Bright Ideas – Adding a Pop of Colour to Your Summer Makeup Routine
Bright Ideas – Adding a Pop of Colour to Your Summer Makeup Routine
In my makeup lessons, I’m often asked how to add in a pop of colour to a makeup look, without it overpowering the look. When the sun comes out, so too does our want to freshen things up. And what better place to start than with your chosen makeup look?
Summer is the perfect excuse to experiment with colour – whether you’re a die-hard neutral fan or someone who already has a rainbow in their palette collection. This season is all about confidence, creativity, and letting your makeup reflect the joy and freedom that comes with longer days and lighter nights.
Let’s explore some easy, wearable ways to bring colour into your routine – no full-face artistry required!
1. Start Small: One Feature Focus
If you’re a bit shy about stepping out with bold colours, start with just one feature. A pop of turquoise in your waterline, a swipe of coral on the lips, or a brighter blush can transform a whole look with minimal effort. Keeping the rest of your makeup soft allows that colour to take centre stage without feeling overdone.
Top Tip: Try using a coloured eye pencil instead of black or brown – plum, forest green, or navy all feel fresh while still being flattering and subtle enough for everyday.
2. Switch Up Your Neutrals
Colour doesn’t always have to be loud. Swapping out cool-toned taupes for peachy tones, or trading your go-to nude lipstick for something with a bit more pink, orange or even berry can still feel “safe”, but seasonal. Think of it as a summer remix of your usual staples.
Top Tip: Peach, apricot, and rose gold tones add warmth and look beautiful in soft natural light - perfect for garden parties or golden hour selfies.
3. Gloss, Creams and Gels: The Summer Textures
Lightweight formulas like tints, balms and gels are a summer essential. Not only do they feel better in warm weather, but they also lend themselves beautifully to playful colour. A sheer fuchsia balm or a tinted orange gloss can give you a modern, effortless look without being high-maintenance.
Top Tip: Cream blushes and multi-sticks are brilliant for adding a wash of colour across cheeks, eyes and lips – especially if you’re heading off on holiday and packing light.
4. Experiment With Unexpected Shades
Summer gives you permission to play. Ever tried lilac eyeshadow? Or a pop of yellow in the inner corner of your eyes? These shades can look surprisingly flattering when paired with glowing skin and a bit of bronzer. Don’t be afraid to try something new – you might just discover your new favourite shade.
Top Tip: Try applying colour in a soft, blended wash rather than a bold block – it feels more modern and wearable, especially in natural daylight.
5. Balance is Key
The golden rule of adding colour? Balance. If you’re wearing a bold lip, go for a cleaner eye. If you’re experimenting with bright eyeshadow, let the rest of the face breathe. A little contrast keeps things polished and chic – and helps the colour pop even more.
Top Tip: If you’re ever unsure, step back and look at your whole face in natural light. The overall harmony matters more than the individual products.
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Adding colour to your summer routine doesn’t mean throwing out your staples – it’s about enhancing them. Makeup is a form of self-expression, and summer is the perfect time to express a lighter, brighter version of yourself.
Whether it’s a new eyeshadow palette, a fun coloured mascara, or just reaching for that lipstick you’ve been saving for a ‘special occasion’ – give it a go. Confidence is the most flattering thing you can wear.
And remember: there’s no right or wrong – just colour, creativity and a whole lot of fun.
I'd love to see how you’re embracing colour this summer – tag me in your looks over on Instagram (@jenhuntermakeup) or drop a comment below. Let’s inspire each other!
Jen x
