Seeing some of the finest gowns from Caroline Herrera and Marc Jacobs is always an inspiring occurrence, but what was more interesting to notice was the ‘industrial death’ look for makeup.

Whilst most brands are promoting corals and peaches to enhance a spring time feel, the catwalk contradicts this embellishing a very cold wintry look which actually works!

The central theme is this: heavy definer on the cheek bone, natural cream eye shadow to pop the eyes effortlessly and a tint of red lipstick to emphasize a sort of a burnt or pretty chapped lip - think Lady Gaga in the bath tub for her Bad Romance video.

To pull off this New York look you need to invest in a powder foundation, which seem to be rearing their ugly heads again, after many years of neglect from me. It appears that women prefer a matt finish more than dewy glowing skin which I think keeps skin looking younger and wrinkle free.

For a decent matt foundation, check out:

- M.A.C for a FIX foundation £18, hard core ‘mattify-cation’ for all day wear
- Clinique’s Almost Powder foundation £20, a light weight silky finish
- Nars powder foundation compact, £26 for a great coverage natural finish

To indulge further in the New York makeup swagger, add a touch of taupe or grey eye liner to define the eyes for evening wear. Get ghastly!

By Clare Eluka - Beauty Writer for A-SHU.CO.UK.