As the big day approaches there seems less and less reason to hold back on the sparkle. From sequined clothes to glitter nails, we are officially in shimmer season – and our make-up is no different!

For those of us with olive skin, the mere mention of pearlescent can evoke memories of noughties-style pearl liquid shimmer and still send shivers down the spine. And who can forget the metallic white, baby blue and pale pink eyeshadow that worked against our yellow and green undertones making skin appear ashen.

But, fear not. Pearlescent finishes now come in a range of hues and some of them can not only be worn if you have olive skin, they can actually enhance it too.

Ask the experts

We chatted to make-up artist Jessica Bass, who has recently worked on the new Tim Burton Wonka movie, “The key is to avoid cool, blue-based tones. So that’s anything that appears silver or grey. Instead look for a metallic shimmer that has a warm, golden undertone instead,” explains Jessica.  “This will work with olive skin to enhance the natural highlight, rather than work against it.”

Add a touch of highlight

When it comes to highlighters, Hourglass has a huge range of high-end highlighter powders that work for olive skin and can be built up to add a shimmer perfect for the festive season. Try Ambient Strobe Lighting Powder in Incadescent, £38  to achieve a much coveted glow.

Opt for the eyes instead

A brilliant way to bring this finish into your make-up look is by applying it to your eyes. But, before you reach for those ghostly pale tones work with your olive skin and pick a palette filled with bronze, peach and gold instead. Nars Unwrapped Mini Eyeshadow Palette in Laguna, £26, contains three metallic shades and three matte – ideal to take you through into 2022 when you might not be feeling the sparkle!

All in the pout

Want to add a touch of sumthing’ sumthin’ when you remove your mask? Then go for a lip gloss rather than a lipstick as it can be applied without a liner or any lip prep and its perfect for adding a touch of shimmer. Lipstick Queen Universe Lip Gloss in Meteor Shower, £20 this golden bronze metallic lip gloss is quite sheer so you won’t look like metal mouth but has enough pigment to really add a touch of glamour this party season. The warm golden hue will also work perfectly with your olive undertones. Pucker up!