Golden Summer: Beauty Trends That Shimmer and Shine

Ah, summertime. If ever there was a time of year for all things that glitter and shimmer, this is it. You've already got a goddess glow from all that time you've (safely!) spent in the sun, so why not complement that gorgeous skin of yours with our favorite metallic--classic gold. It's an unexpected shade for nails and eye makeup, and we've got the best ways to wear it!

All over shimmer - With "The Great Gatsby" coming out, we've all caught a touch of flapper fever. "Shameless" star Emmy Rossum is no different. Copy her '20s-esque makeup look with a wash of shimmery gold eyeshadow from lash line to brow bone. Keep a light touch when it comes to your eyeliner and mascara (or skip the liner altogether), and opt for a dainty pink pout to add a touch of color. Now you've got a look that Daisy Buchanan herself would envy.

Molten eyes - Do like Taylor Swift and add a new level of smoulder to a smoky eye with golden highlights. A swipe of gold liner along the lower lash line makes any eye color pop. We recommend balancing the sultry metallic below with a thick, black line along the upper lash line and piling on the mascara--but keep your lips neutral. You don't want anything distracting from your fierce eye makeup!

24K nails - No, British singer Rita Ora's nail polish is not made out of actual 24K gold (to our knowledge--but let's not put anything past stars these days). This hue is a yellowy gold that looks great on any girl with warm skin tones. We love the amber-gold tone of Dolce & Gabbana's Nail Lacquer in Desert--it's an opaque formula with just the right amount of shimmer. You're only two coats away from all your friends hounding you about what shade your rocking!


Gold rush - Test drive Selena Gomez's sparkly mani the next time you hit the salon, or DIY with COVERGIRL's Outlast Stay Brilliant Nail Gloss in Golden Opportunity. The colder-toned, almost silvery gold color has all the punch and summery appeal of other gold polishes, but with the added bonus of a stay-put, high gloss formula that needs no top coat! If you want an extra layer of sparkle, though, you can always layer your favorite gold glitter polish over it.

But if you're only looking to dip a toe in these trendy waters, get a touch of gold by sweeping a bit of metallic highlighter (light gold eyeshadow applied with a small blush brush works great in a pinch) just above your cheekbones for an illuminating and dewy finish. It might sound crazy, but it will make your skin look positively glowing!

Will you be trying this golden trend this season? Tell us in the comments and be sure to check in with The Thread all season long for summer tips and tricks. For more, be sure to check out our Twitter and Facebook page!