Silver Metallic Eyes
Metal toned eyeshadow has been one of the hottest trends so far in 2012 and for now it looks like it’s here to stay. Reflective washes of white silver light up the brow bone and add sparkle and dimension to the eyelid. It’s perfect for an evening or party look. You can even use it for a soft wash of color on your lids to help open your eyes. For a great tutorial on a look like this check out “Party Makeup: Metallic Smokey Eye”.
Cat Eyes
Pull out your eyeliner ladies because cat eyes are in full force. The familiar flick of liner has returned to the outer corner of the eyes but now with a twist. The double edged cat eye is widely popular. You can achieve this by adding an extra wing at the end of your liner, one for the top and one for the bottom for double the drama. Use color instead of sticking with the main stream black to add color and dimension to your eyes.
Sun Kissed Skin
In summer we start to crave the sun and the glow that comes along with it. Thanks to beauty manufactures, there are numerous ways to achieve that sun-kissed skin. Inspired by athletes who spend most of their time outdoors; “sporty-cheeks” are this year’s way to glow. You can mimic the effects of being in the sun by contouring parts of the face with a soft peach bronzer. Just remember, if you are going for the sun-kissed look to keep the eyes and lips natural.
Rose Colored Lips
Lipstick is back! Women are in lipstick heaven and choosing bright, flashy, eye-catching shades. For our porcelain or fair skinned girls, or for those who want a great lip but don’t feel comfortable in reds, then this is the way to go. Stick to the rose and pink shades but don’t be afraid to try a shade or two brighter than your normal one. The picture above is Marlena’s Glamorous Neutral Look featuring Makeup Geek’s “Delightful” lipstick teamed up with NYX’s “Smokey Look” Mega Shine Gloss.
Red Lips
Lipsticks most iconic shade is back! Don’t let this intimidate you though, with so many different shades on the market there is a perfect red lip for everyone regardless of your skin tone. If you have fair skin choose a coral-red shade, any other skin tone can go with a true red or blue based red tone to pamper their lips. For help we have several videos all about red lips, we recommend; “Top 5: Red Lipstick (how to choose your red lipstick)”, “Red Lips for Every Skin Color”, “How to Rock Red Lips”.
Mint Accents
This seems to be one of the hottest shades for summer this year. Whether you choose to wear it on your eyes, clothes or nails you are sure to be trendy with this color. This color also looks amazing with gold as an accent. On the runway mint was seen most as a “pop-of-color” or in color blocking. One of the biggest trends with mint is to have it on your nails. Photo curtesy imgfave.
Ombre Nails
Ombre hair has been everywhere this year and it looks like the nails are following close behind. And since you can mix and match colors the possibilities are endless. There are two variations of this, paint each nail a different shade of the same color to give your hand an Ombre look, and the gradient nail. With so many tutorials on YouTube you can recreate this look in no time. (Photo courtesy AcidTrix)
Tribal Nails
Tribal patterns are the hottest trend to hit the nail industry. Tribal design is a fashion print that has crossed the line onto nails. Whether you want a professional to do them, or create your own designs, the key to rocking this latest trend is to pick a design that compliments your natural style. For those who like things a bit wilder, opt for bigger and brighter prints. If you are more subdued choose prints that are smaller and lighter in color. A great way to get these is to try a nail wrap. These can be found in an assortment of brands and patterns and are easy to apply. (photo courtesy Emily’s Nail Files )
Braids, Twists & Ponytails
All of these are an easy way to spice up your hairstyle. It’s fast and easy and perfect on a hot day or one of those infamous bad hair days. The ponytail is back and easy to do. Wear it low, or slick and damp to achieve this season’s look. Braids and twists get graceful makeovers this season. One of the most popular braids is the waterfall braid with its elegant and simple look. The key to any of these looks is to look like you have put your hair up without giving it much thought. If you’d like to see some of our recent braid tutorials, check out the Fishtail / Mermaid Braid, the Katniss Everdeen Braid, or the Curved Dutch Braid to Messy Bun tutorials.
Undone Waves
Beachy undone waves are always a summer favorite. (See Marlena’s Beachy Waves Hair Tutorial) This year’s trend is looser waves that makes the hair look like it was effortlessly done. The beach-ready style only requires a quick blow dry, subtle curl with the curling iron and raking your hands through your hair to create the right amount of “messiness”. Wear it parted on the side, or down the middle to give the barely-there curls your own style.
Colored Hair
It takes serious guts, or being a major celebrity, to pull off shockingly bright hair color. Stars like Nicki Minaj and Katy Perry are just a couple to change their locks to suit their mood. But you can add a touch of color to your hair without transforming all your hair. Try colors that compliment your skin tone. Fair skinned babes want to go with pastel shades like pale pink, lavender and baby blues. These colors also look great against blonde hair. If you have medium to darker skin tones, stick with jewel tones like emerald or deep purple. These also look great with darker haired girls. Try adding a streak or two in your hair, or buy an extension clip to try before committing to the shade.
Bangs
The bang is back, also known as fringe. Whether a deep side swept bang or a set of bangs all across your forehead, bangs are everywhere. Bangs are at their best when they are cut thick, blunt and long. They look remarkable with a bob, short crop or even long hair. If you are feeling a little adventurous you may even want to try the micro-bang. Where normal bangs should sweep the top of the eyebrows, a micro-bang is cut very short coming to the middle of the forehead or even a little above. Either way, the bang or fringe is a great way to give your hair a fresh updated look.
Bold Prints
So maybe pushing the boundaries of fashion isn’t for everyone, but if you love bright colors, bold graphics or flower prints then this is the season for you! Regardless if it’s stripes, tribal, abstract or floral, every print is in. If you decide to rock a bold print dress, keep the shoes neutral. A great print shirt looks great with a sleek pencil skirt or jeans. Just keep the accessories to a minimum; the focus should be on the print. Mixing patterns is a great way to show off your individuality and creativity, just remember to let your print be the star of the show.
Bold and Blingy Appliqués
From face lace that goes around the eye and across the forehead, blinged out phone cases, studded nails and shoes, bling is everywhere. Add a pop of bling in your wardrobe by wearing a pair of studded heels like the ones we see Kim Kardashian wearing. Add lace or rhinestones to your nails with nail wraps or by a professional. With so many different ways to add bling to your wardrobe the possibilities are endless.
Peplum Skirts & Dresses
Also known as “crumb-catchers”, these are popping up everywhere, especially Hollywood. In case you didn’t know, peplum refers to a ruffle around the waist which adds volume while creating an hourglass figure. From shirts, skirts and dresses this is one trend you can’t go wrong with. They are fabulous and flattering and romantic all at the same time.
And there you have it, your trends for the summer of 2012. From hair, makeup, nails and fashion it’s all here. This season it’s all about color, from shades of mint, to bold patterns it’s all here. Just remember, the key to pulling off any good look is confidence. Let your inner beauty shine and the rest of you will be just as beautiful!
