Fair Skin Make Up

I recently watched The Curious Case of Benjamin Button and was completely mesmerised by the beautiful Cate Blanchett from start to finish (bear in mind Brad Pitt is in that movie so, that's really saying something). Her red hair, blue eyes and porcelain skin was absolutely breathtaking. It made me think what make up and colours work best on fair skin and pale eyes. So, here are a few tips and tricks if you want to make pale even more interesting.

Make eyes pop

If you have blue or green eyes a good tip is to use bronzer or even blusher (gasp!) in the crease to add warmth and accentuate eye colour in a very natural way. Adding colour to the crease will add depth and definition to the eyes, resulting in a more flattering eye shape. Take a small, fluffy blending brush, like a MAC 224 for instance, swirl it in whatever blusher or bronzer you are using, apply in wind-shield wiper motions to the crease of the eye and keep buffing until fully blended. Another way to make eyes more striking is to add a warm brown eye liner. A personal favourite is the Urban Decay 24/7 Glide On Eye Pencil in Whisky. It's very long-lasting and, because it's a reddish brown, it contrasts with my blue eyes and really makes them stand out.

Beware of the bronze

Be very careful of bronzers and, if unsure, avoid them altogether as most bronzers on the market are far too warm for very pale skins and, if over-applied, can look very muddy. If you want to add colour, try using a cream bronzer as a base. The Bourjois Bronzing Primer or the Chanel Soleil Tan de Chanel Bronzer Universel, for example, are great used underneath foundation. Apply on the high points of the face (forehead, cheek, jawline) not forgetting to bring it down slightly on the neck so everything blends in nicely. This will warm up the complexion in the most subtle and natural way possible without leaving a brown streak across your cheeks.

Add a health flush

It's especially important for fair skins to add a pop of colour to the cheeks to avoid looking dead drained. For a natural flush use a cream formula as they blend so easily and the finish is practically undetectable. If bronzer doesn't work for your skin tone, use a warmer blush that has more of a bronze tone (a kind of blush/bronzer hybrid if you will) to kill two birds with one stone. I find it warms and brightens the face in one fell swoop.

The Bomber

This versatile piece is the perfect way to update your wardrobe for Spring. You won't have any difficulty finding the right one for you as they are absolutely everywhere this season. Whether it's embroidered, metallic or floral, the bomber comes in a range of colours, textures and designs. So, I decided to scavenge the internet to find my top picks from a few high-street stores.

Topshop

Topshop have a good selection of bomber jackets this season. They are mostly metallic with striped sleeves and embroidered front and back details, very Ryan Gosling in Drive.



After fashionista Olivia Polemero was spotted in this Japanese inspired jacket at London fashion week, it has been pretty much out of stock ever since. It's quite expensive for Topshop, but, bear in mind it is reversible so you're really getting two jackets for the price of one. From all the high-street collections I have to say this is hands down my favourite. It's daring, the embroidery is beautifully detailed and the colours go really well together. Chapeau Topshop.



Another that caught my eye, again from Topshop, is this sports luxe style bomber. I feel this is a little more casual than the previous and, therefore, more of a wearable, everyday option. It's also a little easier on the bank balance. This will look great paired with something simple like jeans and a plain t-shirt for lazy spring days.

ASOS

I have to admit ASOS didn't have as good a selection as other high-street stores and I feel like they kind of dropped the ball with most of their bomber jackets this season. Nevertheless, here are a few that I was particularly drawn to.



I like the colour and texture of this jacket and, again, it's very wearable. It's a metallic silver shade which will go with most outfits. It's simple, but, still ties in with this season's futuristic trend.



If you're looking for a bit more colour, opt for this Ralph Lauren number. I think if you're wearing this, team it with more muted colours like black, white or grey so that the jacket stands out and doesn't clash with the rest of your outfit. It's a bright, stand-out piece in itself that doesn't need dressing up.

Zara

I love the bomber jackets Zara have brought out this season. They are either quite casual and low-key or have very pretty floral patterns which are perfect for Spring.



