Some would argue that the biggest party of the year happens at the end (or beginning) of it. New Year’s Eve is notorious for its no-holds-barred shenanigans (just ask Lindsay Lohan, who turned down big party plans this year in an effort to revamp her public image). We’re all for indulging in some flashy sequins on the big night, but like the rest of life, it’s easy to go a little overboard. Especially with the makeup. So whether your plans involve all-out party rocking or keeping low key with your best girls, there are a couple beauty rules anyone celebrating the new year can abide by. Here, our tips for ringing in the New Year with class.

Ruffian spring 2012; Imaxtree

1. Thou shall use long-wearing liner

Make sure your eyes stay bold (and awake!) all night with a long-lasting, water-proof liner. Opt for liquid instead of pencil!

Courtesy of Deborah Lippman

2. Thou shall attune to the details

Don’t overlook the little things, like the power of an immaculate manicure. You’ll be toasting all night so your nails will be getting plenty of attention. Try a sparkly glitter polish on your fingernails, like “I Love The Nightlife” by Deborah Lippmann.

Emma Stone; Getty Images

3. Thou shall style thy hair

So you may have dropped the ball on this year’s New Year’s resolution to put more effort into styling your hair. If there’s one day to do it, this is it! We recommend straightening or curling, or if you don’t feel like fussing with it, try a nice updo or accessorize with a sparkly pin to add sophistication to your look.

Photo: Courtesy of Sephora

4. Thou shall give glitter a chance A little sparkle on the shoulders or underneath the eyes never hurt anyone. But ease up when you begin to resemble a mermaid.
Remember the children’s book If You Give A Mouse A Cookie? Use that principle when working with glitter.

Jonathan Saunders spring 2012; Imaxtree

5. Honor thy lips and thy cheeks

If you’re playing up your eyes, use a nude lipstick or a natural gloss to give your mouth some shine and a light blush to bring out your cheeks. Essentially, it’s the eyes or cheeks. Pick ONE.

6. Thou shall not covet thy neighbor’s hair/makeup/skin/etc.

Look, we’ve all got our hold ups. We get pimples in obvious places, our baby hairs can’t be tamed, the list goes on. But if you’re primping for a night out with friends, the most important thing is to feel good and feel comfortable in your skin! You’ll just be miserable if you don’t.

7. Thou shall not spend all night looking at the mirror

Give yourself the necessary bathroom breaks, but forget about ducking away to check on your hair and makeup. The habit can easily consume you and there goes your New Year’s Eve, spent in the bathroom. Bring the basics in your purse (lip gloss, concealer—no 100-color makeup mini-palette), and have fun!

8. Thou shall go with the flow

To Commandment 7: if your hair comes undone, whatever—just go with it!

9. Thou shall remember to document the night

Remember to take pics! You and your friends look amazing, anyway.

10. Thou shall remove thy makeup before finally going to bed

Trust us: you don’t want to see your eye makeup smudged across your white pillow in the morning.