Beauty

Compiled by PHYL CLARKE

On the lash

Try a different approach to mascara by applying different shades to top and bottom lashes. The effect is to subtly define and open up the eye and it works well in summer if you’re taking a holiday from eyeshadow. Estée Lauder has made it easy with its Two Tone Double Ended Mascara (€25). One end has a full brush in black for top lashes and the other a smaller brush in brown for bottom ones.

Shine on

Give lips the summer treatment with By Terry’s Aqualip Jelly Tint, €30, a translucent lip tint which can be worn lightly or layered up for a more intense finish. Plump and rosy lips, yes please. Available at SpaceNK Belfast and Harvey Nichols, Dublin.

Holiday hit list

School’s out for summer and whether you’re heading away or having a staycation, a more pared-back approach to make-up is in order. Choose hard working products to give maximum impact with minimal effort.

A good concealer will make dark circles and flaws disappear to the extent that you may decide to skip foundation altogether – now wouldn’t that be a relief. MAC’s Prolongwear Concealer (€19), will not only stay the distance on a sticky day, but its natural matte finish comes in 15 shades for a perfect skin match. If you can’t go foundation-free, consider using a tinted moisturiser instead. Clarins HydraQuench (€31.50), adds a fresh looking veil of colour while minimising fine lines.

I can't live without . . . Cathy O'Connor Fashion stylist and personal shopper, stylist.ie

For me, the sound of summer is not the sound of grass being mown, nor the sound of children playing in the glorious, long evenings . . . no, it’s that most evocative of sounds – the flip, flip, flop, flop rhythm of my Fit Flops. Once those sandals are dusted down, I know summer has started. Stylish and comfortable – my favourite combination.

When I’m under pressure, I love a moment of escapism. My swiftest hit is through scent and my current favourite hit is Bataille des Fleurs by Cloonkeen Atelier. Like all their perfumes, it’s interesting and layered. It’s an Irish company and I do love to support Irish.

There are many advantages to being a woman and I’m reminded of this most mornings when I wake up and look in the mirror. My initial heart-stopping moment is abated as I realise that the bleary, panda eyes that greet me will soon disappear with a little make-up.

I’m grateful to have a whole artillery of make-up available to me. Clarins Instant Light Brush On Perfector has long been a trusted ally.

Since giving up cigarettes recently, I've found a new addiction. Luckily, it's none of the usual substitutes – coffee, sweets or chewing gum – but water. I've been downing more water than Fungi. I sought out the best water I could find – purewater.ie– it's steam distilled water.

I’ve traded one bad habit for one good one. That’s one down, but sadly, so many more to go.