Gothic eyes, lilac lips and cherry-stained cheeks... every season models strut down the catwalks pioneering daring new trends.

But if there's one fail-safe look that's permanently in fashion, it's nude make-up. And barely-there beauty is back for this spring.

The natural look was seen at countless key S/S09 shows - including Prada, D&G and Vivienne Westwood - making nudes a must-do trend yet again.

Take inspiration from Hollywood stars Cameron Diaz and Jennifer Aniston, who rarely veer away from the 'no make-up make-up' beauty ethos, whether they're walking the dog or the red carpet.

But appearances are deceptive, and although these natural beauties may look virtually cosmetic-free, a long stint in the make-up artist's chair has probably preceded that elusive fresh-faced glow.

"Nude make-up is definitely having a beauty moment right now, and is not that difficult to achieve once you know how," says celebrity make-up artist Karen Alder (www.karenaldercosmetics.com).

"Always moisturise well before applying make-up - you want the skin to look dewy and fresh. Then it's all about light, shade and glow techniques."

Want barely-there beauty? We show you how to get the knack of nude make-up.

Base

A face that looks flawless but make-up free is the secret to pulling off this season's tricky nude look. Ironically, it takes a whole lot of groundwork and cosmetics.

"Start by applying concealer with a small brush to blemishes and dark circles. Blend well and keep the amount of product down to a minimum," Karen advises.

"I love mineral powders, and always buy two shades, one in a lighter shade for down the centre and a slightly darker shade for contouring and bringing out the cheekbones.

"If you're used to a heavier base, try a fake tan for the face that's non-clogging to give you a great base colour."

Try - Prescriptives Flawless Total Protection Makeup SPF15, £26.91 (www.prescriptives.co.uk); Ruby & Millie Concealer Duo, £10.50 (Boots); MAC Mineralize Skinfinish Natural powder, £17.13 (www.maccosmetics.co.uk); Pixi Beauty Sheer Cheek Gel in Natural, £14 (www.pixibeauty.com).

Eyes

Don't go to the eye extreme of looking like you've just stepped out from the duvet with sleepy peepers.

For all-natural beauty you want to achieve an illusion of big, open eyes - without the look of thick liner and lashings of mascara.

"Make sure the brows are groomed perfectly as they frame your face," Karen says.

"Book in at a brow bar like Benefit to be shown how to define and groom your brows perfectly.

"This is key to the no make-up look; all of a sudden your eyes look more lifted and fresh. Getting your lashes tinted also helps to frame your eyes."

Try - Boots No7 Lash and Brow Perfector, £9.80; Clinique Naturally Glossy Mascara, £13.21 (www.clinique.co.uk); Jemma Kidd Lasting Lash Tint in Brown, £14.68 (Space NK); Revlon Colorstay Eyeshadow Quads In The Buff, £7.99 (0800 085 2716).

Lips

Lips don't have to be completely bare to look like they are.

It's essential you keep your pout in tip-top condition to get away with super-sheer lipsticks and glosses for a super-natural tint.

"Use a buffing salve for the lips as a night-time treatment and slick on a balm such as Rodial's Glam Balm in the day to plump your lips without looking too glossy," Karen suggests.

"Use a light dab of your favourite natural lip colour to liven up your face - without one you could end up looking too 'beige' and washed-out."

Try - The Body Shop Translucent Lip Care Stick, £8.30; Rodial Glam Balm, £60.68 (www.rodial.co.uk); Bobbi Brown Lip Gloss in Nude, £13.70 (www.bobbibrown.co.uk); Maybelline Moisture Extreme Naked Beige Lipstick, £4.88 (Boots).