Phyl Clarke on ladies in lavender
Lovely in lavender. Sounds like something from another era - a time of afternoon tea parties, a time when a woman forsook her career when she became a wife. Embroidery, correspondence, flower arranging: these were the things that filled the lavender lady's day. Her husband came home to find her waiting and dressed for dinner, with a glass of his favourite tipple. They dined on a home-cooked meal before spending the evening listening to the radio.
They say that everything that goes around comes around, and in the summer of 2006, lilac and lavender shades are coming around again. But don't get too carried away with this look. Never was the "less is more" rule more relevant. Firstly, do not try to match eyes, cheeks and lips. Instead, choose one area to highlight, and keep the rest softly muted, using shades in the browny/plum spectrum.
This is an eye shade to suit you. Yes, I mean you, safe and understated in your favourite "don't have to think about it" neutral eye shades. All you have to do is combine lavender with your usual cappuccino shade to bring your eyes alive.
The new lavender is different, in that it is translucent. To avoid looking like Barbara Cartland, think sheer, and you won't go far wrong. Combined with camels and browns, it is a sophisticated combination. Finish with black mascara to define the eyes. If lilac eyes don't appeal to you, a pink blush with a lavender edge is a more restrained way to get the look. It is surprisingly subtle on most skin tones, and will add brightness to a tanned look.
A shimmery lip product is probably the easiest way to hint at the look without looking like a disco diva. Pale and pretty is the way to go. A note of caution, however, the word "pale" here does not refer to your face - you need a hint of tinted moisturiser or bronzer, or it's Bride of Frankenstein, and no man wants to come home to that.
The Goods
Laura Mercier Eye Colour in Lavender Mist Mercier's eye colours are the last word in restrained chic, and this soft shade is one for those who want to play it safe. €24 from Brown Thomas, Dublin, Cork and Limerick
Bourjois Survoltée eye shadow in Lilac Eclaire A lovely pinky lilac. Use a light hand with this one (especially on inner corners of eyes), and you will be rewarded with fresh, bright eyes. And at a mere €7.60 from pharmacies nationwide, what's not to like?
Mac Satin Lipstick in Snob Softest lavender pink for a barely-there lip. €17.50 at Brown Thomas branches nationwide and Dublin Airport
Clarins Colour Quench Lip Balm in Light Pink The glossy option. A slick of this and you're done. €15 at Clarins outlets nationwide.
Clinique Blushing Blush Powder in Smouldering Plum A flattering cheek colour to complement most complexions. €26 from Clinique outlets