Get your glow on with coral makeup for summer

There’s something inherently summery about the color coral. It’s like the cheerful, lighter, funkier sister of fall’s deep reds. Plus, this beachy color pairs great with other summer hues, like pastels, white and the classic blue and white nautical look.

But don’t call your Great Aunt Thema for advice on modern takes on the color (even if coral lipstick is her go-to, as it is for many of our “greats”). As your auntie may have demonstrated, it’s pretty easy to do coral pretty wrong.

Lucky for you, today there are countless shades of coral, suitable for every skin tone. Here’s how to pick the right one for you in 2015.

Your skin tone still matters

Just like picking out your powder or choosing your eyeshadow combo, you still need to match coral with your complexion, even if it’s not your regular style. Many corals tend to pull warm, which can make them tricky for cooler, blue-ish skin. If you’re cool-skinned, look for coral with pink undertones instead of orange or warm red. This pink-ish lipstick is surprisingly stunning for cooler skin tones for such an inexpensive price. Revlon Lovers Coral, $4.97, walmart.com

When it doubt, tone it down

If you’re unsure, gravitate toward neutral tones or subtler options. For example, instead of lipstick, try this product that goes on more like a gloss. The shine and gloss tone down the dramatic shade. Two Faced Melted Liquified Lipstick in Coral, $21, ulta.com

Keep it simple

Do not coral-ify your entire face and wardrobe. Make this bold color your accent that plays off other complementary colors. Coral lips tend to be easiest to pull off, although you can also find coral eye shadow like this high-pigment shadow that does not need much to make a huge pop. Just lightly dust it over your lid–and expect it to stay put. Hence the name. Make Up Forever Artist Shadow in Coral, $21, sephora.com

Twinkle your toes

It’s fun to have daring nails in summer, and it’s less important that they match your skin tone. So, if you want that bright orange glow, let it show on your toes. We are in love with this pretty polish. Cirque Color Bright Coral Cream nail polish, $13, nordstrom.com