This surprising colour is the hot new make-up shade for spring
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- Ava Welsing-Kitcher
- Published

Somewhere between marigold and mustard, the spectrum dubbed ‘Gen Z yellow’ – supposedly to match the zesty optimism of those born in the Nineties – is stealing the spotlight from the pale pinks that oversaturated your wardrobe, interiors and Instagram feed.
The beauty industry is already on board, with yellow starring lipstick bullets, eyeshadow palettes and nail polishes. It’s not the easiest shade to pull off, and the risk of entering Pikachu territory can be daunting.
Dip your (fingers and) toes into the trend with Stylist’s edit of the sunniest shades, and how to wear them…
Dolce & Gabbana Miss Sicily Lipstick in Gaetana
A slick of mascara and a natural base stops this bright shade from overwhelming. Olive skin tones should load up on bronzer.
£27, harrods.com
Sugarpill Cosmetics Pressed Eyeshadow in Buttercupcake
Swipe this matte shadow straight onto lids with your finger. A touch of eye glass on top will make it gleam.
£10, beautybay.com
YSL Vernis A Levres Primary Colour Edition in 53
YSL’s neon lip base coat works on its own or under another colour for a customised shade.
£27, yslbeauty.co.uk
Fenty Beauty Killawatt Freestyle Highlighter in Trophy Wife
The gilded yellow shines brightest on deeper complexions but it suits practically everyone.
£26, harveynichols.com
Mac Pigment in Rock-it Yellow
This loose powder is surprisingly versatile - mix with a drop of water for DIY liquid eyeliner, or pat it over almost-dry mascara for a flash of sunshine on lashes.
£16.50, maccosmetics.co.uk
Chanel Le Vernis Nail Colour in Giallo Napoli
Inspired by Naples, the hometown of Chanel’s make-up and colour director, add a matte topcoat for a chic and understated finish.
£22, chanel.com
Images: Lucky If Sharp / Getty