Much to my makeup artist spirit's delight, everyone is officially open to color this spring. As a matter of fact, they are actually craving it. Women, as well as girls, do not flinch at the use of the word "bright", or the suggestion of trying a pink lipstick, or red for that matter. On the contrary, their eyes light up at the suggestion of more color, no matter what the category of their makeup; eye shadow (even if its blue), blush, or lipstick.


Over the past 12 years, the idea of color has been an uber sensitive subject. For instance, teenage girls would never consider wearing lipstick! As a matter of fact, I never even asked them if they wanted it knowing their answer would be a really nervous "no" while trying to be nice. Deep inside they really might want to say, "No way!" It was a serious step for them to wear lip gloss with a hint of tone (being one step beyond clear). To their color-sensitive eyes, that "hint" would be considered bright!


As for women, they would always preface their makeup sessions with the declaration that they wanted new colors, "but nothing too bright of course." Their fear of looking "too made up" has slowly but surely been replaced by a refreshing open mindedness. Whether women study fashion or not, they seem to know color is "in."


I confess that I relate to all of their feelings about color, because there is nothing worse than too much of it. My love for color on the face has always had a couple of important conditions: I only love it, if it's translucent, which gives the appearance of light reflecting or shining through it. The other condition is that the shade (referring to any category of makeup; lips, eyes, cheeks, or complexion) is somewhat difficult to describe once it is on the skin and worn within a finished makeup design.


My new bright colors this spring fit this exact criteria. For example, Pink Dawn blush is a bright but soft pink. It could also be described as slightly coral depending on the lipstick that is worn in concert. It has the ability to change depending on what surrounds it and the coloring of the person wearing it.

If these two criteria are not met, then all you see is the makeup and not the person. It looks artificial and possibly even harsh. Even my wonderful shade of lipstick called "Red", evokes a sense of light glowing through it which makes the lips appear rounded. This shade has qualities that are difficult to describe, yet its beautiful effects are obvious. I mention "Red" because it is the quintessential bright that can be harsh in a hurry and takes courage and attitude to wear. "Prosperity" lipstick is also an amazing shade that is bright but glows. It leans pinker than "Red" and is looking beautiful on all types of coloring.


The study, and particularly the psychology, of what makes color appear natural on the face still excites me. Always remember I empathize with you and all that you need and want your face to be and represent. It's the only face we have and there is not another one like it. Let's remember to give it our loving attention.