Body & beauty

California dreaming

Natural Health’s holistic beauty guru on how to look good when the sun shines

Natural Health’s holistic beauty guru on how to look good when the sun shines
In my opinion there truly is nothing more exquisite than watching a horse in peak condition racing; the pure synergy between horse and rider; the magnificent grace and the heart pounding excitement. All in all, it gives you a fantastic rush that even provides the added benefit of a glow to your complexion!

Royal Ascot, which takes place in June, is an historic and revered British tradition on the summer social calendar. Steeped in heritage and dating back almost 300 years, it is one of the world’s greatest race meetings. So, it is with excitement that I head to the track for this scintillating summer tradition. However, before donning my finest attire I am visited by that burgeoning fear that every girl past puberty feels at the thought of emerging, larvae-like, from her winter shell into summer sunshine in flimsy finery; the looming horror of exposing blue limbs! So a quick tip if you don’t have time to go for a spray tan or to apply a proper self-tan is to get a speedy golden glow by lavishing your legs in body lotion then topping off with your favourite facial foundation rubbed in.

Looking the part

I was completely green when I came to the social scene in the UK; an American newcomer who knew nothing at all about how to dress appropriately or what to do. I was nervous and insecure; dying to make a good impression in this world I knew nothing about with gorgeous men and stunning horses, glasses of champagne clinking and everybody looking jubilant and in the know. I clipped along in too high, too pointy heels that ultimately needed more treading in than the divots created by the horses. My long hair whipped up in the breeze and infuriatingly kept getting stuck to my lip gloss. I vowed to embrace the rules of etiquette and appearance in future. So, this is what I have learned so far:

Remember to take a tip from the fillies on the field before you take to the course in full racing regalia; manes and tails in mint condition are a must, so aim for silky tresses. Make-up should be minimal, clean and fresh, so watch our for caking disasters that are all the more noticeable in broad daylight. First up, always use a tinted sunscreen moisturiser for a golden glow. Enhance those cheekbones with Aubrey Organics Silken Earth Range Powder Blush, £10.99, and long-lasting lipstick in pale tones. I would recommend their Natural Lips Pink Pearl, £6.99, to provide up-to-the-minute subtle sexiness. A quick curling of lashes and a coating of Nvey Eco Organic Mascara, £14.50, in black, and you’re good to go.

What to wear

Now, because weather conditions are always questionable, and what starts out sunny can quickly turn to showers, I also recommend a sleek pony tail or a style with braids, so that you’re as immaculately groomed at the end of the event as you were at the start. Remember to wear a sensible shoe! No, not orthopaedic numbers but a gorgeous little pump to allow fluid movement instead of that sinking feeling as your six inch heels root you to the spot. Keep your dress simple and chic; just remember it might get chilly. Did I say might? It will get chilly! Invest in a new trench coat to cover all your bases.

So, you see I have learned a few more tools to present a proper public front, but every time I do have to appear, I still have a twang of that girl I used to be – worrying about how fabulous everyone else will look and feeling insecure about me. Yet the most important thing is to be able to step back and take in all the beauty and grandeur around me and not let it intimidate me. Instead, I appreciate how lucky I am to be part of it; feeling the breeze; feeling the sun; smelling the grass and able to see the true beauty in living life to the full.

“Watch out for caking disasters that are all the more noticeable in broad daylight”

Normandie believes we should all take a little time to unwind and pamper ourselves which is the ethos behind her skin and body care lines: Recapture, Reinvent, Rejuvenate and Radiance. Available exclusively at Tesco Nationwide, 0800 505555. Prices start from £3.95.

Article by

Normandie Keith

Holistic beauty guru

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Article by

Normandie Keith

Holistic beauty guru

Discover more