EYES
Coloured eyeliner and bright eye shadows have graced the spring/summer runways this year, replacing winter’s palette of brown, black and grey. While the thought of blue eye shadow may send shudders down the spine of any ’80s child, Petra Rijnbeek, Lancôme New Zealand national make-up artist, suggests, “When you are wearing a strong colour, such as indigo blue, you need to take the shadow under the eye to complete the whole story and give it more of a modern, smoky feel.” Alternatively, try wearing two shades of the one colour, applying the lighter shade to the inner corner of your eye and then gradually adding the darker shade as you blend outwards. For a sophisticated evening look, Meghan Thomson, Bobbi Brown education manager, suggests wearing silver, gold or bronze metallic eye shadow with a generous coating of mascara.
LIPS
Lipstick trends are taking three clear directions this season: nude, sheer and bold. For nude lips, dab concealer or M.A.C Lip Erase (RRP $40) on your lips followed by a light coat of lip balm. For sheer lips, look for translucent lipsticks and glosses or lighten your usual lipstick with a touch of lip gloss. For bold colour, try hot pinks, corals and reds, but tone it down by applying the lipstick lightly with your ring finger. Apply the colour more heavily on the middle of your top lip to emphasise your cupid’s bow. For a real ’80s rock look, try a two-toned lip: red on top, pink on the bottom. Coloured lips should be worn with groomed brows and neutral eyes.
BLUSH
Rather than peach or bubblegum-pink tones, cheeks are taking on more of a bronzed look this season. Use blush and illuminating products to sculpt and contour your cheekbones.
Expert tip:
“As well as emphasising cheekbones, blush helps to reflect colour back into your eyes, making them look clearer and more sparkly.” – Petra Rijnbeek, Lancôme New Zealand national make-up artist.
NAILS
“Spring calls for coloured nails. Keep it bright with oranges, pinks and corals. For a darker nail, go for variations of blues or purples.” Rebecca Prior, Napoleon Perdis international make-up artist.
FACE
Your skin should look fresh, healthy and hydrated with a finish that is neither matt nor shiny. Brows should be well groomed, but keep them full, soft and natural.
See a range of products to help you get this look at our Best Beauty Buys: Make-up gallery.