It started on the Spring/Summer 12 runway with Fendi playing up models’ eyes with sheets of metallic foil.

Both eye-catching silver and luxurious gold leaf were applied courtesy of key makeup artist Peter Phillips.

Over at DSquared2, gold metallic eye shadow was enhanced with glitter for an edgy rock ’n’ roll vibe and at Vivienne Westwood fuchsia lips were juxtaposed with gold shimmer applied to the centre of lips.

Hair was also adorned with precious metal on the runway.

At Krizia the simple bun/pony tail was elevated with gold leaf placed haphazardly over the hair.

And Topshop Unique created something aptly one-of-a-kind with hair slicked back and covered in gold paint.

So no wonder trend conscious and fashion-forward makeup brand Illamasqua has picked gold together with nude as the two main colours for this summer’s look Naked Strangers.

“It captures inner glows and depths. The deeply and darkly alluring exists alongside ethereal shimmering brilliance,” announces Alex Box, Illamasqua Creative Director.

Sephora and OPI have both taken the concept one step further. In a collaboration the two brands has created a top coat enriched with flecks of 18 Carat gold.

Expect a gold rush for summer 2012. © Cover Media