Instep Desk

Every year there is a colour that rules the fashion scene and Pantone, the ‘global colour authority’, has named Ultra Violet as the colour of the year. According to Pantone, "A dramatically provocative and thoughtful purple shade, Ultra Violet communicates originality, ingenuity and visionary thinking. The mystical colour is associated with mindfulness and connection."

Not only is Ultra Violet gorgeous but the colour is gentle and most importantly, wearable. The hue is a happy medium between lavender and magenta that can offer a striking look, and help brighten your dull, dreary look. From dark gothic lipsticks to mauve and violet eye shadows, this colour is sure to make a statement. Here’s how you can include the stunning Ultra Violet shade in your beauty routine.

Purple eyelids

One of the best ways to incorporate the regal hue into your makeup look is to accentuate your eyes with a slick of violet eye shadow. The fact is that a dab of purple eye shadow can upgrade your eye makeup. The best way to sport a purple smoky eye, without looking a little too extra, is to add some shimmer. Apply a creamy luminous shadow into the socket and over the lid for an instantly softer and more polished feel.

If you are not an expert when it comes to eye makeup and blending those eye shades, keep the application simple by choosing a highly pigmented creamy formula that you can blend into the lids with your fingers.

Ultra Violet liner

If you are not too confident to go for all-over colour on your eyelids or may feel it would give a harsh look, use Ultra Violet liquid eyeliner to enhance your eyes. If you are not into liquid liners, you can create a head-turning feline flick with purple eye pencil instead of black. Perfect for a night out, try outlining your lower lashes with ultraviolet-coloured pencil and add winged cat eye liner for a dramatic effect. Finish with heaps of black mascara to make your lashes stand out and don’t forget to conceal your under eye circles.

Let your lashes do the talking

Violet mascara can be your makeup staple this season. Coloured mascara can brighten the eye area as well as any eye shadow. Trade in the expected black mascara for a pretty purple formula and let your lashes take centre stage. Try lash volumizing mascara in Ultra Violet that will definitely give you the pigment and the punch that you are looking for. Make sure to opt for a no makeup look with purple lashes.

Pretty pouts

Are you one of those girls who would rock any look with pizzazz? So, go ahead and get evening-ready by swiping a rich Ultra Violet shade on the lips. From bewitching plums to amethyst, any violet hue will instantly add oomph to your overall look, making it a whole lot more interesting. Just remember to keep the rest of your makeup subtle and simple.

Nail affair

If going purple with your makeup sounds way too daring or quirky for your taste, then the easiest way to rock the trend is with a purple manicure. Ultra Violet is the perfect antidote to a neutral nail polish rut. It is not only low on effort, but it’s high on style. You can choose to go for all Ultra Violet or use deep violet shades for some cosmic nail art.

Glimmer away

Ultra Violet looks amazing in any finish, but sparkles elevate the dynamic purple, making it perfect for an evening soiree. Select a versatile loose glitter over your purple lip colour or as an accent in a smoky eye. You can even sprinkle some glitter in your hair – there are no rules.