This holiday season Chanel has launched their classic No. 5 Eau de Parfum ($160 for 3.4 fl oz/ 100 ml) and No. 5 L’Eau ($160 for 3.4 fl oz/ 100 ml) in limited-edition red bottles. Right now Chanel.com has the early exclusive until November 1, 2018. It will be available online and at select boutiques from November 2, 2018 to December 31, 2018. I’ve been a fan of the L’eau version for a light powdery floral. It had been a long time since I tested the original No. 5 Chanel and was thrilled for a chance to try it from Chanel. The bottle is a deep red in the classic glass shape. Depending on how much light hits the bottle you’ll see different intensities of red color and I think it’s just beautiful!
Chanel describes the No. 5 Eau de Parum as an “unprecedented use of aldehydes, which add layers of complexity, N°5 was the world’s first abstract fragrance. The Eau de Parfum draws inspiration from the Parfum, sharing its floral aldehyde signature. This floral bouquet composed around May Rose and Jasmine features bright citrus top notes. Aldehydes create a unique presence while the smooth touch of Bourbon Vanilla leaves an incredibly sensual trail.”
I think most of you are familiar with this scent, it’s a classic! I smell rose, jasmin and a hint of powdery florals mixed in. They list vanilla as one of the notes but I cannot detect it. It’s ultra feminine and has very long lasting power. By comparison the No 5 L’Eau is lighter, brighter and does not last as long, with perfumes it’s something I don’t mind as I love to reapply, I often keep minis on hand with me.
It’s a classic for sure. Floral, feminine and has a soft powdery feel. If you like the L’Eau version better it also comes in the limited-edition red bottle for the holiday season.
The Chanel No 5 and No 5 L’Eau are available exclusively at CHANEL.com from now until November 1, 2018. Available online and at select boutiques from November 2, 2018 to December 31, 2018. Retail price for each is $160 for 3.4 fl oz/ 100 ml. In the post I’m also wearing Le Vernis in Rouge Puissant (reviewed here) and Rouge Allure Velvet Extreme in #116 Extreme (swatched here).
Have you tried this one before? What’s your classic perfume scent? I always love reading about your favorites, let me know in the comments.
Holiday beauty launches are in full swing and today I have a look at the NARS Holiday 2018 Collection. This is quite the massive launch with lots of palettes and sets. There are individual pieces as well and some of the products are exclusive to specific retailers. In addition a few items are online only so if you’re shopping places like Sephora or Ulta, I’d recommend checking online first and make your list to save a trip to the store! I received a large press package and dove right in to play! Due to the large number of items it has taken me a long time to swatch and test every single piece. There are some products I did not receive so check online for different variations and palettes.
What I have to review today:
Hot Tryst Cheek Palette ($59) with Kings Road, Swindle, Untamed, Friction, Bowery and Adrenaline
For the cheeks there are three palettes. Hot Tryst, High Voltage and Orgasm Infatuation. I think there are two hits and one semi-miss. Thoughts and swatches below.
Hot Tryst has six colors with a texture/finish that reminds me of the dual-intensity blushes. They’re cream to power and all shimmery. Texture and finish is smooth with sheer-medium color. You can build more intensity with layering or a dense brush. Colors include a pale shimmery pink, soft muted pink, magenta shimmer, champagne gold shimmer, soft peach shimmer and a pink-red shimmer. This is my favorite of the three. Lasting power is excellent. I think every single color is perfect! Swatched with a heavy hand below:
The next two are trios one is a highlighting palette called High Voltage with three pale highlighters in 1977 a pale champagne, Fort de France available individually, and queen a soft light peachy gold shimmer. I did not have time to swatch or pull side by sides but this has an exisiting shade and as a very similar vibe to two previous trios Banc de Sable and Reve Sale. If you have either of those or Fort de France, I think you can safely skip this one. That being said the colors perform well with soft sheer shimmer. If you’re one who doesn’t want frost and needs a subtle glow this is a nice option.
