You’ll invariably find the changing seasons reflected in your make-up as well as your wardrobe. As the crisp, clean light of spring and (slightly) warmer temperatures become standard, the urge to put the heavy winter woollies back in the wardrobe becomes pressing. The sturdy bases and eye make-up of winter can look and feel at odds with the season by mid- to late-February, and as spring/summer collections hit make-up counters, it’s hard to stay resolute as the brighter colours and lighter, more skin-based looks call to us. If you’re in the mood for change, consider focusing on lips and cheeks for a fresher, more natural take on an easy spring face and to save yourself time in the morning.
NARS Bumpy Ride Blush (€32)
This has all the hallmarks of NARS’s iconic Orgasm blush, but in a brighter, poppier coral-pink shade. Just a touch to the apples of cheeks enlivens the face. It is powerful, so apply conservatively, then build as desired.
Mac Powder Blush in Devil (€24)
This is a classic. If you love a red lip, consider a tonal look by using the finest touch of a red blush like this one for a natural, pinched flush. If you have deep-toned skin, apply liberally for a glorious rich finish.
Clinique Crayola Chubby Stick (€20)
These combine two of my favourite things – ease of application and shameless nostalgia. Rarely has a collaboration between two brands been such fun. The finish is sheer and comfortable, and you can forget about it as it won’t wear off patchily like lipstick can.
Bobbi Brown Cheek Glow Palette (€43)
For a dewy, skin-focused spring look, a cream blush is ideal. This one applies easily, comes in natural tones that mimic a “light exercise” flush, and has an accompanying highlighter for radiant glow.
Tom Ford Cheek Colour (€60)
The blush range of blush ranges has just expanded to include several new shades. They are universally delectable: apply dreamily.
Mac Retro Matte Liquid Lip Colour (€22)
My favourite matte lipstick of all time (10 hours of perfection without reapplication as I ate my way through my brother’s wedding, just saying) has expanded its range to include more nudes and a few delightfully shocking shades, like a deep teal. This lipstick is the most reliable and consistently performing product in my make-up bag.
Diorblush Colour Gradation Blush in Coral Twist (€47.50)
Make-up should be practical first, but it should also be beautiful if it possibly can. This ombré effect coral blush is sumptuous and so finely milled that it feels like a warm breeze on application.
Smashbox Always On Lipstick (€24)
This longlasting lipstick wears extremely well, has an incredible and varied shade range, and will garner more compliments than you thought possible.
Burberry Kisses Sheer Moisturising Shine Lip Colour (€29)
This is the confluence of luxury and practicality in an incredibly chic tube. The formulation packs an impressive pigment considering the buttery, melting texture. I’d opt for a practical shade you’ll wear every day and keep it permanently in my handbag.
