It’s that time of year. The pallor of winter is starting to take its toll under the eyes, our neutrals are getting the best of us: it’s time for some spring colour! (Plus, with big nights like Ottawa Fashion Week and the Genies around the corner, there’s a good chance you’ll have some struttin’ to do.) If you’re in need of a pick-me-up, and one-stop-shopping is your bag, then head to Murale. Now with two locations in Ottawa, the mega makeup store offers nearly 50 different brands of cosmetics, fragrances, and skin care in a welcoming, try-it-yourself atmosphere. Remember, summer is *just* around the corner — might as well pick up some dermatologist-approved sunscreen to prepare.

The Look: clean and chic

Perfect for: a mini-makeover day with the girls

USP: plenty of events, like the Nars Spring 2011 launch (March 14-20) and Cover FX foundation clinics (March 10-13)

PLUS! PLUS! PLUS! In the coming weeks, OttawaMagazine.com will be expanding Shop Talk to include more event coverage, street style photography, product reviews, designer interviews, and more. In weekly doses, we’ll bring you the gushes and crushes (not to mention the lushes!) that are making waves in Ottawa style.

As always, we invite you into the discussion by contributing in the comments section below each post, following us on Twitter @ottawamag, or by contacting us at dayanti@stjosephmedia.com