As a masive winter enthusiast, even I (Jem, Blog Editor – hello!) have to admit that I’m ready to wave goodbye to the grey days, rancorous cold winds and snow in favour of blue skies and warm spring air. Plus, I LOVE a spring clean, particularly for my makeup bag – I rarely dramatically rework my look, but I like to embrace dewier skin and experiment with fresh new colours and textures. Here’s how I’ll be updating my makeup bag for the new season…
GLOSSY & GLAZED BASE
As temperatures rise, the first change is always my base; opting for a lighter, more sheer complexion to ensure the sun hits all the right places. I’ve been intrigued by the rise of the foundation stick in recent months; an easy on-the-go option that allows you to control the level of coverage you’re after. My current favourite is the Hourglass Vanish Seamless Finish Foundation Stick, although Makeup Revolution has just brought out its own version for a fraction of the price.
Applying a foundation stick to the centre parts of my face first, and then blending outwards with a dampened beauty blender (my holy grail beauty tool) gives me the right amount of coverage, leaving ‘clear skin’ areas looking as natural as possible. The glossy and glazed skin look was central to the SS18 catwalk looks; concentrating on natural hydration and high-shine glaze finishes as opposed to glittery, illuminated bases. To achieve this look, first apply your usual highlighter, then follow with a serum or moisturiser on top before applying your foundation.
ALL EYES ON YOU
It’s not only the skin that’s getting a gloss-over, the trend has also influenced the majority of eye looks, especially with the re-introduction of creamy eyeshadow formulas. When it comes to beauty, I like to keep things simple, so I’m overjoyed about the amount of eyeshadow launches with ‘swipe and blend with your finger’ application. Glossier’s latest Lidstar launch has already become a staple – each shade lights up eyes with a wash of shimmery colour, which is ideal for springtime. The custom-blended colourways of coated pigment and multicolour pearl allows you to mix and match for a creamy blend that provides a soft veil without creasing, fading or smudging.
Cover FX and Stila have also introduced similar formulas, which I’ve been loving too. Stila’s Shimmer & Glow is available in 11 rich shades and provides a pearl-packed translucent base that gives a barely there, refreshing feel with smooth colour laydown. My favourite shades include Pigalle (shimmering cool cranberry) and Bohéme (shimmering pale lilac). The Cover FX Shimmer Veils also pack a multi-dimensional punch, gliding effortlessly onto the skin – perfect for wherever you want to add a bit of shimmer. I was instantly drawn to Amethyst, but Soleil also slipped into my shopping bag – you can never have too many, right?
GLOW, GLOW, GLOW
If there’s one thing that screams spring/ summer season, it’s highlighter. I’ve recently found myself stashing the highly pigmented powders to the back of my drawers, and instead reaching for a new innovative jelly formula from INC.redible Cosmetics. The You Go Girl Iridescent Jelly is set to be big for SS18, and it’s not difficult to understand why. Offering a fun bouncy texture, the iridescent hues provide a magical sheen that bonds seamlessly with your skin to leave a subtly dewy finish that enhances your natural radiance. I’m afraid you’ll have to wait a little bit for this one as it doesn’t launch until later in March but don’t worry, we have plenty on offer to keep you occupied while waiting!
HEALING POWERS
One of the most exciting trends for SS18 takes inspiration from healing crystals, and you’ll notice many products infused with the precious stones. The recent catwalks have shown that adorning your face with sizeable rhinestones, gems and any other sparkly stone is going to be the in thing. If like me, you’ll want to downplay this trend by limiting it to one area: stick to your nails. One of my favourite nail brands is Beauty of London, which today unveiled its brand new Crystal Vision collection. The four-piece range features cosmic shades inspired by the crystals known for their healing properties, including Rose Quartz, Jade and Amethyst. Made from a unique plasticiser technology, the Gel-Effect Nail Lacquers last for up to five chip-free days.
How do you switch up your makeup for Spring? Tweet us and let us know!
