A couple of people have uttered the C word to me this week. I was offended, horrified even: one of these people was my own son. But then I said the word myself yesterday and, though I was disgusted at myself I thought, yep, there’s no going back now. I’m either going to have to embrace the C word from hereon in or be known as a scrooge.
After all, there are only 12 weeks and 5 days to go (said a ‘helpful’ mum on the school run today). That’s right, we’re on the official countdown to Christmas.
For me the dawning of Autumn – i.e. the slippery slope into all things santa – requires a quick refresh of the make-up bag. Its a season when I begrudgingly put the fake tan away for a few months, eschewing all things bronzer for a more pale and interesting look (shall I start calling this ‘English Rose’, I wonder?).
During this time my makeup becomes slightly more dramatic and interesting, think plums and browns over pinks, reds and shimmer, ready to be paired with all those party dresses I’ll surely be donning come November. I also like to re-visit my skin at this time (why is winter skin a hard one to deal with?!) and invest in a couple of basics that give a flawless base to build upon.
Here are three classic makeup bag updates I’ve splashed out on while reluctantly choking back my feelings about the C word. Ho Ho Ho:
Laura Mercier Foundation Powder – £46
I’m a huge fan of Laura Mercier’s Soft Luminous foundation, but when I’m out all day working then following with festive drinks (that’s before you consider the face-blasting properties of pollution/the tube/British rain/a couple of glasses of wine) I always need a touch-up. This Laura Mercier Foundation Powder is perfect for this; it gives good yet natural coverage and is housed in a compact that doesn’t look too obvious when you’re pulling it out in public.
YSL Touche Eclat – £29
I bought my first tube of Touche Éclat with my first student loan (I’ve always had the right priorities… ahem) and it’s been a classic staple in my makeup bag ever since. During the cooler winter months I like to use it as a subtle highlighter on the inside of my eyes, my cupids bow and on my brow bones. Plus with YSL currently celebrating Touche Éclat’s 25th birthday, if you hurry you’ll get this lovely Star Edition of the iconic pen. Pick yours up here.
Clarins Rouge Eclat in Chestnut Brown – £18
Clarins lipsticks are brilliant: the luxury brand clearly apply their skincare technologies and philosophies to their make-up ranges and it shows. This is a gorgeous dark shade for winter that has a subtle shimmer, too. Buy it here.