Beauty

Compiled by PHYL CLARKE

Lip service

The uplifting qualities of a new lipstick are well known (it’s not called the lipstick factor for nothing). A great shade can transform an otherwise dull day or outfit into something altogether more satisfying

7th heaven

We all know (don’t we?) that wearing the right foundation shade is the basis of a successful make-up, but it’s easier said than done. A quick poll of friends revealed that most had a collection of “not quite right” shades collecting dust on a shelf waiting for that day when they are magically mixed together to produce the ideal colour (throw ’em out girls, it never happens).

The consultants at beauty counters must shoulder some of the blame. I’ll walk away from one that asks which “type of colour” I like – er, one that matches my skin tone exactly please – isn’t that the whole point of foundation?

So hats off to Boots No 7’s new foundation match made service which takes the guesswork out of finding the perfect shade. The clever device assesses the tone, colour and lightness of facial skin in seconds so you can face the day with confidence.

7th Heaven I can't live without . . . JUDITH MILLER

Shiseido Benefiance A wrinkle-resist skin cream that also miraculously counteracts the general wear and tear of everyday life. It’s not cheap – I can still see the look of shock on my husband’s face at a cosmetics counter in Selfridges, some 20 years ago now, after he naively offered to pay for a pot and was presented with the bill – but it’s most certainly worth it.

Jo Malone Lime Basil and Mandarin lotion I think she perfectly captured a light, non-overpowering scent which is very easy to wear.

My dog With apologies to my husband, but I don’t care to think about what it would be like to come home from work, especially if I’ve been away travelling, without our 18-month-old Russian Black Terrier, Vladimir, to greet me.

Mac lipstick Rebel A32 I usually put it on in the lift from the eighth floor, where I work.

My Moon God brooch Having written two books on costume jewellery, I’ve collected some wonderful examples. My out and out favourite, however, is the Joseff of Hollywood Moon God brooch, which I’m wearing in the photograph. Designed in the 1940s, it’s fashioned from “Russian gold”, which isn’t overly reflective under film studio lights.

Judith Miller will be at the annual Irish Antique Dealers’ Fair at the RDS, Ballsbridge, Dublin 4, from Thursday, October 4th to Sunday, October 7th

Matte mates

Nars Pure Matte lipstick in Amsterdam (€26) This range is famed for its intense pigments and long wearing properties, and you can vary the result depending on how you wear it. For a low-key stained effect press it onto lips using your ring finger for more control (it’s more sensitive than the others), or up the ante by applying fully with a lip brush for the last word in modern matte. Unlike some other matte formulas, it won’t dry out your lips as it contains mango butter and vitamin E. The latest shade is Amsterdam, a rich garnet and très, très chic. On a budget? Kate Moss has extended her excellent range for Rimmel with a collection of five matte shades at an introductory price of €4.95

New nudes

Rouge Dior Nude lip colour 683 Esquisse (€33) Although neutral lips are always in fashion (perfect for day wear or when you don’t want to make any colour decisions), getting the right tone is easier said than done. Too flat, too beige, too nondescript, the results can be an unflattering erasure of lips and horror of horrors – add a yellow cast to teeth. Dior has addressed this problem beautifully with a collection of 10 natural lip colours, containing highlighting particles and tones to flatter different colourings. My personal pick is Esquisse, a lively rosewood shade.

Classic case

Clinique Almost Lipstick in Black Honey (€18.50) Use this iconic shade and try to resist its complex blend of red, blue, orange and red tones which flatter all colourings and add subtle definition to lips. Such was the outcry when it was discontinued some years ago as women (myself included) found its unique properties impossible to replicate. Thankfully, Clinique saw sense and it was quickly reinstated.