Kiss bye-bye to the blues with latest make-up look

Published on Monday 26 July 2010 17:50

WHILE the winter blues should be long behind us, the colour is one of this season's hottest looks with designers and beauty insiders.

So, think clear skies and relaxing hot springs, azure waters and fresh spring dew, and bring blue in from the cold.

Far from being a draining colour, if used subtly, blue can open up eyes and give a bit of pizzazz to nails, but if you're wary of adopting the Abba look, choose blue bath and skincare products which will transform you from blue-hoo to blue-belle.

The eyes will have it, thanks to the Yves Saint Laurent Trsor d'Afrique 5 Colour Palette (37, Boots and department stores), a selection of wearable shades, including turquoise and navy blue. Rimmel Glam Eyes Mono Eye Shadow in "Posh Peacock" (4.49) can be used as liner to add definition, or layered on for a powerful look. Or try the brand's Colour Rush Mono shadow in azure (3.99) for a striking gaze.

If you choose a shade that works with your eye colour, blue eyeliner will give a modern look. Christian Dior Crayon Eyeliner Waterproof Long-wear Waterproof Eyeliner Pencil in "Captivating Blue" (16) is a good buy, offering lasting, intense colour and water-resistance.

For a hint of shimmer, No7 Metallic Eye Pencil (7.50, Boots) comes in turquoise and deeper blue.

Coloured mascaras are having a resurgence and blue is no exception. Don't think of it in its scary 1970s incarnation, but rather as a 21st century statement, which can look great. Try Barry M Coloured Lengthening Mascara in blue for some fun (4.95), or new No7 Extreme Length Mascara Metallics in 'Iridescent Sapphire' (12, Boots), with a brush shaped to give lashes maximum length and definition.

Fingers and toes will be transformed with a coat of Collection 2000 Hotlooks Fast Dry Nail Polish in "Show Off", "BMX Bandit" or "Blue Hawaii" - or treat yourself to all three, thanks to their purse-friendly price (1.79 each, Boots and Superdrug). No7 Speed Dry Nail Colour in "Poolside Blue" (6.75) will add a shot of colour against the skin.

To add some sparkle to your life, try a hint of shimmer. MAC Pigment Colour Powder in vibrant blue-green "Teal", or the palest pastel blue "Corn Flower" (15 each, Harvey Nichols) can be applied to eyes or dusted very lightly across shoulders and backs. Or go for Barry M Fine Glitter Dust in "Blue Silver" (4.50, Superdrug) for an equally funky look.

Don't run a mile at the mention of blue lips. It's less Six Feet Under and more Sex and the City if done right. While Barry M Lip Paint in new "Robot Blue" may only be for the most confident among us (4.25), the company's Shimmering Eye and Lip Crayon in "Turquoise/Blue" (4.50) is a less full-on option.

With any of these fun and effective beauty products, you can wave goodbye to blue moods.