Then there is the Orgasm Infatuation Palette which is sheer on my medium tan skin. I can make it work better by layering or putting it on top of a cream blush. Based on the vast number of positive reviews on this I think I might have a dud or just be too tan. This has the classic Laguna Bronzer and Orgasm Blush, both of which swatch ok on the arm, but on the face apply sheer. There’s also an Orgasm Highlighting Blush which I find very beautiful and pigmented. It’s the perfect soft peachy highlighter which I hope they will consider making individually full size.
For the eyes the Provocateur Eyeshadow Palette was a surprising hit for me! I say surprise because at first glance the colors looked like they would be too cool. I was really impressed with the pigment and the mix of colors and the brick red layered make for an incredibly unique smokey eye. Colors include Vinyl a duochrome vanilla with pink shimmer, Endless Party matte deep red, Exploit a shimmering brown with blue-violet flashes, Screech sparkling silver, Smash it Up deep shimmery navy, Not for Sale deep plum. Pigment is smooth and some of the shades are sparkly but I don’t think it’s quite to the level I can call glitter. I don’t think I have anything like it! Scroll to the bottom for a look with this palette.
I was completely overwhelmed by all the lip options. There is a lot to process with the sets! Many of these lip colors are retailer exclusive and I have a few missing so definitely do some research before deciding on which one to buy if you’re interested.
For the Velvet Matte Lip Pencil there are a few sets I have swatched. Update- lip swatches added! I found all of these performed well on the lips. They can look a little dry depending on what your natural lips look like. Pigment is even and smooth though and I find they apply smoothly.
Individually there are new Powermatte Lip Lusters which are shimmery versions of the Powermatte Lip Pigments. I think these are solid winners. The formula is shimmery and metallic but very wearable and lasting power is excellent. Anytime anyone asks for a recommendation on a good budge-proof lipstick I always say most lipstick is going to transfer, but the NARS Powermattes are good.
I’m in love with all but one of the colors which include:
Hardcore is a metallic pink gold copper
Shredded is a muted brown shimmer
Shatter is a shimmering mauve
Pierce is a metallic brick red on my lips
Combat is the perfect deep shimmery plum
Blackheart this is the only color I do not like, it applies and performs well, color is just very scary looking on my complexion
Swatches:
Then there are the Spiked Audacious Lipsticks in three shade options. Each color also exclusive to specific retailers. I do think this makes it a little confusing with all these exclusives. Sometimes it can be fun to hunt them down but for me during the holidays I don’t really want to be hopping from store to store! Online shopping does make it all a million times easier but only if you know what you want. Formula is true to the Audacious formula – super creamy, smooth, not heavy and has a slight sheen for a finish. Every time I wear one of these it makes me wonder why I don’t wear these all the time.
Then there are the Little Fetishes sets which have minis of cheeks and lips. These make for really cute stocking stuffers! A quick peek at the Laguna/Fort de France Duo and Mona/Rita Lipstick Duo. I didn’t swatch because I’m keeping these as gifts!
Beauty look wearing the following items along with another closer look at my new highlights! Also I know in one of the photos it looks like I’m applying something on the cheeks with an eyeshadow brush – I assure you I’m not! It’s just one of the eyeshadow pictures I took but I was lowering the brush.
NARS Velvet Matte Lip Pencil in Vicious from the Manic Set *
That wraps up my NARS holiday 2018 collection review! There’s a lot to look at and as usual I would say my recommendations for palettes should be based on the colors you think you’re drawn to or think you will wear. Quality-wise most everything performed well for me. I would say the misses are the Orgasm Infatuation Palette, Blackheart Powermatte Lip Luster and if you have very dry lips you will need to use a primer under the Matte Lip Pencils but I think some of the colors and really good. My top picks: Hot Tryst Cheek Palette, Provocateur Eyeshadow Palette, Audacious Lipsticks in Sheen and Siouxsie and the Powermatte Lip Luster in Combat.
