The recession and the pessimism that has come with it has gone on long enough where the fashion world is concerned; the dreary, drab silhouettes of past seasons may have been reflecting our attitudes towards the world and our bank statements, but let's be honest, also haven't made us women look our best. The minimalist androgyny we've been seeing as a trend may work for you if you're proportioned like the six foot tall glamazons that grace advertising campaigns, but for all intents and purposes, it nonetheless feels as though a fundamental femininity in fashion has been lost. Where are all the skirts, the colors, the bright lipsticks?

This upcoming spring season it’s all about a return to romantic naturalism with a definitively modern edge. From the violet-hued eye shadows and bare lips seen on the runways of Dior to the stark simplicity of top-knots and mascara’d minimalism at Marc Jacobs, it is clear that overdone is done with where hair and beauty are concerned, which is definitely good news for those of us with over-processed, winter dry skin and more split ends than we know what to do with!

To stay on trend without breaking the bank, look to drugstore brands like Rimmel and Maybelline for brightly coloured eyeliners which you can use to create fresh, youthful peepers as seen in the picture above. Conversely, if you prefer a more subtle look like the one below, keep an eye out for shimmery bronzers and blush powders that are more golden than brown, and if applied correctly will give you that beach babe glow regardless of whether or not you’re a stone’s throw from the waterfront or, conversely, stuck in the downtown urban jungle! Just remember: good skin and well-made brushes go a long way, so make a trip to Sephora or a professional beauty supply shop where the experts can show you how to perfectly apply any product.