AS we try to brighten [...]; Beauty School.

AS we try to brighten up the winter weather with florals and pastels, match your make-up with the infusion of colour in your wardrobe.

Just don't go crazy on us now though, will you? Let your lips and nails do the talking, using a splash of the same colour or a burst of brightness to lids that can be matched with something you're wearing. The look is 'subtle' but also like you mean it, too.

1.Let's start with nails. If you're not confident of pulling off a strong colour on your face, why not indulge in colourful talons because you can really have some fun without going over the top. Barry M's Nail Paint in Fuchsia, pounds 2.95, is a brilliant shade for this look, on hands and feet; Rimmel has an amazing shade - azteque - in the LYCRA Wear 10 with Xtra Life nail polish, pounds 2.99. Revlon's nail enamels, pounds 6.16, have some serious shades in Red Hot Tamale, Posh Pink, Tropical Temptation, Plum Seduction and Valentine and Coral. All Boots.

2. Match nails with Barry M's Lip Paint in Coral, pounds 4.25, which is pretty bright, but remember you can just wear a smudge of colour, so you don't have to panic about having too strong a shade on your smackers; from Boots. Then there's Bobbi Brown's Lip Crayon, back by popular demand and combines the luxurious feel of a lipstick with the ease and convenience of a jumbo, crayon-inspired pencil. We love Wild Rose and Posey, pounds 18.50, from major department stores. Revlon's Super Lustrous Lipstick comes in an abundance of shades from vibrant reds, hot pinks and captivating corals through to mellow browns and spirited wines, pounds 7.13. Boots. 3.Don't go overboard with colour on lids; a touch here, a brush there - nothing too vibrant. Eyes are still smoky and dark; but you can add a gentle hint of colour to add an up-to-date vibe. Revlon's ColorStay' 12-Hour Eyeshadow Quad provides up to 12 hours of colour without creasing, fading or smudging. We like In The Buff and Blushed Wines, pounds 7.82 and MAC has Mineralize Eye Shadow (duo) pounds 15, in Devil May Care (violet and silver) and Under your Spell (light yellow peach pink).

4. Bobbi Brown's darker shades of Shimmer Wash Eye Shadow, pounds 14.50, like heather mauve, are also great for lining the eyes. Apply with the Eye Liner Brush to achieve a strong, definite line. Or, use the Smudge Brush to create a soft, smudged look. Add Hollywood style with Dior Style Liner Intense Liquid Eyeliner, in 174 Sparkling Purple, pounds 20, painted along the top of your lid. It's gorgeous and will last all night. From major department stores.