Spring offers metallic look for new makeup

NEW YORK -- Spring's most popular cosmetics colors will be bright and tropical with a metallic shimmer, according to makeup artists.

Eyes and lips make the boldest statement thanks to blue and lavender eyeshadows, and shimmery, berry-stained lip glosses, said Molly Nover, a beauty expert at Sephora.

The shades of spring makeup are sheer and the textures smooth, but the products can be layered for a bolder look, Nover said. Powders with a slight metallic sheen are easy to blend with other cosmetics for a natural-looking shimmer, Nover said.

Soft Focusing Lotion by Laboratoire Remede is a mixture of light-diffusing powders for the face that reflect light, according to Mara Stern of Bliss, a company that sells the line.

"Spring is all about light," she said, adding that the "glow" from the powder is subtle enough to complement the season's bright colors.

Lip gloss, which tends to wear off quickly, can be worn over a longer-lasting matte lipstick for an updated look, she said. Nover also suggested wearing gloss over a natural-looking lip stain when the goal is a more casual style.

Keri Blair, an Atlanta-based MAC makeup artist, said copper eyeshadows complement the turquoise and lavender "bursts of color" popular for spring makeup and fashion.

Cheek color should be toned-down because the eyes and lips will be highlighted. Nover suggests sticking to a tawny pink blush. Gel-based formulas are the most natural-looking, she said.

Sheer makeup can also work for a woman who wants the coverage that foundation offers but doesn't want everyone knowing that she's wearing foundation, Stern said.

The pretty, colorful makeup enhances the season's feminine ready-to-wear styles, which include embroidery, ruffles and layers of chiffon.

"The season's styles should always be complemented by your makeup," she said. "And that's certainly the case this season."

Hairstyles also should fit the mood, advises New York hairstylist Stephen Knoll.

"Uncomplicated hair is key. Give your hair thought but not a lot of effort."