Process for forming decorative paint film exhibiting metallic effect

A decorative paint film forming process includes the steps of applying a base paint, including a glossy substance, to form a base paint film, and applying a decorative paint on a surface of the base paint film to form a decorative layer having a thickness of less than a hiding thickness. Alternatively, a clear paint can be applied on the base paint film to form a clear paint film, and the decorative layer can be formed on the clear paint film. The resulting decorative paint film involves a noble decoration in which a metallic effect is superimposed on the hues of the decorative layer.