International cosmetics company Lancome has recently taken on a new make-up artist, Frenchman Fred Farrugia whose range of colours for spring is sure to dazzle. Called Chrysalis, the line is inspired by the iridescent sheen seen on the wings of exotic insects. The Vernis Triple Tenue nail polish, for example, is offered as a black base over which a transparent topcoat produces glistening blue, green or purple. Similarly, the Rouge Absolu lipstick comes in an almost transparent mother-of-pearl form and the Ombre Stylo Duo eyeshadow pen has cartridges in blue, violet and emerald.
The Chrysalis collection will be available nationwide in a fortnight's time but all this week there is a special spring colours preview with three make-up artists at Brown Thomas in Dublin. The booking fee for this service is £10 redeemable against any Lancome purchase made at the time. However, we can offer the service free to five Irish Times readers who will also be given a gift of all the colours used on them, with an average value of £100. All you have to do is telephone 01-6056666, extension 1138 after 9 a.m. today. The first five callers to mention The Irish Times when they ring will be given a free appointment and make-up.