So it may be the middle of summer, but smart beauty junkies are already practicising a natural, yet polished, look that's straight off the 2008 Autumn/Winter catwalks. Dubbed the 'super natural' look by makeup artists, Calvin Klein, Valentino and Stella McCartney all showcased glowing skin, with a natural-looking flush and minimum fuss.
It's all about enhancing your natural beauty, and not wearing makeup as a mask. Think clean, clear skin and illuminated features, such as sheer, nude lips, lightly mascara'd eyes and subtle creamy blush. Here's how to do it:
- FACE Make sure you look after your skin with a regular routine of cleansing, toning and moisturising, so you'll need a minimal base. Next use an illuminating mineral primer, such as Becca's, (£33). Then add a light but even layer of foundation. Try Max Factor Miracle Touch Foundation, (£11.95). Then dust with a layer of translucent powder.
- EYES Copy the Prada show where eyes were left almost bare. Just coat lashes once with brown or black mascara. If you want to add more glow, a few dots of Benefit's HighBeam, (£15.50) just below the brows will open up the eyes.
- CHEEKS At the Valentino shows, models had a healthy flush. Use a berry-coloured cream blusher like Bobbi Brown Pot Rouge, (£16).
- LIPS This look is all about a youthful insouciance. So keep lips nude with just a touch of sheer gloss. I like Max Factor Lipfinity, (£8.99), in shimmering pink and gleaming coral. The double-ended gloss colours can be layered for an ultra pretty effect.
Why does it take so much makeup to look natural? Surely a little concealer, mascara, blush and gloss would do the trick.