TrendLife Beauty

With the onset of cold, dark winter mornings upon us, the mere thought of the changing of the seasons sends shivers down my spine; I look upon this time of year with a sense of utter dread. Not one to feel the chill, arising before dawn compels me to apply my make-up in artificial light; and thus my intentions of looking like a flush-faced filly are superseded by an artistic display of Dynasty-esque make-up upon my visage. Yet, A/W 2011 is set to see a significant milestone in my aspirations for a rosy complexion. Revlon’s No. 16 Pink Powder Blush is a trusty powder that requires a couple of strokes on the apple of the cheeks to create a pretty in pink sheen without reliance of daylight. Soft and polished, it is an absolute essential for creating healthy flushed cheeks in an instant for that all important winter boost. Flattering, and without the dreaded tell-tale shine, it also leaves an overtly natural look which works well on both foundation-based and au natural skin. Long-lasting and offering a flawless and glowing professional look, this is one for the handbag for girls on the go to achieve a beautiful, streak-free burst of colour.

£3.50

www.yuyubeaute.com

I have always been a sucker for a red lip. Come day or night, my shade of choice has been a loyal friend to me for years. By my side and through the ups and downs of the CBL life roller coaster seated right beside me, bright red lippy has been a girl's best friend. Having oozed classic chic for formal daywear and added high voltage vamp to a night out on the tiles, I thought her and I would be lifelong partners. Sadly for the queen of my heart; a new man has entered my life and disrupted the eternity that me, myself and red lippy were set to share. Locking lips with my fella left him with a rouge face paint, of which understandably, he was not a fan. I found myself in a state of moral dilemma; it was one or the other. Or so I thought.

Once again, Aphrodite worked her magic and combined her godly forces of love and beauty in a stupendous fashion; she had granted me with a man AND Benetint!

A rose tinted lip and cheek stain, Benetint is a kiss-proof (hallelujah!) flush which last for hours on end and with just a few dabs needed on the cheek and lip, its a lovely, easy little number to apply. It's also naturally sheer and suits all complexions. Being a girl on the go, I have been known to hop aboard the train into London town in rush hour with war paint. Having forgotten to rub in the dots on the apples of my cheeks, I've been the recipient of worried glances from my fellow commuters. Besides this terrible crime, Benetint has worked wonders for my cheeks, lips and most importantly, my love life. An absolute must for its multi-purpose nature, this is one lip-tastic treat for men and women alike.  

£24.50

www.benefitcosmetics.co.uk

One of the new favourite products to launch last year is NARS Illuminator in Orgasm.

This gorgeous bright peachy coloured light-reflecting liquid glides easily onto the skin.

It’s perfect for creating a shimmery glow and adding luminosity to the skin when used either on bare skin or over make-up.

£21.50

www.narscosmetics.co.uk

The one thing I love most about summer is that with a hint of a tan I don’t need to wear nearly as much make-up which simplifies my morning beauty routine.

Just a little bit of concealer, mascara and then some blush. Becca Beach Tint is perfect for summer.

It comes in a range of wearable shades. It’s water-resistant, streak-free, non-greasy and non-drying, and just needs to be blended with your fingertips.

It’s a great holiday buy as it instantly revives your complexion and stays put even while at the beach.

Price: £19.00

Available from www.Zuneta.com

For a feminine look that is perfect for spring, YSL's new colour palette is a combination of soft pearly blush to a modern bright pink available in lipstick, highlighter crème blush and eyeshadows.

The inspiration for the collection is passion and sensuality for the wild bohemian within you. The star product of the new collection is the highlighting powder called Pink Celebration.

These beautifully packaged products are such a treat and are definitely on my wishlist for my make-up bag.

Prices start from £22

Available from most department store beauty counters or online at House of Fraser www.houseoffraser.co.uk

I discovered an innovative new way to apply blush in the form of Givenchy’s new Blush Gelee.

This gorgeous blush is a lightweight cool gel that is dispensed through a sponge that you can simply dot onto your cheeks and blend for a bright pop of colour.

This is such a handy and convenient way to apply blush and brilliant for keeping in your handbag for use on the go.

Try it in Candide Pink for a pretty flush of colour.

Price: £23

Available from Debenhams www.debenhams.com