welcome back Stila!

I distinctly remember the buzz when Stila was launched in 1994. It was fun and innovative whereby its creator, celebrity make-up artist Janine Lobell brought a personality to the brand. In fact, it was one of the few brands at that time that didn’t have a corporate identity and this made it exciting. The packaging was girly and cute, but the products were very directional which made it an eclectic mix.

But for one reason or another Stila disappeared from the UK but now this feisty brand is back in stores from July. And not a minute too soon. Meeting Stila’s Pro Artist Dominic Birguglio at the launch for beauty press last week, I can report that although the company has new backers, none of the creative enthusiasm and edge has been lost. It’s a brand that has stayed true to its original identity.

To refresh our memories, Dominic explained the Stila girl is fresh, playful, modern and everyone wants to talk to her at parties! It's make-up that encourages you to create your own signature style. I love the fact the Stila girl is represented with no nose – yes, it’s takes a while to figure out what’s missing! This is considered the most defining characteristic of the face and without it gives you the freedom and permission to create your own look.

So, what’s new on their menu? Well, as Dominic revealed it’s smart make-up with lots of wizardry and One Step Bronze, £24 sure pushes the boundaries. A pick-me-up for the skin, it’s a triple swirled helix serum which performs as a bronzer, primer, illuminator and moisturiser. There’s also the new, revolutionary Forever Your Curl Mascara, £15 which is said to give the effect of a permed eye lash. An intense carbon black it really turbocharges the lashes. And for the ‘vintage’ Stila fans there’s still the all time favourites including Lip Glaze and Convertible Color – dual lip and cheek cream.

Stila, it’s been a while, but absence has made my beauty heart grow fonder, and I’m glad you’re back!

Stila will be available at Boots Beauty Stores and boots.com. Also at ASOS.com and lookfantastic.com. From September onwards, it will be available at select Selfridges, Harvey Nichols and House of Fraser stores.