Powder ($25)--a pale, versatile fairy dust that finishes the look just a hint of festive dimension. --Jennifer Riley