Classic Eye Liner for SS12

From beach to bar this summer, whether you’re in Barbados or Bangor, eyeliner will probably be a cosmetic bag staple.

Achieve a timeless sex kittenish look à la Brigitte Bardot with non-budging liquid eyeliner. Pens are less fussy than traditional brush styles (being all in one), and will give you greater control and definition than a pencil. They’re bestsellers for a reason, and Shu Uemera’s liquid eyeliner pen battles against summer heat and stickiness marvellously. Start in the middle of the lid and, using small, precise strokes, work your way out into a flick reaching just past the outer corner of the eyelid. (Keep a wipe handy to rectify mistakes). A coat of mascara will finish it off.

Alternatively, those in favour of a less finished look could opt for a pencil. (Kohl is too smudgy and would slide off in five minutes flat. Attempt at your peril). Start with a matte shadow to minimise shine, building up the pencil gradually. With eye liner, there is little need for lipstick, so keep lips neutral with a dab of balm or gloss at the most.

Feel like black is too harsh for the summer sun? Indulge in a modern classic – coloured eye liner. For a brightening effect, choose a shade that will make the whites of your eyes pop, and dab colour into the inner corners, blending ever so slightly out.

Shu Uemera Liquid Eye Liner in Black £11.50, www.shuuemera.co.uk

Revlon ColourStay Liquid Liner £7.99, www.revlon.co.uk

Topshop Makeup Liner in Jet £6.50, www.topshop.com

The Body Shop Eye Definer In Black £8, www.thebodyshop.com

No7 Amazing Eyes Pencil in Black £7.75, www.boots.com

NARS Larger Than Life Long Wear Eyeliner in Abbey Road £17, www.narscostmetics.co.uk

Giorgio Armani Smooth Silk Eyeliner Pencil in Green £18, www.giorgioarmanibeauty.co.uk

Essential Care Mineral Eyeliner in Brown £12.50, www.essential-care.co.uk

Clinique Quickliner for Eyes £14, www.clinique.co.uk

Mary and House of Fraser Moiself Fix Your Mascara Hanky £5, www.hof.co.uk