Emerald beauty

It’s also the perfect complementary colour to peaches, pinks, roses, ruby reds and aubergines, offering a variety of lipstick and blush combinations to experiment with.

‘‘Emerald is easy to wear once you think minimal, sleek and graphic,’’ says Lesley Keane, MAC senior artist. ‘‘Look backstage at spring/summer 13 catwalks such as Kenzo or Stella McCartney.

Models for both shows wore a modernised liner shape against a neutral face.’’ For a more natural take on the emerald eye, simply outline the inner eye liner with green kohl.

‘‘My best advice for pulling off this look is to focus on the eyes, leaving a neutral pallet elsewhere,’’ says Keane.

‘‘Don’t use too much bronzer; stick to a natural sun-kissed look by using a honey-toned bronzer and finish with a lip conditioner or neutral lip colour.’’ And there’s no need for dramatic cocktail rings with emerald decorating your fingertips. You can wear your nail polish as a statement accessory.

‘‘Avoid wearing all green if you’re wearing an emerald-inspired nail polish,’’ warns Jenni Draper, Mavala Nail Ambassador. “A jewelled ring or necklace should complement without being overkill."

Add an emerald glitter top coat for a dazzling finish, or opt for a matte top coat if you’re seeking a rich, velvety effect.

Use your colouring as a guide to choosing your perfect emerald polish – contrasting darker shades of green against fair skin can be striking.

“Green isn’t the easiest colour to wear but experiment with different shades. Darker skin tones can generally carry off green better but if you’re a bit worried, try it on your toes first before wearing it on your hands,” says Draper.

“A nice short, neat nail will give you a much more subtle look but if you want to make an impact then go for a long oval or stiletto nail, a la Rihanna, to really make a statement.”