A masterclass in colour

There’s an art to applying spring’s fresh palette

I’m currently enjoying feeling a tad painterly when it comes to my make-up choices, and two of my three new favourites convey a definite watercolour vibe. Enter Skywash from Glossier (€18, glossier.com), a sheer matt lid tint. It looks much like a lip gloss, and boasts a doe-foot applicator, but it’s all about the eyelids. I tend to steer clear of bold colour when it comes to eyeshadow, but with these I’ve actually gone for blue, official name Pool, because it’s the lightest, fluffiest shade you could hope to find – more of a hint than a holler. There are six more to choose from, ranging from taupe to peach to green. It has a light sort of swooshy, watery texture too – so no dragging on the eyelids – and you can build the colour but it remains relatively understated in its hue.

In a similar vein, but a different format, is Sainsbury’s Boutique Waterproof Eyeshadow Pencil (€3.80, beautybyboutique.co.uk).

I tend to steer clear of bold eyeshadows, but these are more of a hint than a holler

I rate a lot of Sainsbury’s own-brand make-up and this really is excellent for the price. Upon application its texture feels more substantial than the Glossier offering, and it definitely requires a bit of rubbing in (although the long-lasting formula helps to prevent it from creasing). However, the effect is subtle, more of a suggestion of pigment around the eyes. There are six rather classic shades to choose from – I like

Charcoal and

Champagne. Also on an arty tip (albeit more oblique) is the Pür Cosmetics Blushing Act Skin Perfecting Powder (€23.95, purcosmetics.co.uk). This compact colour looks almost impressionistic with a subtle pattern of blooms rippling across its surface. A dusting of this provides you with a natural finish and is ideal for a spring blush refresh. It’s available in two shades: Berry Beautiful and – my choice – Pretty in Peach.