On the face: Think of using gold to add light, not color. Bobbi Brown’s Shimmer Brick Compact in Beige ($38; bobbibrowncosmetics.com) does the job brilliantly with five subtly sparkling shades meant to be worn together. Simply sweep a fluffy, broad brush across the compact and dust lightly on the cheeks. It looks even better worn over a gorgeous peachy blush like Maybelline Mineral Power Naturally Luminous Blush in True Peach ($9.49; walgreens.com). Complete the look with a near-naked eye (think bronzy pinks, slightly coppery browns) and a flush of coral on the lips—we love Trish McEvoy Beauty Booster SPF 15 Gloss in Sexy Peach ($25; nordstrom.com).
On the eyes: Try creating a smoky eye with a palette of neutrals ranging from champagne beige and shimmering gold to rich brown. Lorac Starry Eyed Baked Eye Shadow Trio in Superstar ($24; loraccosmetics.com) has all the right colors and can be applied dry for a natural daytime look or wet for a more dramatic statement (perfect for postwork cocktails). You can also add a small pop of color—turquoise like M.A.C Shadow Paint Pot in Delft ($16.50; maccosmetics.com) is stunning—to the outer edge of the lash line. Keep the rest of the face subdued with a rosy hue on the cheek—try Cover Girl Cheekers Blush in Classic Pink 110 ($3.59; drugstore.com) —and a glossy nude lip like Stila Silk Shimmer Gloss in Kitten ($22; stilacosmetics.com).
On the lips: For the reticent, this is an easy, fairly noncommittal way to experiment with a trend. Try layering a barely-there gold gloss like Smashbox Hybrid 2 in 1 Color & Shine Lip Gloss in Marigold ($19; smashbox.com) over your favorite sheer lip color (think a peony pink or a citrusy coral) to add a touch of iridescence and glamour. Pair it with a neutral eye (sandy taupes, gingery browns) and a hint of bronzer and you’re all set.