This piece is modern and on trend this season yet still retains that classic Zara sophistication. As a huge lover of black, I think this would be ideal if, like me, you want to add some interesting pieces to your wardrobe so you don't look like you're off to a funeral everyday. For me, the soft floral design on the front and back adds a subtle brightness to my outfit without straying too far from my black uniform.



This jacket comes as part of a two piece set. I love how the pretty floral pattern contrasts with the sports luxe texture and striped sleeves. A nice, light jacket to throw on when it get's a little chilly.

Mango

Lastly Mango, my favourite high-street shop for new fashion trends at a decent price, have a decent selection of bomber jackets out at the moment.



I really like the simplicity of this piece. Again it's a sports luxe, causal style with striped sleeves and jersey fabric. I particularly love the black against the soft pink which makes this jacket a great transitional piece going into Spring. Au revoir Winter!

Skincare Faux Pas

Face Wipes

With the explosion of micellar waters and micellar gels onto the market in recent years I think it's becoming increasingly accepted that when it comes to make up removal, face wipes simply do not cut the mustard. Micellar waters are great ways to quickly and gently remove make up at the end of the day. My favourite micellar water is from Garnier as it's really affordable, you get a real bang for your buck, and it's gentle enough to use on the eyes. That said, micellar waters should only be thought of as the first step. Yes, they remove make up but they do not fully cleanse and nourish your skin. Once you've removed your make up, follow up with a cleanser to actually wash your face. I like balms and oil based cleansers as I feel they wash your skin without stripping it.

Foaming Cleansers

Often cheaper brands will target those suffering with oily/problematic skin, claiming that foaming gel cleansers eliminate excess oil and banish blemishes. This is absolute bull. Foaming cleansers strip your skin of all its natural oil and so your skin will react by producing even more oil. Don't be afraid of oil based cleansers even if you have oily skin. Using oil based products will actually help regulate your skin's natural oil production. Remember oil is good. It keeps skin hydrated, delays wrinkles and even provides a nice protective layer from the sun. Of course not all products that foam are bad for your skin, but, beware of those that target acne prone skin. Also, as a general rule, if a product contains alcohol, don't touch it with a barge poll. It will zap all goodness from the skin and give you that tight, stripped feeling.

Shower cleansing 

Although convenient, try to avoid washing your face under hot shower water. Yes, the skin on your body is tough enough to withstand hot temperatures, but. the skin on your face is much more fragile. If you really don't have the time, bring a face cloth into the shower with you then after you cleanse put the cloth under the water and wait till it's not piping hot before putting it onto your face.

Harsh scrubs

To remove dead skin cells try acid exfoliants as opposed to more abrasive exfoliators that damage and aggravate the skin. If you have acne prone skin you should definitely avoid exfoliating scrubs with large beads as they will only spread bacteria further. After using an acid exfoliator, whether it's a liquid exfoliant you use after cleansing or as a face mask or night treatment, skin will feel smoother and look brighter.

Face Rubbing

When drying your face after cleansing, never vigorously rub but pat dry by lightly pressing your face with a clean face cloth. This is just a little step you can do which is much more gentle for your face and will prevent reduce dreaded signs of ageing.

Rubbing downwards

When applying liquids or creams such as moisturiser to the face try to avoid rubbing downwards. Instead, rub upwards in smooth swiping motions, especially on your neck. Rubbing downwards will only aid gravity in its mission to make you look like a saggy granny.

Over plucking

I think if you were a teen in the 90s this will be a major sore spot for you. The barely-there-brow trend that started at the turn of the century is definitely to blame for many people's non-existent brows. Always pluck your brows in good lighting, preferably at a window so that finer hairs are more visible. Never pluck above your brow, too close to the start of the brow or too close to the arch. If unsure, leave it to a pro, your brows will thank you later.

