Metallics rock: Captivated by shiny stuff

Going boldly in the way of metallic makeup allows for a fresh and fun look, if you do it well. Photo / Supplied

Give gleam a go for a glam winter look.

Nothing beats a bit of sparkle to pep up a dull day. In the same way that sequins are now no surprise when seen in daylight, so too metallic makeup. The trick is easy does it, so the look is fresh and fun rather than space-age alien.

Showy silver is fabulous on the runway, but a little harder to pull off when popping out to the supermarket, so stick with one bold colour with a metallic edge for a definite fashion edge or go for a softer touch with a sweep of shimmer in pearlescent tones. Delicate golds and pinks are the easiest to wear, but flecked teal or autumn's russet shades are standouts this season.

Metallics can be ageing, accentuating lines if the shiny stuff settles in, but that's no reason to steer away from them altogether, as used judiciously they can enliven you face. Try a little golden lip gloss dabbed on the middle of your bottom lip, or a subtle sweep of shimmer high on your cheekbones. The eyes, though, are undoubtedly where to make the most of metallics, so depending on your confidence and skin condition this could vary from a striking statement to something as simple as a little gleam on the lid or along the lashline. As well as powders, both loose and compact, gel liners and kohl pencils sometimes have metallic finishes, so look for these. If you normally restrict your eye makeup to beige and brown contouring colours, then mix in a little gold for the easiest update.

You'll find metallics in most makeup ranges, just check the textures you choose are fine enough not to look garish. Leave the glitter overload to teenagers, look for shimmer rather than razzle-dazzle sparkle. Same applies with nail colours - look for a foil-effect or a sophisticated soft shade where sparkle adds a fun twist.

To help make the most of metallics we asked New York-based national makeup stylist for Nars Cosmetics Janice Daoud for a few tips.

What is the best way to incorporate metallics into your makeup?

Through eyeshadow or eyeliners.

Can they be flattering for all ages?

Metallic shades of eyeliner are a good way to achieve the look for any age. Shades of gold, copper, navy, and purple metallics look good on everyone.

Any applications tips?

Keep the metallic shades under the bridge [socket] so all the attention is closest to your lashes for a subtle look. For an intense metallic look, wet shadow and apply.

What was your favourite metallic beauty look at the shows this season?

3.1 Phillip Lim. A silver geometric shape on the eyelid. Use a silver metallic shadow on lids for the same effect.

1. Nars Eyeshadow in Tropic $59

This silver-flecked teal is one of the more intense shades from Nars and is a long-wearing sheer formula with buildable colour. Nars also does some delectable pink champagne shades.

2. Orly Nail Lacquer in Emberstone $24.99

Reflective fiery orange shade with a smoother-feel finish than many glitters in a polish that won't disappoint.

3. Phoenix Eye Dust $42

This loose pigment powder is an intense gold, one of big range of shades, with glitters also available. Enterprising Phoenix Renata is expanding her reach from eight stores, opening her first Australian outlet in Launceston this month. The Aucklander has picked Tasmania's second city because, like the location of some of her regional outlets here, she thinks the market is ripe for some big city-style pampering, with her customised brow and makeup services.

4. Bobbi Brown Sparkle Eye Shadow in Sunlight $70

Pink, silvery white, grey and this soft gold, are new neutral pastel shades in Bobbi Brown's Brightening Nudes Collection which sees her creamy-soft powder shadows infused with pearl and glitter. A good place to start for mature metallics, including Shimmer Brick compacts.

5. M.A.C Extra Dimension Eye Shadow in Grand Galaxy $50

One of 10 prismatic colours in a fluid-feel powder from a limited edition collection that will only be around for a few more weeks. For other metallics check out M.A.C's regular Mineralize eye, blush and Skinfinish ranges. 6Sally Hansen Gem Crush Nail Color in Big Money. $12.99 You'll find few glitter polishes to rival the price of this one from a top-selling American brand. Gem Crush is new on the local market and comes in eight colours, from this subtle sandy number to intense jewel brights. (Available from next week.)

7. Yves Saint Laurent Rouge Pur Couture Golden Lustre Gloss in Rouge de Venise $59

Contains flecks of 24 carat gold for high-shine shimmer in a shade that will suit most skin tones. Scented with a hint of mango.

8. Stila Jewel Eye Shadow in Golden Topaz $50

One of eight glittery shades that can be applied wet or dry. Some of Stila's renowned Smudge Pots also gleam, but not as intensely as these discs of powder.

9. Stila Glitter Eyeliner in Kitten $42

This liquid liner mixes champagne, rose gold, bronze, gold and pink particles. Use to add oomph to an already outlined eye or just draw an intriguing fine line on a naked lid. Kitten is a signature Stila colour available also in facial shimmer powder duo ($62) and a gleaming Lip Glaze ($54).

10. M.A.C Extra Dimension Skinfinish in Glorify Copper $60

This gold-infused copper-coloured silky powder is the darkest of three Extra Dimension collection highlighters.

11. Estee Lauder Pure Colour in Cyber Teal $59

Strong metallic shine when applied wet, or a more sheer finish when the gel-powder is brushed on dry. There's a matching eye pencil and mascara.

12. Revlon Luxurious Color Diamond Lust Eye Shadow in Celestial Silver $23.50

This silver combines well with Plum Galaxy, another of the high-sparkle shadows for moody eyes.

13. Napoleon Perdis Luminous Lip Veil in Gossamer Wings $34

Highly reflective shine that also licks lips with conditioning aloe vera. Lychee-flavoured brush-on also on comes in other colours.

14. Ellis Faas Eyelights in Green Gold $67

This iridescent pen can be applied alone or worn over other colour as a highlighter. Other gilded shade selections include silver, bronze, lilac or bordeaux.

15. Napoleon Perdis Creme de la Creme Eyeshadow in Quick Silver $41

Smooth on a little lid bling in one of those shades that goes with everything.

Stockists: Nars, Stila and Elllis Faas from Mecca Cosmetica stores or see online. Revlon and Sally Hansen from Farmers and selected pharmacies. Napoleon Perdis exclusive to Famers. Estee Lauder and Yves Saint Laurent: selected department stores and pharmacies. M.A.C from Smith & Caughey's and M.A.C St Lukes, Botany Town Centre and Britomart. Phoenix: for stores and online.

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