A/w 2010 beauty trend: Statement brows
Everything from bleach and dye to extensions and even faux-fur helped to push brows firmly into the limelight at the autumn/winter 2010 shows.
Everything from bleach and dye to extensions and even faux-fur helped to push brows firmly into the limelight at the autumn/winter 2010 shows. From carnival colours at Balenciaga (right) and Manish Arora to strictly polished power brows at Chloé (left), one thing was certain: bold brows are back and set to dominate over their 'arched' rivals this season.
A/w 2010 beauty trend: Statement brows
But FYI: heavy needn't mean harsh. Strong graphic brows had their hard edges softened with feathered strokes at Prada (left), Erin Wasson and Trias while a more natural look took shape at Emilio Pucci (right).
A/w 2010 beauty trend: Statement brows
Brooke Shields has inspired women the world to ditch their tweezers since she graced our screens with "those brows" in 1980s classics like The Blue Lagoon. But look again – there's no way this girl was shipwrecked without a damn good pair of tweezers. This is a look that's strong but perfectly groomed... and oh so feminine.
A/w 2010 beauty trend: Statement brows
Hairs growing above your brow line will make them appear uneven. Have them removed professionally as one wrong move with the tweezers could ruin your natural brow shape. To set yours as they are try this brilliant gel.
MAC Brow Set in Clear, £10 from MAC
A/w 2010 beauty trend: Statement brows
To keep the look balanced, hold a pencil against your nostril vertically to see where your brow should start then move it diagonally so it passes the outer corner of your eye; where it rests at your brow is where it should finish. For a softer look, try a wax filler.
The Body Shop Brow & Liner Kit in Brunette & Brown, £10 from The Body Shop
A/w 2010 beauty trend: Statement brows
Use a pencil to draw your outline first then fill in any gaps with light, feathery strokes for a bold but natural look. Alternatively, use a brow powder sparingly.
Insider trick: Backstage brow aficionado and global creative director for Max Factor, Pat McGrath, suggests this trick for softening your pencil: "If the pencil feels too hard, warm it by a radiator, between the fingertips or with a hairdryer."
Bobbi Brown Brow Pencils, available in five shades, £13.50 each from Bobbibrown.co.uk
A/w 2010 beauty trend: Statement brows
For basic upkeep, nothing beats a sharp pair of tweezers.
Tweezerman Tiger Print Tweezer, £22 from Asos