FASHION TRENDS

The dark side of beauty first appeared back in 2008 when dark, glossy black lips appeared gracing models' lips on the Yves Saint Laurent winter runway. Inky and thick, fashion took note and now, a year on, near black lippy is no longer just for goths... it's the top lip trend for winter.

Spotted on the catwalks at Rachel Roy and Topshop Unique there's no shying away from this shady style, but dark lipstick can be a tough look to pull off. When staying true to the trend and daring to wear a shiny black lip, keep the face dewy and light, forgetting eye-makeup to concentrate on flawless skin. For a more wearable take on the trend, opt for a luscious, deep burgundy hue as seen at Charlotte Ronson.

However you play it the dark, statement lip is undeniably sexy. Wear it late at night, teamed with killer heels for maximum effect.

When nude colour palettes and soft makeup just don't cut it, it's time to embrace the 80s and experiment with makeup. Colours, shapes and textures are all there to be played with in order to bring out your individuality and stand out from the crowd. With the unashamedly frivolous and hedonistic era back en vogue there's no excuse not to unleash some creativity.

This look showcases over the top, in your face glamour with eye-popping colour. Marc Jacobs is leading the way, sending models down his Autumn/Winter runway with bold, thick eyeshadow teamed with chalky pink lipstick.

The key picks from this eccentric trend provide a fresh take on the eighties classic for blue eyes and pink lips. Navy eyeliner replaces retro sky-blue shadow and soft nude lipstick wipes out bubblegum shades. The end result? A beautiful yet eye-catching look which is sure to turn heads for all the right reasons.

Eschew pasty complexions this winter for something with a bit more heat. Bronzed skin needn't be reserved for the warmer months and, done right, can bestow a healthy radiance which will brighten up any cold and gloomy day.

Tanned skin in the winter gives the impression of luxury and refinement, conjuring up images of relaxing pool-side during sun soaked holidays in far-flung paradises. As seen on the Chloe catwalk, the Winter sun complexion can easily recreated with a dab of fake tan and a powdering of bronzer. Apply golden bronzer with a big fluffy brush to keep the colour even, not stripy, touching up points which catch the sun like the forehead, nose and cheekbones.

Team deliciously biscuit shaded skin with metallic eye-makeup which will reflect the light and up the wow factor. Glistening gold swept across the eyelids will translate this polished trend from day to night in one quick stroke.

Fiery red hair has been the style of choice for on-trend celebrities this year. From pop-princesses to acting A-listers, everyone has been reaching for the red dye; making flame hued locks the new must-have hair colour.

All shades and intensities of red are in fashion, from soft and feminine strawberry blonde as worn by Ashlee Simpson, to the dark and vampy ruby which Cheryl Cole experimented with.

To find your perfect shade, work with your own natural colouring. Coppery bases are perfectly offset against skin which has natural flush of pink, whilst dark plummy tones suit olive skin. Pale complexions can pull off vivid, vibrant reds which have the added benefit of warming a washed out pallor. Don’t be afraid to play with the colour, finding a shade which suits your personality as well as your skin tone.