As the new season's glamorous look hits the streets, Phyl Clarkegoes back to bases
Homework: check. Bus fare: check. Locker key: check. Lunch money: check. Phone: check. Heated discussion about the need for a jacket: check. We may lament the end of the holidays, and resent the routine a new school term imposes on us, but there are hidden benefits in our household. By the time our first year secondary student leaves the house, I feel I've done half a day's work already - and it's still only 7.30am.
September's here. Both the linens and clothes that have any hint of a holiday air about them are packed away with the fluorescent Crocs, (you didn't did you? Oh please tell me you didn't). You cannot look like a clown and a beauty queen simultaneously.
Time to throw an eye over the make up, too. Gone are the days when a sweep of tinted moisturiser will get you through. A more structured approach to dressing will need to be reflected in your make-up, and your base is the perfect place to start honing your trans-seasonal look.
If you've been paying attention, you should know that retro glamour is a big trend this autumn. Base is back to give us a super-groomed finish, and because we live in the 21st century, the formulas are now so sophisticated that we can achieve the smooth matte look without any of the powdery effects of old. In fact, these formulations offer the best of both worlds - a matte, long-lasting finish that smooths and perfects, along with a light reflecting luminous finish.
The new bases come in a variety of textures, but my top pick is a compact, because you can use this one product to conceal, smooth and finish, all in one. No need for powder either. Plus the big plus is that it is ultra-portable, for touch-ups on the go.
One of the original greats of the compact world, ShiseidoCompact Foundation (€33 for a refillable compact), gives great coverage, with a light finish, and comes with a bonus of SPF 15. Slipping a Chanelcompact out to powder your nose oozes glamour, and its new Matt Lumière Compact foundation (€42.50, refillable) delivers in spades. It manages to combine matte and radiance in one product and goes on sale on September 24th - start queuing now. Estée Lauder's Ideal Matte Refinishing Compact (€32.50) is perfect for this season's looks. Long lasting powdered velvet in a compact, with a natural dewy finish - it's great for evening out drier skin. Prep skin first with their new Idealist Pore Minimizing Skin refinisher (€50) for the ultimate finish. Dior's Diorskin Forever Compact (€43.50) will give you long, long lasting matte coverage, and is perfect if your skin is slightly oily.
Hitting the current trend perfectly is Armani's Designer Modelling Compact at €65 which comes in a solid form with a clever inner lid which houses the application brush. It is as portable as a compact, but you need to have a mirror handy. Top marks for the SPF of 22. So, no excuse not to be perfectly groomed at the first parents' association meeting.