Valentine’s day is a bit silly. There, it’s been said. Make-up isn’t a requirement any more than acknowledging Valentine’s day is, but I think of “date make-up” as any look that you feel good in.
A standard “good skin, bright-eyed” look is my everyday go-to make-up, but it works equally well for special occasions or dinners and dalliances. You’ll look like yourself at your freshest and most awake (and least jaded by Valentine’s day). Unless you love a full-on make-up, keep it relatively simple and have fun. You don’t want to be worrying about what your face is doing.
L’Occitane Delightful Rose Shea Hugs and Kisses set (€18):
This special limited edition set makes a very sweet gift, but it’s also a nice way to stock up on handbag-friendly versions of the effective and beautifully fragranced lip balm and hand cream, for which L’Occitane is especially known.
Maybelline Superstay 24hr Ultimate Red in Ruby Rush (€10.59):
This liquid lipstick from Maybelline won’t move until you take it off, even if you eat. Exfoliate lips before application with some of your favourite lip balm on a cotton bud. Leave it to sit for a few minutes before applying two layers of this screaming red colour.
Max Factor False Lash Effect Mascara (€15.49): Mascara lasts about three months before it gets goopy and you risk eye infection, so it's not worth spending too much on. This is expensive, but gives lashes a deep flutter.
Kiehl’s Turmeric and Cranberry Seed Energising Radiance Masque (€34):
Good skin makes for good make-up. This mask moisturises the face instantly and intensely, leaving skin looking bright and perfectly prepped for foundation.
Charlotte Tilbury Mini Miracle Eye Wand (€39):
In five shades, this gives tired eyes an immediate lift. The eye cream creates the perfect, smooth texture for make-up while the concealer cancels out blue tones and brightens dullness.
Touche Éclat le Teint Foundation (€42 from February):
Ten years in the making, the original version of this was candlelight in a bottle, but some oily skin types didn’t get on with the texture. The new iteration maintains all of the glow without shine. It’s radiant.
Shu Uemura Color Lustre Brilliant Glaze Treatment For Color-Treated Hair (€50):
It’s expensive, but we are talking about special occasions. This mask – shot through with iridescent glitter – leaves hair unbelievably silky. For occasions when “good hair” is important, nothing works like this.
Fuschia Limited Edition Megan's Face Kit (€35 from fuschia.ie): This palette has everything contouring converts will need. In flattering evening light, the shadow it creates accentuates your bone structure dramatically.
Product of the Week – Jo Malone Red Roses Cologne (from €52):
The only rose fragrance that truly smells like a hothouse full of real roses, it’s romantic, sensuous, and generally irresistible.
