Web Only: Key beauty trends

Feeling stuck in a rut? Need a makeup update? we provide the makeover magic. Words: Tracey Strange  Photography: Belinda Merrie.

FASHION AND BEAUTY trends tend to be less important as we age. Most of us develop a strong sense of our own personal style somewhere in our 30s and are much less likely to be influenced by the newest ‘looks’. But there is worth in keeping up to date with trends; even a scant nod to the new season can keep us from getting stuck in a rut. And it’s rare that a fashion-forward trend or product can’t be adapted to suit everyone, regardless of age. Here’s how...

Dark eyeliner The smoky eye never seems to go out of fashion but this season it gets a twist: the new smoky eye is less smudged and more sharply defined. The key is eyeliner (liquid or pencil), which is applied – or rimmed – around the whole eye. The effect is dramatic but can be difficult to wear since its harsher lines can make your eyes appear smaller. It’s biggest advantage, however, is that it’s less reliant on shadow, which can ‘travel’ and smudge into any fine lines or wrinkles. Experiment with a navy or brown liner first – it’s softer than black. Or, if you are wanting to amp up your makeup for a special event, try teaming silver shadow with black cream liner. Keep it modern by ensuring skin is matte and your hair isn’t too ‘done’.

False eyelashes Lash extensions – and noticeably fake false eyelashes – are all the rage. But if you don’t go for ‘faux’, you can achieve a similar effect with a double- or triple-coat of volumizing mascara.

Red lips Red lips are so classic they are almost iconic. But they are also a key trend for winter. If you are afraid of lipstick ‘bleed’, try a lipstick primer, or apply lip pencil after you applied lipstick rather than before. The wax in the pencil acts as ‘shield’ to keep the lipstick in. Alternatively, try a less obvious red – perhaps in a sheer formulation. You won’t get quite the same effect but you will still be current.

White shadow As Marilyn Monroe well understood, white shadow can be startlingly beautiful, especially when teamed with black liner. But white can be a difficult colour to pull off. If you think the look might be too harsh, experiment with a more subtle grey or peachy tone. The effect isn’t as intense but it is fresh looking.

Metallics Metallic shadows are very modern, and always add a touch of luxe to your makeup. Most of us can get away with wearing gold, silver, copper or bronze shadows but if you’re over 40 it’s always best to avoid using them as highlighters on the brow bone. As we age, the brow tends to droop; highlighting the area only serves to make us look puffy around the eyes.

Brown shadow It’s been absent from the catwalk for years on account that it’s been considered dull but brown shadow – especially when teamed with red lips – is news again. The key to keeping it modern is to use one shade of brown only. Matte is also highly fashionable.

Peacock shadows Bold shadows – anything from cobalt to fuchsia to lime green and even yellow – may be statement-making but they can also be very beautiful when applied properly. The best approach is to sweep them across the lid only – don’t go beyond the crease of the eye. And always team bright shadows with a muted lipstick.

Lacquered lips Thick, luscious-looking lacquer for the lips is a key autumn/winter beauty trend. New formulation lacquers contain far more pigment than normal gloss, which means the colour is more intense on the lips and far longer lasting. In fact, some of the new-generation lacquers will last as long as – if not longer – than your usual lipstick.