Make-up is grown up and sophisticated this autumn. Think 1940's glamour with a modern metallic twist. Dramatic eyes coupled with berry-coloured lips is the look of the season, and it couldn't be easier to recreate at home. Mernie Gilmore, Daily Express beauty expert, explains how.

Skin should look dewy so allow it to breath with an ultra sheer foundation. Try Mac Mineralize Satinfinish SPF 15 Foundation, £18.50 (www.maccosmetics.co.uk) which comes in 17 shades so is perfect for any skin tone. Apply only where needed - you're aiming to even out any imperfections rather than swamp your skin's natural glow with make-up.

A good highlighter is another autumnal essential and should be swept over cheekbones and under the brow area. Estee Lauder's Brilliant Shimmer All Over Powder, £27 (www.esteelauder.co.uk) will suit all skin tones and can be built up from a soft sheen to full on shimmer.

The Eyes Have It

The strongest feature this season is the eyes with metallics being the order of the day. Try a strong bronze shade on the upper lid and smudge a soft gold underneath. Nars Shimmer Eyeshadow in California, £15 (www.spacenk.com) is a delicious molten copper shade while Barry M Dazzle Dust in Marigold, £4.50 (www.barrym.co.uk) is perfect carefully applied under the eye.

Eyeliner is dramatic and how strong you can go depends on your skin tone. If you have a pale, English Rose complexion, use a dark brown eye shadow applied with a slanting brush. Try Bobbi Brown's Espresso Eye Shadow, £13.50, applied with the Ultra Fine Eyeliner Brush, £17 (www.bobbibrown.co.uk). For olive and darker skins try a black liquid liner and sweep it across the upper lid. The Body Shop Liquid Eyeliner, £7.50 (www.thebodyshop.co.uk) has a clever felt tip-style nib that makes application easy.

The Final Touches

Complete your eye look with strong eyebrows. Remember, no matter how dark your brows, fill them in with tiny, feathery strokes using a shade that is considerably lighter than your natural colour to avoid an over-drawn look. Benefit's Brow Zings, £21.50 (www.benefitcosmetics.co.uk) comes in a range of soft shades.

As eyes are the focus, keep your lips muted. Crushed berry shades are perfect but to achieve the soft effect, use a light formulation and avoid lip liner. Try Clinique Almost Lipstick in Black Raspberry for pale skin, Black Raisin for olive tones and Black Plum for darker skins, £12 (www.clinique.co.uk).

courtesy of Evans,

Evans Plus Size Womens Clothing