Beauty boss: Hot metal! The shimmer and shine of the season’s must-have shades

Metallics are having a moment, according to beauty expert Charlotte Knight.

Founder and CEO of Ciate London, Lottie London and Skin Proud, Knight says sparkling shadows and glitter make-up were a big trend on the spring/summer catwalks and, as a little sparkle goes a long way, it’s an easy way to elevate your look for daytime and night.

She said: “Acne Studios, Etro and Tom Ford all showcased stunning metallic or glitter looks across eyes, lips and body. These big statements, and what we’ve seen gracing our screens on the likes of Euphoria this year, will see us all trying to recreate the looks at home.”

Here, Knight and Melanie Barrese, head make-up artist for Illamasqua, share how to add some shimmer and shine to your look.

Subtle shine

For a delicate look, Knight recommends adding a pop of glitter to your eyeshadow using a pigmented palette.

“You could also take the eyeshadow lightly across the lips to give an extra touch of magic,” she explained.

For Barrese, sparkle is a great way to add texture: “I love to add some glitter to the centre of the eye (near the tear duct), in a similar colour to the rest of the eye make-up. Even if the rest of the make-up is matte, the eyes get a beautiful sparkle and added dimension. Choosing a shade similar to highlighter, lightly dust over your cheekbones and the apples of your cheeks for an amped, strobed skin look.”

Melanie Barrese, head make-up artist for Illamasqua

Precise application

When working with glitter, Barrese recommends using a flat, small brush, ensuring you’ve shaken off any excess, and using patting motions to apply to the skin.

She also advises applying foundation and under-eye concealer as your last step, “So you can wipe away any dropped glitter, ensuring your application is clean”.

Choosing colour

Not sure what shade will work for you? Barrese said: “The shade is up to you, but if you’re really unsure, a colour a few shades lighter than your skin tone will give your eyes some sparkle and open up the face.”

Have fun

“For something more playful, you can also place glitter in more non-conventional areas around the eye, such as above the crease of the eye, on the outer corner, and along the lower lash line,” Barrese continued.

Knight added: “Another really wearable look is by adding a touch of metallic to your natural freckles – to enhance your natural beauty, and give off catwalk vibes.”