Summer is here and the colour and beauty it brings is not lost on award-winning makeup artist Rita Stirpe. Here, Vaughan’s top beauty expert shares some of her favourite picks for a season bursting with bright lights, long nights and unforgettable adventures

1. Inspired by Hawaii, this nail lacquer by Opi reminds us of long sunset walks by the beach, sipping mai tais. Appropriately named after the fruity cocktail, this soft hue simultaneously satisfies the need for nudes and pastels | www.opi.com

2. Argan oil, a.k.a. liquid gold, carries benefits that will leave your skin looking radiant and youthful. Who wouldn’t love the perfect skin achieved by Physicians Formula’s Ultra-Nourishing Argan Oil Blush? | www.physiciansformula.com

3. Revive your look throughout the day or during your morning routine. L’Occitane’s Pivoine Sublime Perfecting Mist will help your makeup stay on longer with the added bonus of keeping your face fresh all through the workday | ca.loccitane.com

4. A lip balm with colour brings the best of both worlds together. L’Occitane’s Pivoine Sublime Tinted Lip Balm is not only versatile, it also packs a punch of SPF 25 and up to eight hours of hydrating moisture | ca.loccitane.com

5. Heading out for a wine-tasting weekend and want to look your best? The creamy formula of Lise Watier’s Baiser Velours Velvet Liquid Lipstick in Fashion Kiss gives a matte finish and long-lasting wear so you can sip and savour without a care | www.lisewatier.com

About Rita Stirpe
From educating aspiring makeup artists to hosting her own show, Cosmetic Art, on Rogers TV, Vaughan-based makeup artist Rita Stirpe has been making the world a more beautiful place since the year 2000. In 2014, she was one of five top finalists for Makeup Artist of the Year at the Contessa Awards, and this year she made it to the finalist round for Makeup Artist of the Year at the prestigious Canadian Mirror Awards. Along with rouging the faces of celebrities and well-known personalities, Rita is also a top choice for local brides-to-be searching for expert makeup application on their big day.

@makeupartbyrita
www.makeupbyritastirpe.com