Whatever holiday youre celebrating or festive occasion youre attending, add some sparkle by sprinkling yourself with gold dust. Here are some tips and tricks to brighten your look and have a little fun.

Hair: Depending upon your hairdo, thread it with gold ribbon or throw on some fine gold confetti. Temporarily paint gold into your hair with Gold Rush Shimmer Gel by John Frieda. If you highlight your hair, consider asking your colorist to include or enhance touches of gold (warm blondes) that blend with your hair and skin.

Face: Your eyes, cheeks and lips are perfect for gilding.

For your eyes, use a gold eye shadow as an accent or the exclusive color. (Its hard to find matte gold and sparkle tends to emphasize fine lines.) If youre concerned about signs of aging, keep sparkly eye shadows away from the creases and apply it under the brows as highlight. Three of my favorite golds are Colour Fresco in Gold Coin by LOreal, Shimmerific eye color by Mary Kay and the Illuminance Crme Shadow Skinlights 050 by Revlon. All three are cream shadows and tend to stay on longer than powders, which is great for get-togethers and parties.

For your cheeks, apply blush and then finish it with MK Signature Gold Glimmer Body and Face Gel on the highest sweep of your cheekbones. You can also smooth the gel onto your dcollet and shoulders for a little extra glimmer.

For your lips, polish MK Signature Gold Glimmer Lip Gloss over your lip color.

Body: Add a little body gel wherever you want a little glitter.

For your nails, layer MK Signature Gold Glimmer Top Coat over your nail color or wear it alone.

Accessorize your outfit with touches of gold. Depending upon what youre wearing, consider a gold belt or sash, gold stockings or gold shoes and bag. There are always gold earrings, necklaces, brooches, bracelets and rings for some special holiday flash.

Sprinkle yourself with "gold dust" and razzle dazzle this season.

Copyright 2005. Charlotte Maddox. All rights reserved.