Cobalt blue liner at Anna Sui RTW fall 2012.

On a perfect fall day, the hues of changing leaves cascade from fiery red to bright orange to emerald green. Colour-infused branches stretch towards the deep blue sky and the crisp sun illuminates a rainbow of colours. Autumn is one of the most colour-rich times of the year and yet our makeup palette is often toned way down to soft neutral browns and deep plums. This year, fall makeup is taking its cue from the outdoors and adding a splash of brilliant tones onto fresh-faced complexions. Read how you can incorporate four exciting colours into your autumn look.

1. Cobalt blue
Often a scary colour associated with days gone by, this year cobalt blue is a main feature on fall faces. Swap your classic black liner for a modern bright blue and don’t be afraid to thicken the line or wing it out at the ends for more drama. Try COVERGIRL Liquilineblast in Blue Boom ($11).

 

2. Emerald green
Think of the allure of the peacock’s iridescent feathers and sweep a wash of this spectacular colour across your lids. It’s an exciting alternative to the grey or brown smokey eye and will add a touch of glamour, too! Dab M.A.C. Pigment in Kelly Green ($25) over a neutral brown like M.A.C. Eye Shadow in Club ($18).

 

3. Blood orange
Vibrant red and orange lips are so hot right now! Make a statement with a bold lip colour on a natural face and pair it with two coats of black mascara for a faultless fall look. Try Shiseido Lacquer Rouge in Blaze ($30).

 

 

4. Rosy red
As our summer glow fades it’s replaced with a flush from the brisk fall air. This is what inspired our autumn blush shades this year with fun, deep, reddish-pinks popping up on the fall/winter runways. Don’t be bashful when you apply Revlon Cream Blush in Berry Flirtatious ($14).

 

While I don’t recommend combining all of these colours into one look (unless you’re dressing up for Halloween), choose one bright pigment per day for a playful and eye-catching twist to your fall makeup.

Louise Griew is a Toronto-born makeup artist whose second home is Melbourne, Australia. Her work can be seen in national and international advertising campaigns, magazines, music videos and on TV.

 

Runway image: Frazer Harrison