THE BRONZE AGE

Nothing spells summer beauty quite like a warm bronzed glow.

A warm wash of colour gets you into the holiday mood; raw and healthy, rather than flawless beauty, influenced by Nineties minimalism and applied to add both structure and luminosity to a complexion emerging from the depths of a British winter. Arguably the investment piece of your summer makeup bag, the bronzer is once again having a moment, and achieving the finishing touch of a golden flush has never been easier [nor has it come in such a range of textures, formulas, or applicators as 2015 provides].

Meet the six products geared towards maintaining [or faking] that post-holiday glow.

***THE CUSTOM GLOW* : CLARINS Aquatic Treasures Summer Bronzing Compact***

Bronzer should leave a glow, rather than simply a wash of colour, and no one does 'is she, isn't she?' sunkissed better than Clarins. The crown jewel of the brand's SS'15 limited edition Aquatic Treasures collection is this supersize bronzing compact; inspired by the shades and textures of ocean sands and designed to provide an injection of warmth and luminosity to complement all skin tones. Four golden hues [from beige to terracotta] combine to create a custom-blend shade, which provides subtle radiance; while Clarins' patented Anti-Pollution Complex quietly works away under the surface, defending the skin from free radicals with its rich cocktail of anti-oxidants.

THE 3-IN-1 : CHARLOTTE TILBURY Filmstar Bronze & Glow

For the most flattering bronzed look [which serves to brighten the eyes and lift the complexion], powder formulations infused with sparkle will prevent an ashen cast. This sleek rose-gold palette contains both highlighter and contour, which, when combined, presents the formula for the perfect summer glow. 'Too pale' and 'too dark' are no longer concerns in need of addressing, and these cool-toned hues will banish all fear of looking too orange; allowing you to mute or amp the intensity of your glow to your heart's content. Road test it at the brand's counters, where enthusiastic MUA's will blend and buff you to bronzed perfection.

“The 1929 girl must be tanned. A golden tan is the index of chic.”

- Coco Chanel

THE ONE-WASH WONDER : THE BODY SHOP Honey Bronzing Powder

The art of utilising bronzer to appear healthy, rather than orange, lies in its application. Whilst using a small, tapered brush is best for contouring, for a healthy all-over glow, use a large fat powder brush to lightly dust colour across your face. A fair complexion demands a delicate bronzer, and bold gestures work best in subtle tones - this delicate honeyed shade adds a subtle but radiant warmth, which will suit even the coolest and pinkest of skintones. This is a perennial makeup bag staple for me; ideal for keeping my skin looking naturally tanned, for speedy application [even the heavy-handed would be hard-pressed to overdo application] and perfect for summer as it conquers and keeps shiny skin at bay.

***THE NEW-GEN BRONZER* : NARS Matte Multiple in Vientiane***

For a bronzer to suit your lifestyle [forever on-the-go], say hello to the Matte Multiples [more than summer handbag/luggage appropriate]; a modern update on the iconic Nars bronzers, and resplendently chic in a variety of shades including the delicate honeyed-copper Vientiane. A stick bronzer might look and sound like the most daunting thing in the world, but the secret is in not taking it directly to the face - instead apply to a buffing or contour brush and blend on. Even the darkest matte monochrome hues become beautifully wearable when presented in a sheer and lightweight formula, and Vientiane is no exception, offering a playful twist on the seasonal beauty staple. Apply thick over the cheekbones and blend well for a fresh, dewy, and ultimately luxurious finish.

Amp it up : Warm colour looks beautiful when applied with confidence on a groomed complexion. I dust bronzer lightly all over before focussing on the areas of my face where the sun hits.

THE OLD-SCHOOL FAVOURITE : BENEFIT Hoola Bronzer

That Hoola has been a beauty lover's makeup bag staple for years is no surprise given that this universally flattering shade has multiple uses, and triumphs in all of them. Ideal for adding structure and definition as well as for dusting all over to perk up a wan complexion and provide the effect of a natural tan, sans sun exposure. In terms of finish it is neither too cool nor too warm, too matte, or too shiny. The formula is highly pigmented however, so pulling off successful application can prove a balancing act to the novice user, and requires [above all] a light hand and the right tool. The supplied applicator serves surprisingly well for sculpting purposes, but at the height of the season, stop worrying about contouring and dust this all over with a large powder brush and the wanton abandon of a girl inspired by Brydie Mack's Hanalei.

***THE HYBRID* : THE BODY SHOP Highlighting Dome in *Bronze****

There is much to be said for a bronzer that can be worn everyday, and truly transcends the seasons. To create the effect of a candlelit warmth [a perennial favourite], select cream formulas with a pearlescent sheen - these serve to emulate the effect of light upon skin. The Body Shop takes a luxe spin in the latest addition to its Honey Bronze range - equal consideration given to colour and texture results in a winning combination. Go for gold with this delicate cream-sheen bronze, which provides a universally flattering shade of warm honey with a rosy satin finish; the perfect summer adornment. Apply with a brush to keep things clean, chic, and sleek.