Maybelline Color Tattoo

I really do love a good cream eye shadow. They are quick and easy to work with, are (usually) long wearing, and can be worn alone or as a base to enhance shadows. So, when a great affordable option is put on the market, I'm the first to get my paws on them. Maybelline color tattoos are available in a variety of shades including mattes and shimmers. I love these because they are cheap and just as good as high end alternatives. They are best applied with fingers to warm up the product and make it easier to work with. They give you just enough blending time before they set, after which they won't budge. These little pots will actually last you a hell of a long time as well. Anyway, enough gushing, here are a few of my favourite shades from the range.

My most loved/dented pot is the shade Creme De Rose. It's a creamy matte shade and, as the name would suggest, is a pink based nude that is the perfect everyday eyelid colour either as a base or on it's own. I'm very fair so this is a great shade for my skin tone which gives my eye a subtle and natural definition. Creme De Rose is an amazing dupe for the MAC Pro long Wear Paint Pot in Painterly which I used for years and since switching to the Maybelline I haven't been disappointed. There is a yellow based shade in the range which looks like a good match for the MAC Paint Pot in Soft Ochre. 

The most recent addition to my collection, and probably the most versatile, is Creamy Beige (another shade from the creamy matte line which was added to the range fairly recently). I pop this on when I want a slightly more defined and dramatic eye that is still wearable for daytime. Worn alone it really warms up my eye but not in an overpowering way. For a much more dramatic look I apply this shadow as a base for a matte brown smoky eye. It deepens any powder shadows I put on top and helps them to stay in place.

Metallic Pomegranate is a rich berry shade that I usually find myself reaching for in the Winter. Although it might seem a bit intimidating at first, once blended it's a very wearable and flattering shade. I would say this colour is much more appropriate for an evening look. It looks great paired simply with some black liner and tonnes of black mascara.

A much raved about product, the Color Tattoo in On and On Bronze really does live up to the hype. It's a gorgeous warm bronze shade that is universally flattering. That said, this colour will especially make blue or green eyes pop. I particularly love this cream shadow for doing a bronzed smoky eye. I take it all over the lid, buff it out, then take some down onto my bottom lash line for a more dramatic eye. It's really quick and easy to achieve an evening look with just this one product.

Disappointing Products

I would never be overly negative just for the sake of it, but, I wanted to dish the dirt on these products that let me down as they were particularly disappointing and I wouldn't want someone else to waste their money. Please note that these are brands that I truly love and, in a way, this post ironically is a testament to how much I put faith in their products. Sadly, they didn't work out for me this time.

L'Oréal Telescopic

I actually purchased L'Oréal Telescopic mascara after reading rave reviews online. I love mascaras that lengthen and volumise, but, most importantly they need to separate. Clumpy lashes, for me, is a major pet peeve. I don't think it's a good look. It makes you look like you have sparse areas and doesn't give your eyes enough definition. This mascara has potential to be very lengthening and I love how black it is, but, it meshes your lashes into one big, clumpy mess. I tried so hard to like this product, I even used it in conjunction with other mascaras to see if it would perform better, but, even my favourite mascaras couldn't rescue my lashes after using this. I think the problem lies in that the wand is too flexible and doesn't get a good enough grip on the eyelashes. If your looking for a good mascara from L'Oréal try the Volume Million Lashes mascara. It's a great all-rounder lengthening, lifting and separating mascara that I always come back to.

Bourjois Air Mat

I absolutely love Bourjois foundations. They are such high quality formulas at a very affordable price point (most likely because they are made in the same factory as very high end brands). Their Healthy Mix Foundation and Healthy Mix Serum are some of my favourite foundations of all time. For a lighter base I always use the 123 Perfect CC cream. It's moisturising, long wearing, has decent coverage yet somehow feels completely weightless on the skin. So, when the Air Mat foundation came out it didn't take long before I got my paws on it. In the Healthy Mix range I am the lightest shade (Vanilla), so, naturally, I picked up the lightest shade in the Air Mat (rose ivory). Now, I like a yellow based foundation, but, despite the shade name, it turned out to be quite a deep yellow that is way too dark for me. I was so disappointed with Bourjois because their shade range normally caters for people with really fair skin like myself, but, with this foundation their just isn't a shade that works for pale skin tones. In terms of wear time, coverage and texture the Air Mat is beautiful. It is quite comparable to the L'Oréal Infallible Matte in that respect, but not in shade range. I actually purchased the Infallible not long after trying out this one and found a shade that matched perfectly.

