A polyester article is made to appear lustrously metallic or pearlescent by the addition of polymethylpentene and non-metallic, non-pearlescent colorant; and optionally other functional additives. The colorant can be one or more pigments, one or more dyes, or combination thereof. A stretch blow molded plastic article, such as a bottle, using the polymethylpentene in the polyester can simulate the appearance of a metallic surface or a pearlescent luster even though non-metallic and non-pearlescent colorants are used.