Summer brights that sizzle

If last month’s couture A/W 2010 Paris shows were all about the dark and devilish, end of summer beauty is the time for a fun fiesta of acid brights.

Throughout the working year a quick slick of mascara, a flawless base and a muted lip might be de rigueur, but when it comes to enjoying the last sun-kissed soirees of the summer, hot hues can take centre stage. It’s time to have fun and really experiment!

If you’re nervous about working colour in to your beauty routine, opt for either a loud lip or bright eyes while keeping the rest of your look pared down.

This will ensure that your make up has that zing factor, but still looks chic and stylish.

Try these two looks, which are both loud and lovely, but in very different ways.

Proud Pout

This bold lip look works fabulously well with bronzed skin, so introduce a gradual tanner in to your routine to give you a healthy glow.


Begin by applying Second Skin Foundation. The super-light formula will create a naturally flawless base.

Add a dusting of Natural Minerals Bronzer to all the places that the sun would usually kiss the skin – so the bridge of the nose, forehead, cheekbones and cupid’s bow.

Illuminate and open the eyes with a dab of Masterpiece Colour Precision Eyeshadow in Pearl, just in the inner corners.


Add a wash of Earth Spirits Eyeshadow in Pale Pebble across both lids.

Using Masterpiece Glide and Define Liquid Eyeliner, line the upper lid as close to the lash line as possible and add feline flicks at the outer corners.

Apply two coats of a lengthening mascara such as Lash Extension Effect.

Add that all important colour injection to the lips- try using Colour Collections Lipstick in Bewitching Coral.

Use a lip brush to apply the colour taking care to create an even finish and a perfect lip line.

Blot once, reapply and you’re ready to party.

Bright Eyes

This eye-catching look has real ‘wow’ factor. The face again is kept pared down, providing the perfect canvas for a splash of summer colour.

Begin by prepping the skin with Miracle Touch Liquid Illusion Foundation – for seamless skin perfection.

Give your cheekbones, forehead and cupid’s bow a dusting of Natural Minerals Bronzing Powder.

Apply a clear balm to the lips. You can ensure that they look healthy and super-soft by using a clean, dry towel to buff them slightly, removing any dry skin. Once done, apply the balm again.

Now for the eyes – this is where the fun begins!

Prep the eye with Earth Spirits Eyeshadow in Pale Pebble.

Then, use Masterpiece Colour Precision Eyeshadow in Icicle Rose to line from the inner corners to a third of the way across the eye. Continue the line with a sweep of the same product in Stardust – a delightful blue shade. Finally wing out to the outer edges using Earth Spirits Eyeshadow in Ultra Aqua.

Line beneath the lower lashes with a sultry sweep of Earth Spirits Eyeshadow in Stormy blue.

Finish with two coats of Masterpiece Max Mascara and you’ll have rainbow eyes to go.