I think starting from scracth If I were you I would invest in some basics which are easy to apply.
To start with I would say:
Tinted moisturiser. If you have never worn foundation it can be a bit of a jump - so tinted moisturiser would be a good starting point, as it is sheer and you can apply with your fingers, and will not show up inexpert application like some foundations can. Try that Oil of Olay one.
Concealer. If you are starting to get shadows under your eyes, and redness round your nose, this is worth investing in. I use the By Terry Touche Veloute, however cheaper versions can be found in Body Shop and Max Factor. Look for the type which you apply with a brush. You can then even out your skin tone.
Cream blusher. Just smile and apply to the apples of your cheeks. Less aging than powder blusher. Tesco Make Up does the best cream blusher bar none.
Sandy eyeshadow. Not one too matte, one with a wee bit of shimmer. Bourjois ones are very good, you can just smudge a bit on with your fingers.
Mascara. Dark brown is best. I just buy any old cheap waterproof version, as I hate the clumpy lashes effect you get with false lash effect type mascara.
Lip gloss. Such as Juicy Tube. Or if you don't like the gloosy look a pinky beige lipstick. I am not a huge fan of lipstick, but in my view Bourjois do good ones at the cheaper end of the market (presumably if you have never worn make up before, you don't want to go out and spend a fortune on stuff you may not like and will not use again).