Disclaimer: just because these products did not work for me does not necessarily mean they will not be great for you. It's all about weighing up the pros and cons from other people then thinking about your own likes and dislikes as well as your own skin concerns.

Weekly Favourites

American Crime Story



The people responsible for the widely diverse and entertaining American Horror Story have turned their brains to famous crime cases starting with The People vs OJ which follows the highly publicised celebrity trial of OJ Simpson, accused of murdering his ex-wife. Robert Kardashian, played by Ross Geller David Schwimmer, became a household name during the trail as close friend and lawyer to 'The Juice' and thus the seeds of the Kardashian family fame were sown. However, for once the Kardashians take a back seat as the series focuses on OJ, played by Cuba Gooding, his team of high flying egotistical lawyers, one of whom is played by John Travolta, and the modest and slightly drab prosecuting lawyer Marcia Clark, played by Sarah Paulson. After binge-watching Making a Murderer I have to say this show has come at a very opportune moment and has filled that, albeit slightly disturbing, real-life murder mystery shaped hole on our screens.

Spring Forward

Moving on to something a little lighter (wouldn't be hard), Spring officially starts tomorrow (Sunday) which means longer, brighter days are ahead. Yay! Tis the season of fluffy bunnies and eating too many chocolate eggs! Yes, that's right, Easter is fast approaching and I, for one, am very excited. I cannot get over the sheer hilarity of this Easter card (yes, they're actually a thing) my mum sent me the other day. These Easter goodies including Easter chicks, nests, bunting, eggs and stickers can all be found at ASDA.

Cream Blush

In the Winter I usually stick to powder blush, but, for the Spring and Summer months a cream or liquid formula gives your skin so much radiance. It's perfect for that 'no make-up make-up' look, instantly perking up your face and giving a natural and healthy flush. Tints tend to stay put for longer as well, so work much better in hotter weather than powder. The best thing about cream or liquid blushers is that they suit any skin type and any age. My favourites are from Rimmel and Daniel Sandler.

Aluna George



I'm currently obsessed with this track by Aluna George I'm In Control ft. Popcaan. It has a pretty weird and wonderful video to check out too.

Blogger



And blogger of the week goes to (drum roll please)...Chriselle Lim! Fast becoming my favourite fashion blogger, Chriselle has a very sophisticated yet modern personal style. Her blog is packed with stunning home-decor and fashion photography. I particularly enjoyed her coverage of Paris Fashion Week this year and her beautiful photographs showing this season's top trends shot against a beautiful Parisian backdrop, very inspiring. If that wasn't enough, she also has a great youtube channel. Go watch.

Feelunique Beauty Haul

With Summer just around the corner, I decided it was time to bring in the big guns and make an order on feelunique - my favourite online beauty store. This haul features an oldie but a goodie as well as some skincare and make up essentials for warmer weather.

Sun Protection

For some time now I have been on the hunt for a day cream with a decent sunscreen factor that also doesn't leave my skin like a grease ball (I am so low maintenance, I know). I stumbled upon this one from Avène, a brand I already really admire. Their hydrating cream with SPF 20 is available in light for those of us who fall into the oil/combination category and rich for dryer skins. I have been using this for a week now and I am a huge fan. It has a beautiful, light texture that sinks in quickly, moisturises enough (for me anyhow) and leaves a matte/demi-matte finish. I feel now I've killed two birds with one stone so I can rest assured my skin is moisturised and protected from the sun everyday. In hot climates, however, when I know my skin will be exposed to the sun more, I will bump up the SPF and go for something like the Avène Very High Protection Cream SPF 50. Nonetheless, I'm pretty chuffed with this new discovery.

