The warmth here, the days are longer, and the beach is calling our names…that can only mean one thing: summer is upon us. And with summer comes the opportunity to find new and exciting ways to look our hottest; on the beach, at our summer internship/new jobs, and on those crazy nights out. So here are the main cosmetics trends to brighten up your summer and your face.

SKIN:

Matte Foundation and Powder: Matte, natural looking skin is the way to go this summer, allowing the bright colors we’re seeing pop up the opportunity to really stand out.

EYES:

White Eyeshadows/Liners: Seen all over the Spring/Summer runways, this is a great way to brighten up your eyes, while also giving an edgy look.

Smoky Eyes: The ever-popular smoky eye is back, but this season black takes a backseat and gold, bronze and dark browns are the way to go to pull off that sultry look while adding a summertime glow.

Bright Eyeshadows/Liners: Bright purples, blues and greens are popular choices for this season, but any brightly colored pencil or liner is a great way to add a pop of color to a neutral outfit, just be sure to pick out a color that plays up your eyes.

Navy Eyeliner: According to make-up artist Chrisanne Davis, navy is the strongest color of the summer. It looks fabulous on pretty much anyone, is dramatic without being overdone, and looks great with the gold that’s so popular right now.

LIPS:

Nude Lips: Going naked (on your lips that is) is important when you’re doing the bright eye colors or the smoky eyes, so as not to have your lips outshine the rest of your face.

Neon Lips: Extremely bright lips are also a fun way to add some pizazz to your look whether it’s a bright pink, red or orange/coral.

CHEEKS:

Pink Blush: Pink blush is the best route to take on your cheeks this summer, though the traditional shimmery bronzer can lighten up your face, pink is a fun and feminine way to highlight your cheekbones.

As for those days on the beach, Ms. Davis says the best way to go is either a light application of bronze eyeliner or brown mascara along the top lashes only, making sure to use waterproof everything. And, along with that sunscreen, the best thing to put on at the beach is a lip gloss in a bright, juicy hue like peach, watermelon, or cherry.

Summer is a season of fun, so have fun, play off your best assets, and put even more sizzle into your summer.