Style : Looks : That Face

THIS SEASON, THE FRESHEST LOOK in makeup is rooted in the return of color. Not the wild, sock-it-to-me shades of the ‘60s but the subtle hues of nature that bring last year’s “barely there” neutrals to radiant life.

This updated palette features an array of soft pinks, corals, blues and lavenders. Earth tones remain popular, but now colors straight from the garden enhance browns, beiges and grays.

Eyes, in particular, reflect the move toward more visible makeup. They are well-defined by liner that extends slightly past the outside corners of the eye. Lids get noticed when they are swept with the muted shades of grass and sky. Most of the latest powders and creams come in a rich matte finish, but a few contain just a hint of sparkle to catch the light.

Stronger color has made a comeback on cheeks as well. Deeper tones have given way to pale roses and peaches, which are most flattering when applied sparingly on the apples of the cheeks. Simulating a natural blush has taken the place of “sculpting” bone structure.

Lips look their most tempting in hues borrowed from flowers and fruits. To complement the healthy glow on cheeks, sheer and creamy lip colors inspired by geraniums, periwinkles, melons and berries are ideal. And nails, worn slightly shorter and rounder than in the past, are polished with delicate unfrosted shades to underscore the light touch.

In short, the trick to using color this spring isn’t looking made-up. It’s simply doing what comes naturally.

Hair and makeup: Max McBeth/ Celestine; stylist: Sara Nuckolls/ Celestine; models: Mayumi/ Bordeaux, Louisa Maccan/ Fontaine; accessories: Harriet Selwyn taffeta wrap top/ Madeleine Gallay, Sunset Plaza, Michael Dawkins faux-pearl earrings/ Michael Dawkins, Sunset Plaza, Van Buren blouse/ Ai-lin Huang Showroom, Los Angeles