Lashes

I purchased Maybelline Lash Sensational a while ago and haven't been reaching for anything else since. I love how it gives tonnes of volume without clumping your lashes together. I buy the waterproof version because my lashes get easily weighed down by regular mascaras and end up falling flat. This definitely holds a curl really well, plus, I don't have to worry about any smudging. Like most mascaras currently on the market, however, it's certainly not without pitfalls. I find it dries out quite quickly which is rather frustrating, but, I guess that's just because it's waterproof and to be expected. I'll just have to let that one slide.

Flush

If you read my fresh Spring make up look you will know I am having a bit of a love affair with cream blushes. This watercolour blush in Cherub by Daniel Sandler is the perfect blush for a natural, healthy-looking flush of colour for that just-back-from-a-brisk-morning-walk look. Although the liquid formula looks intimidating, it is really easy and quick to use. Simply shake the dinky little bottle, pour about two drops onto the back of your hand then use a brush (I use the real techniques stippling brush) or even your fingers to dab it onto the cheeks. Et voilà! You've got pretty pink cheeks that will stay put all day. I'm now itching to try the other colours in the range.

Self-tan

Lastly, we have a safe and reliable way to bronze up your skin - the ever-evolving self-tanning cream. Caudalie is such a great brand for high quality skincare for all skin types, but, unlike it's French pharmacy counterparts, it has a sense of luxury about it. I really like the Clarins Liquid Bronze for the face, however, even on my pale skin I feel it is a bit too gradual. When I put a self tanner on my face I want to wake up and look like my head has been to the Bahamas for a week. It's worth noting that my skin is extremely sensitive especially to false tanners and I have endured some traumatic mornings, waking up and looking like the elephant man after taking an allergic reaction to a fake tanning product. Thankfully, when I used Caudalie Soleil Divine I had no such reaction and woke up with a natural and evenly bronzed complexion. It made my skin look so much better that the next day I even skipped foundation (gasp!) and just used concealer (I'm only human). I have to admit there is the dreaded self tan biscuity smell but I personally don't see the issue because it doesn't hang around for long and I'm asleep while it develops.

Before you go

 Avène is currently on offer at Boots and feelunique ships worldwide. Now I'm done.

Face Primers

Glow

Soap & Glory Hocus Focus

This primer from Soap & Glory is a little multi-tasking gem. Wear under foundation as an illuminating primer, mix a drop with your foundation for a subtle glow or use as a spot highlighter on cheek bones, cupids bow and bridge of the nose to add light to certain areas of the face. It has a pearl finish that blends so seamlessly to suit all skin tones. Gives a beautiful yet subtle glow, suitable for day or night. Perfect for lacklustre, tired skin. For more oomph try the Nars Copacabana liquid illuminator. 

Hydrate

Rimmel Lasting Finish Primer

I put this primer under the hydrating category, however, it is really a good all-rounder. I first discovered this when my skin was really dehydrated and it worked a trick. It leaves skin slightly tacky so make up adheres better and doesn't budge. On first squeeze it looks like quite a heavy consistency, but, fear not, it sinks in quickly and feels very comfortable on the skin.

Mattify

L'Oreal infallible

This primer is one for oily/combination skin types looking to mattify their skin and extend make up wear. Coming out of Winter my combination skin definitely needed something to combat make up breaking up on my t zone. To be honest, I was actually looking to avoid a silicone based primer. Although I don't particularly enjoy the slippy consistency, I can't deny how effective it is. It preps skin for smoother make up application that stays put for longer.

Bronze

Bourjois Bronzing Primer

This is one of my favourite make up products that, in my opinion, is rather underrated in the beauty blogging world. Again, it's a bit of a multi-tasker. I love using this as an all over base on days when I need to deepen my foundation shade rather than having to purchase another bottle. It can also be used to contour and bronze below or on top of make up. Plus, it smells so good I could happily live in this little pot.

