With the cold weather well and truly setting in, you may be tempted to let yourself go. But I’ll let you in on a secret: spicing up your hair, make-up and mani is much more satisfying. You’ll be too busy thinking about how #babin you look, you won’t have a chance to focus on the dreary weather. Not sure what to do? These winter colour trends are a good place to start…
For your locks…
Don’t want to say goodbye to your summer highlights? No worries. To make your sun-kissed strands season-appropriate, temper them with bronde: a subtle shade that’s somewhere in between blonde and brunette. Personally, I’m a huge fan, but in case you need more convincing, Taylor Swift, Cara Delevingne and Lily James love it as well. To get the most out of this more modest hair colour, work some volume into your hair with a dry shampoo, such as Schwarzkopf ULTÎME Biotin + Volume Dry Shampoo.
Not sure how to apply it correctly? Follow bh’s Cherie’s lead:
If you prefer a little contrast in your ‘do, take your lead from Miranda Kerr and Alison Williams, who’ve been rocking a wintery version of balayage. It’s the perfect way to revive dull, brown strands – plus, it’ll help to frame and brighten up your face. I recommend a visit to the hairdresser for this one (unless you’re a DIY colour extraordinaire, in which case, power to you!). Then, amp up your highlights by spritzing a shine spray all over. We like muk Spa Argan Oil Repair Shine Spray or Redken Diamond Oil High Shine Airy Mist.
For your nails…
White may not be a colour you’re immediately drawn to in the winter months, but trust me: it’s a huge trend right now (and a great way to lift your look). It’s also a neutral shade, so it’ll go perfectly with everything in your winter wardrobe. Try OPI Core Collection in ‘Alpine Snow’ or Sally Hansen Hard As Nails Xtreme Wear Nail Polish in ‘White On’.
bh tip: You may need to paint three coats to get even coverage. If all-white nails are a bit plain for your taste, check out these embellished white manis straight from the catwalk:
Alternatively, you can go for a twist on the classic French mani (yep, they’re making a comeback).
At the other end of the spectrum, black is a classic winter hue that’s always on point. When it comes to shape, I’m coveting Beyonce’s sophisticated oval nails. As for those ladies with short nails, you’re better off mimicking Lauren Conrad’s low-maintenance version…
To copy Lauren’s cool girl mani, go for one of these eight black polishes, plus a high-shine topcoat, such as CND Creative Nail Design Super Shiney Top Coat.
To take your nails all the way to after-work drinks, jazz them up with a crackle effect. Try just one coat of Chi Chi Crackle Nail Polish in Gold for an ultra-glam look (you can do this at your desk in under a minute).
For the eyes…
Winter is black’s time to shine, so experiment with a dramatic eye look this season. For a fresh, modern finish, rock glossy lids with a sweep of winged liner. Here are ten of the best easy-to-apply eyeliners.
Alternatively, a smoky eye look is always a winner. Beginners, watch this how-to for a smoky eye made easy:
For your lips…
Nothing makes for a sexier winter beauty look than a deep, berry lip. It may seem a bit out there, but believe me, beauties: this is a make-up risk worth taking. It’s also an affordable one: opt for Colour by TBN Moisturising Lipstick in ‘Mwahhh!’ or Ulta3 Matte Lipstick in ‘Plum Velvet’. And check out how to pull off a vampy lip for the steps.
One thing’s for sure: you’ll need a perfect base. Use a foundation that offers medium coverage, like Rimmel London Lasting Finish 25 HR Nude Foundation. To set it, sweep on a powder, such as Rimmel London Lasting Finish 25HR Dual Finish Powder.
Which winter colour trend do you like the most? What’s your go-to winter beauty look?