The single effect

by Sarah Hankins

With my trend-spotting radar on, I hit the streets in search of the latest looks in beauty and this spring, it’s all about colour.  From bright pink to purple and blue, the hottest makeup colours are inspired by rich, saturated garden hues. The key to wearing these bright colours is to enhance a single feature, like your eyes or lips.

First, a natural base is the way to go.  Keep things fresh by wearing a primer alone or combining it with a light foundation. Finish with a bronzer to amplify your natural glow.

Next, if you’re playing up the eyes, look for a palette of at least three shades for a smoky eye or brush on a single colour to create an eye-popping effect. Try: Shu Uemura Pressed Eye Shadow (shown, $26, 866-465-8736) in “ME Blue 650.” Go subtle on the lips, with a nude lipstick or a sheer lipgloss. I love L’Oréal Paris Colour Riche Lipstick ($11, at drugstores) in “Nude.”

Enhancing the lips? Brightly pigmented shades like tangerine, coral, and pink make a bold statement.  Try: Dior Addict High Shine Lipcolor ($31, at department stores) in “Orange Ovation/Spotlight Coral.” Find your perfect hue and then keep the eyes simple with a swipe of mascara. 

Photography by Angie Martin.

More Beauty & Grooming