Beauty: You never forget your first love…
Mine was 17, and thanks to its recent relaunch it’s back with hero buys for all ages
17’s 1968 launch even HAD an advice booklet
To be fair, 17, the Boots own brand, has only been gone for about four years. The revival has been worked on for the past 18 months but, officially, it was discontinued in 2018 – a decision that caused an outcry on every customer platform from Twitter to old-fashioned letter writing.
So I like to think of it as more of a hibernation of this much-loved and long-lauded label (it was first launched in 1968). It has re-emerged as high quality and low priced as ever, complete with streamlined packaging, a redesigned logo and plenty of products that, no matter your age, are excellent stalwart options for your make-up bag. Because although 17’s core customers are in their 20s, the truth is its formulas are both top-notch and lightweight, and the pigment options more subtle than attention grabbing, so it works well for everyone.
A 1972 ad for ITS ultra-bright eyeshadow
As for my favourites, the Glow + Define Bronzer (£2.50) is excellent. It isn’t fully matt but it isn’t remotely shimmery either and is easy to build up. The Colour Glow Cream Blush (£4) delivers a light but buildable dash of colour. While the Eyeshadow Palettes give an option of nine shades in a mix of matt and shimmer finishes, with easily workable textures and yours for just £5. If you prefer a one-shade shot, then opt for a Shadow Pop (£2).
Left, a 1985 revamp came with a new-look logo; right, nail polish revolutionised, 1998
Fans of 17’s cult Ink Legend Tattoo Eyeliner (£4.50) will be glad to know it’s back and better than ever. Lastly, the Second Skin Enhancing Foundation (£5) is a hydrating, medium-coverage formula currently available in 20 shades, with more coming.
The range, which is vegan and cruelty-free, is out now and available at boots.com.
@edwinaingschambers
A DREAM CLEAN FROM TRINNY
It’s surely no surprise to anyone who follows her that Trinny Woodall has now launched her own skincare products. After all, her Instagram feed is practically a scrolling emporium of skincare information.
Her range has a triumphant start with two cleansers to act as the basics of a routine (though expect a gradual rollout of a full collection to add to her Trinny London make-up).
Her Be Your Best Enzyme Balm Cleanser (£32) is a lightweight oil-based formula that’s great for removing make-up and sunscreen and comes with its own muslin cloth (called a T-Towel, get it?). It gets full marks from me: it does its job well, washes off easily and has a gentle hint of a cheery Italian summer smell. While it is suitable for all skin types, it is especially good for normal to dry.
There’s also her Better Off AHA/PHA Gel Cleanser (£28), a gentle chemical exfoliation option to lift off dirt and go that little bit further. It suits all skin types but is particularly good for oily. To double cleanse, use the balm then the gel. Both offer refill options (£26 and £22 respectively) and they’re available from trinnylondon.com.
I can’t wait to see what’s next.