Maybelline Lash Sensational

Before you roll your eyes at yet another Maybelline Lash Sensational review clogging up the internet, listen up cause this stuff really is good.

I read a few reviews before purchasing and the general consensus seems to be that this is primarily a volumising mascara. Personally, I tend to gravitate towards more lengthening and separating mascaras. I cannot stand the spidery lash look so I wasn’t all aboard this beauty band wagon just yet.

I always thought that you had to choose between a mascara that separates and elongates and one that gives volume and body. Turns out, I was wrong. Maybeline’s Lash Sensational does all of the above. It’s not clumpy yet still gives your lashes tones of oomph. Most importantly, I find it separates lashes making it look much more natural than most volumising mascaras.

I prefer the waterproof version because it holds a curl really well however, it is a bit of a pain to remove. I’ve actually had to try a few different waterproof eye make-up removers in order to find one that does the trick (Sephora and Garnier make good ones).

All in all I really love this mascara, especially for a more dramatic make up look that doesn’t end up a clumpy mess.

Sunday Interiors

The Eames Chair



Charles & Ray Eames were American designers whose love of abstract yet functional architecture and design is visible in their most iconic creation. The Eames moulded plastic and fibreglass armchair embodies the practical and playful synergy of this husband and wife design team. First showcased in 1948 at the Museum of Modern Art's Low-Cost Furniture Design Competition in New York, the design became hugely successful for it's modern, minimalist style. The piece is also commonly referred to as the Eiffel Plastic Armchair due to the shape of it's base.



The beauty of this simplistic design lies in it's versatility. The fibreglass shell can be combined with an assortment of bases to create different looks. The seat also comes in a variety of shades, perfect for adding a splash of colour to a workspace or dining area. What I love most about this chair is it's slimline design which is great if you don't have a lot of space to work with.

Where to buy

Despite the chair's original intended purpose as an affordable piece of interior design for the masses, quality and price tend to vary considerably. Cult Furniture and My Furniture both do great bargains whereas SwivelUK and Nest are much more on the pricey side. Given that the seat is made from plastic and the base is wood, this piece really shouldn't break the budget.

Face Masks

On the weekend we can afford to spend more time on our beauty regimes. So, I thought I would write about my favourite face masks in case you're looking for a little pampering.

Purify

Purifying Charcoal Mask by Quick Fix Facials

This is one of my favourite masks by a long shot and not just because it's affordable. A lot of clay based masks which claim to clear out pores, usually leave you with a face like a prune. This one, however, purifies in a very gentle and hydrating way. Every time I use this mask I see a difference in my skin. My pores look reduced (remember pores unfortunately can't disappear altogether) and my skin feels cleaner. Besides charcoal this mask is enriched with dragon fruit and cinnamon extract which, respectively, help moisturise and clarify. These ingredients also give the mask a distinct scent, both fruity and spicy, which I like.

Pink Clay Mask by Cattier Paris

An alternative clay mask is the Cattier Pink Clay Mask with Aloe Vera. It doesn't give as visible results as the Quick Fix but it is more gentle so ideal for very sensitive skins. I would say it is more soothing than deeply clarifying. Nevertheless it's a nice one to use and, as all clay based masks should be, it's cheap as chips.

Hydrate

Rose Hydrate Intense Moisture Mask, Superfacialist by Una Brennan

This is a lovely mask which gives skin a boost of hydration, plus it smells divine (if you like roses that is). It leaves skin moisturised and plump. When I use this in the mornings I find that my make up applies more smoothly and evenly. You only need 5 minutes with this on your face before you can rinse off. Great for when you're in a hurry.


Renew

Glycolactic Radiance Renewal Mask by REN

This mask has an unusual, thick consistency and on first use I didn't think it was going to be something I would enjoy but after seeing the effects, I was sold. It's been a long time since I have used tough exfoliating scrubs on my face as I found them too abrasive and damaging. The lactic, glycolic, tartaric and citric acids in this mask remove dirt and dead skin cells gently but effectively, leaving skin looking more healthy and radiant. I reach for this mask when my skin needs some de-congesting and brightening.

