Recent trends for spring and summer have appeared in the shape of bold up-beat neons and feisty fuchsias contrasted with that of cool corals. This year however sees the introduction of a pretty pastel palette with purple tones taking centre stage. Forget dark plum shades that take inspiration from the gothic look and think subtle lilacs that are perfect for every day wear.
Pretty purples are however quite difficult to wear and overloading the colour can appear over the top, lilac should be kept fresh and just a little should be injected into an outfit in order for this trend to work. Mauve will instantly update a tired ensemble and is the perfect colour addition to the spring and summer wardrobe
You shouldn’t just think about adding a pop of purple to an outfit, introduce this pretty pastelle shade to your make-up too. A cool lilac colour with hints of blue undertones will awaken the eyes and will suit most skintones. A more dramatic and deeper mauve shade is more apt for those with an olive complexion, it can however make eyes appear red and tired if not applied correctly.
Adding a splash of lilac to your make-up palette such as a purple eyeliner or eye shadow teamed with a slick of black liner and mascara is the perfect look for 2010. Versace have already been working this trend on their spring and summer catwalk shows, one rule to keep in mind is to keep the injection of purple to one thing. Either stick to eyes or lips but never both. Dior showcased iris eyelids and bold blood red lips, this is certainly a bold and daring look. To tone this style down or for a daytime look, team dramatic eyes with a clear or nude gloss shade.
A definite combination to avoid is pink blusher as this will create a younger Barbie-like style as pink and purple are too close in tone. A coral cheek colour or even a touch of bronzer is the perfect alternative to pink and these shades will also instantly warm up the complexion.
