Fashion Brief
I am not keen on any product name containing the word “miracle”, so I feel a bit grubby about the fact that Olay’s (already a bit iffy-sounding) Wrinkle Relaxing Complex has been reborn as 10 Minute Miracle (£29.99). Still, I’m glad of the chance to reacquaint you with this marvellous primer, a favourite among industry insiders.
What 10 Minute M**acle does is much what a silk stocking stretched over a Box Brownie camera did way back when: it blurs and smooths everything temporarily. You stroke one pump over your moisturiser and leave for 10 minutes before applying makeup (the time delay is well worth it, but it does make the serum more practical for a special night out than for an 8am meeting). Foundation goes on smoothly, skin seems more even, fine lines and pores look noticeably filled in.
The names notwithstanding, I like the honesty of quick-fix products. No cod science, no pretence of lasting change, just solid problem-solving for when one’s face looks like an old slipper. My newer love is Dior’s brilliant Glow Maximiser Primer (£28.50), applied in the same way. It’s like holding up a candle to my grey, post-winter face and feels as close to perfect as any primer could.
Sali loves… hair chalks
L’Oréal Professionel Hairchalk, £15
The applicator means you can be precise, allowing you easily to create streaks and stripes in shades from bright to modest (there are coffee, black and bronze options). Lasts very well – it takes two washes to get back to square one.
Kevin Murphy Colour Bugs, £14
Not for the shy and retiring, but brilliant fun for the bold. Super-vivid, temporary colour that simply wipes on like makeup, then washes out in the shower.
Bumble and bumble Spray Chalk, £15
Surprisingly subtle shades to give hair a sheer, pretty, pastel-toned tint. Easy to apply and a cinch to remove: just brush vigorously.
