Quick and easy make-up for an everyday Alexa complexion!

• Beauty
• 20 February 2012
• by Alex Zagalsky

London Fashion Week has an annoying way of making anyone who isn't invited to the front row (or any row!) feel frustratingly unfashionable - seeing Alexa Chung plastered over every magazine as she graces the shows in a new hot outfit, only compounds the fact that this is February and we haven't even thought about our new spring wardrobes.  

How does one look 'renewed' without investing thousands of pounds on the new Mulberry Del Rey bag (named after singer-of-the-moment, Lana Del Rey, who is yet another beautiful girl who has the fashion world at her feet)? And how do you do it when you only have half an hour to get ready in the morning before you have to run to the tube? The answer is make-up. While we don't advocate following cosmetics trends (diamante feathered lashes do not work in the office), many of this season's products are geared towards looking youthful, fresh and glamourous, in only a few minutes. Here are our favourite make-up cheats that will give you a suitably gorgeous LFW-worthy look…  

Clarins Light Blush  

This little bottle of magic is not just another liquid blush. It boosts radiance and glow with just one quick dab and blend - we love the Vitamin Pink shade (it is packed with plant minerals, so the name is well deserved). The blush also has a wonderful smell, so anyone who kisses you will benefit too, plus it saves on perfume! £19, from major department stores and Clarins.co.uk 

Bobbi Brown Long-Wear Cream Shadow  

A velvety smooth cream shadow that doesn't crease or fade. It will stay put all day and you can even  layer it with your normal eye shadow if you so wish. We tried the very tone neutral shade of Sandy Gold (there are 15 colours to chose from) which evens out skin tone and creates a flawless colour base for eyeliner. Just a great discovery product you'll go on buying for good.  £17 from major department stores and bobbibrown.co.uk

Fluid Sheer by Giorgio Armani  

This is an illuminator like no other - in fact you can even wear it on its own without foundation it's so translucent and subtle, and it's available in five shades. Perfect for days when your skin needs a pick-me-up. £34, from major department stores and giorgioarmanibeauty.co.uk 

Forever Strong Pro Nail Varnish  

Gel manicures that last up to two weeks and don't chip sound so tempting, but there are drawbacks: firstly nails are left worse for wear once the polish is off, and secondly you have re-visit your beautician in order to remove the colour. Maybelline's new Forever Strong Polish stays put for up to 7 days. It's available in 20 shades and five of these are very light, so no need to take off immediately if there is a chip or two! £4 from Boots