How do you stay polished-looking for the office in a heatwave? That's a question I posed to Lora Spiga, Official Makeup Artist for Lancôme Canada. And, when it comes to makeup, summertime inspires a little bit more playfulness with colour. So, what's a surefire update for this summer?--I asked her that too. (In a nutshell: Coral on the nails and turquoise on the eyes.)

"The nice thing about summer looks is that the trend is soft 'transparent' makeup," says Spiga. "The rule to keep in mind with lip gloss or lipstick is to choose something that complements your skin's undertone." If you have a warm undertone, choose warm liptones (oranges and corals), she says, "and if you have cooler undertones, try lip colour with more blue undertones like pinks and raspberries."

Any meltproof makeup tips?
"Whether you want volume or definition, waterproof mascara is the way to go. Not only does it keep mascara from melting away, but it also keeps lashes perky and lifted."
"If using eyeshadow, Aquatique eyeshadow base is a must. Apply it before your shadow--it will keep it on all day and brighten your eyeshadow colour."
"Use waterbased foundation formulas that offer all-day wear. Teint Idole foundation, Ultra or Fresh Wear, are amazing choices."

What's your favourite summer makeup look right now?
"My fave is a soft wash of colour on the lids, either a light highlighting shade, or a medium toned pop of colour, lightly tapped on the lid. Plus, one or two coats of mascara, a radiant, perfected complexion with foundation and a touch of bronzer, and a bright glossy lip colour to really add that feminine touch."

What's a hot colour for eyes this summer?
"The star colour this summer is turquoise eyeshadow or eyeliner. It's fitting on everyone. Try Molten Shore eyeshadow palette. For the more daring and trendy, Artliner eyeliner in Beach Gem."

Do you have a favourite lipstick shade this season?
"L'Absolu Nu in Rouge Nu." (It's a transparent bright red that gives lips a "bitten" look.)

And, of course--nails! Favourite shade?
"Anything coral. I recently saw a colleague with the most beautiful summer colour on her toes--Meet Me At Sunset by Essie. So beautiful."