Couture isn’t something most of us can afford (or even imagine being able to afford) but there is one fashion-forward element that you can take away from the couture shows. The world’s most expensive clothes and most expensive shows require the world’s most expensive looking makeup of course!

Just like the couture creations themselves there were more and less real-life friendly looks. If you think that no one in your workplace will be shocked by the black geometric eyeshadow shapes and no-eyebrows look from the Armani Privé show, then by all means go for it…

Best daytime look: Christian Lacroix

For a daytime look with a difference, Lacroix wins hands down this season. Models were dewy-skinned with a light rosy blush and natural lip – think a coat of tinted lipbalm. Easy peasy. The eyes were slightly trickier to carry off – shaded with a natural beige and then taken to the glamorous heights we expect of Lacroix with a 1950s-style slick of jet black eyeliner top and bottom and lightly mascaraed. Chic, elegant daytime glamour.

Best skin: Christian Dior

Monsieur Galliano’s inspirations for the collection were Flemish painters and this influence came through in his choice of cosmetics as well as his garments. The models’ skin became a canvas, carefully coloured with the painterly tones and soft palette of the Old Masters. A combination of highlighter cream and peachy blush created a glowing complexion perfect for Spring. The translucent, flawless look they had seemed directly inspired by works such as Vermeer’s Girl With a Pearl Earring.

Best evening look: Valentino

The fashion posse has been raving about the metallic look recently and it would seem that Valentino Garovani has been listening. Against a neutral canvas of milky white skin and glossy nude lips, the eyes took centre stage at the Valentino show this season. Using a palette of shimmering silver, gunmetal, deep jade green, burnished bronze and electric blue, eyes were heavily lined and shaded, adding a luxe twist to the sultry eyed styles we usually see on the podiums. Our personal favourite was the the metallicised aubergine version of the look.