Unleash your inner gothic glam
The goth glam trend, inspired by the Addams family, was all over AW23’s runways. The word “trend” makes me shudder, but I get the need to modernise a look. Just don’t be too literal. For a festive iteration, think: what would happen if Wednesday Addams met Studio 54 and a bit of restraint? So if you go for the goth eyes try a sheer finish. If black’s too much, try dark bronze. And if dark lipstick strikes fear, go nude. Morticia would be mortified, but at least you’ll look like you.
1.Vieve Eye Wand in Raven £23, vieve.co.uk2.RMS Beauty Legendary Serum Lipstick £33, spacenk.com3.Ruby Hammer Precision Liquid Eyeliner £19, rubyhammer.co.uk4.Chanel Le Vernis Long Wear Nail Colour in Sequins £29, chanel.com5.Victoria Beckham Lid Lustre in Mink £33, victoriabeckhambeauty.com
I can’t do without… A moisturising mask that actually does live up to the hype
As a beauty journalist, I pride myself on not recommending a beauty brand or product simply because it is big on social media. That said, when you consistently hear about a product going viral across the digital landscape, it becomes impossible for your ears not to prick up. Bubble Skincare is one such brand. In the past six months, it has gained 1.4m followers on TikTok, its fun, bouncy content has garnered more than 1bn views and its packaging is cute, compact and colourful. It is oh so easy to dismiss the hype around it to the youthful over exuberance of its community. But I’ve tried the products. The hype is justified; it is also the fastest-growing skincare brand in the US – and you don’t have to be of the TikTok generation for it to work for you. I am particularly taken with the Hydrating Sleep Mask. The texture is very creamy, but not heavy, so no fear of greasiness. Ingredients include Maple Sap – protects the skin barrier – and mandelic and kojic acids (wonderful for skin brightening). It hydrates dry skin, balances oiliness and stands up to extreme situations – I tested it out on a 12-hour flight and I couldn’t believe how rested I looked when I got off the plane. As with all Bubble’s skincare products, this mask falls under the £20 mark. Considering all the benefits, it is an easy win. Bubble Overnight Hydrating Sleep Mask, £19, beautybay.com
On my radar… star products for a smoother face and soft hands
Surface tension Relevant, the skincare line by beauty veteran Nyakio Grieco, has launched in the UK. This resurfacing toner, which refines skin texture and combats discoloration, is excellent. Relevant Sol Tone Resurface & Glow Solution, £56, sephora.co.uk
While you sleep With liquorice and narcissus to even skin tone, bakuchiol (a plant alternative to retinol) to improve skin elasticity and hyaluronic acid to plump skin, this is the ultimate night serum. Votary Night Star Serum, £105, votary.co.uk
Hand in hand If you can bear to give it away, this luxe handcream – a blend of bergamot, blackcurrant, shea butter, rosehip and almond oils – would make a great gift. Dries van Noten Soie Malaquais, £48, driesvannoten.com
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