Weekly Favourites

1. Houzz

As a child there was nothing I loved more than flipping through the Argos catalogue planning my dream home from kitchen to bathroom. Well, finally I've found a more mature (and much lighter) equivalent. Houzz website is full of interior design goodness that will inspire and educate. Scan through an endless array of beautiful homes or read a variety of interesting articles for storage tips, renovation advice and decorating ideas. You can also make your own account, upload your own pictures or create an idea book for inspiration. Architectural porn.

2. Stripes

I don't know whether it's living in France or seeing longer, brighter days but I have been obsessed with striped tees lately. The simpler the better for a laid back look and a subtle nod to summer. Très chic and très easy.

3. Scent

I got a sample of Hermès Jardin de Monsieur Lee Eau de Toilette from Sephora and I fell so in love with it I found myself rationing every precious drop. It's a fresh citrus and aromatic fragrance for both men and women. A perfect scent for spring/summer as it's light and delicate. The jasmine and mint balance each other perfectly so the fragrance is not too floral or too green.

4. Song

Lush Life by Zara Larsson has got me desperately yearning for summer. Listen for feel-good, happy vibes.

5. YouTuber

Why has no one told about Sali Hughes In The Bathroom videos? In this youtube series Sali talks to a number of women with fascinating and inspirational stories. Learn about their life, career and passion for beauty AND get a sneak peek inside their actual bathrooms. These videos have been going on for a number of years, I am clearly very late to the bathroom party. Most recently Sali talked to Pearl Lowe who candidly opened up about her past and gave an insight into some of her most recent projects.

Fresh Spring Make Up

Base

In the Spring and Summer months sometimes it's nice to ditch heavy foundations in favour of a lighter base. Recently I've been using my normal day moisturiser and SPF then adding a touch of a tinted face gel. Having ghostly pale skin, most tinted gels on the market are way too dark but this Clinque Bronzing Gel Tint works perfectly on fair complexions. It has a natural bronzing effect that gives your skin a healthy glow. I can detect the slightest bit of shimmer in this product but even in natural day light it is undetectable. I also like the Bourjois CC cream for light and natural coverage. For those of you with problem areas whether they're dark circles, spots or hyper pigmentation fear not, ditching the foundation doesn't have to mean baring your blemishes. By spot concealing areas where you need more coverage you get a flawless base without looking cakey. I've recently been enjoying the Bourjois Radiance Reveal concealer. Even though it isn't the highest coverage I find it to be one of the most natural and hydrating concealers I've used. It has a light texture which makes it very comfortable to wear and great for touch ups during the day. Then there's the cult classic Collection Lasting Perfection Concealer, an obvious all rounder with good coverage at a great price.

Colour

Cream or liquid blushes are a great way of adding life back onto your face in the most natural way possible. This Rimmel liquid cheek tint in Sunkissed Cherry gives a very healthy flush of colour to the cheeks. I keep my eyes quite simple in the spring/summer months. A quick swipe of bronzer in the crease and lashings of mascara (preferably waterproof) are enough to define and shape your eyes. For brows, a quick swipe of Benefit Gimme Brow fills in sparse areas in a flash. For lips I opt for something hydrating and comfortable like the Elizabeth Arden 8 Hour Lip Protectant or for a hint of colour and shine the Clarins Instant Light Natural Lip Perfector (elaborate names, simple products). Revlon Color Burst balms are also nicely pigmented and comfortable on the lips.

Set

Recently I have been avoiding powders in an attempt to make my skin look more natural and radiant. If you want to set your base try MAC Fix + or  a cheaper alternative is The Body Shop Vitamin E Face Mist. Face sprays are a great way of giving your make up a much needed umph during the day. If you see your make up cracking or separating (particularly the tip of your nose where make up will tend to slip off first) give yourself a good spriz and you're all set.