The Sephora Holiday Beauty Insider Event starts today for Rouge Members! Sephora Beauty Insider members of different tiers will be able to shop the event on different weekends throughout the next few weeks. If you’re a Rouge Member you will have two weekends to shop. The event dates, details and discount codes per tier below (available both online and in store):
Rouge get 20% Off 10/26-10/29 and 11/2-11/5 with code: ROUGEBONUS
VIB get 20% off 11/9-11/12 with code: VIBBonus
Insiders/ Non-BI members get 15% off 11/16-11/19 with code: BIBONUS
There are some restrictions, the fine print for ROUGE, “20% offer valid for Rouge members on merchandise purchases made from 10/26/18 through 10/29/18 at 11:59pm PT and from 11/2/18 through 11/5/18 at 11:59pm PT in Sephora U.S. stores, Sephora Canada stores, Sephora inside JCPenney stores, and online. Offer not valid on jcp.com. On Friday, 10/26/18 in stores only, Rouge client and one guest of Rouge who is a member of the Beauty Insider program and is present at the time of redemption will be eligible for 20% off all merchandise purchases, along with a sample set free with any merchandise purchase. Sample set offer valid only in Sephora U.S. and Canada stores and Sephora inside JCPenney stores; assortment may vary. Limit of one sample set per Rouge client and one per guest and provided on a first-come basis. Quantities are limited. Not valid on purchases of customizable sets online, through Sephora’s Customer Service. Not valid on Google products. Clients are limited to the purchase of one Dyson item, three Drunk Elephant items, and three Tatcha items per SKU per transaction. Not valid on previous purchases, purchases of gift cards or eGift cards, FLASH, PLAY! by Sephora, gift wrapping, packaging, taxes, or shipping & handling charges. Return of discounted merchandise will be for the price actually paid. Sephora is not responsible for damaged, lost, or stolen promotional barcodes. Promotions have no cash value and may not be altered, sold, or transferred. Rouge status must be attained prior to redemption. No minimum purchase required. Due to heavy demand, Sephora FLASH delivery times cannot be guaranteed for this promotion. Not valid on orders shipping outside the U.S. or Canada. Cannot be used in conjunction with other promotion codes or Rouge Reward. Sephora and JCPenney employees are not eligible for these offers. Offers are subject to change, alteration, or termination by Sephora at its sole discretion at any time.”
I’ve split my recommendations into two posts. The first one today focuses on skincare, hair care and body favorites. So many readers have asked for more hair and skin recommendations over makeup, but that roundup is coming soon! For my makeup gurus I’m working on getting swatches of new NARS, a concealer roundup, Pat McGrath launches, Marc Jacobs Holiday and some Louboutin items up for you ASAP!
As a beauty blogger I put a lot of products to the extensive test, both purchased items and press samples. Skin care is always tricky for me because of the time it takes to see results along with the expectations I have with what “visible results” are. Other things such as seasonal changes, diet, aging, stress, hormones, that time of the month etc. all play a big factor as well. When it comes to testing skin care I recommend trying minis if you’re unsure. Sets are always great to try things first if you’re unsure about recommendations, reviews or ingredients. The one thing I appreciate most about the Sephora site is that they have more ingredients listed for product compared to any other retailer I shop at.
Skincare Face Cleansers
I love having testing different cleansers! Out of all the skincare categories I think I like cleansers and masks the most. My favorites:
Kate Somerville Eradikate Cleanser – If I had to use one face cleanser for the rest of my life, this would be the ONE. It has sulfur which helps with texture issues, remove impurities and keep pores clear. She has different formulas developed for different skin types and needs. I’ve tried every single one and alternate depending on how my skin feels. Her Kate Somerville Exfolikate Cleanser is also excellent.
Farmacy Clean Bee Ultra Gentle Facial Cleanser is a great option for those who want a green option. I’d recommend it for normal to oily skin. If you have dry skin, it might be too stripping in which case I’d suggest anything from First Aid Beauty like the classic Face Cleanser.
Farmacy Green Clean Makeup Meltaway Cleansing Balm * is great for those of us who need to double cleanse or remove makeup first but don’t want liquid oil running all over your arms, face and sink. This is my go-to makeup remover for the face and I think it’s better than the Clinique one which is still pretty darn good.
I feel like exfoliation is key to having clear skin, but face scrubs are so personal. What one’s skin can tolerate truly depends on what other items are being used in a routine. If you’re using acids, peels, Vitamin C or retinols on a regular basis your skin sensitivity will be increased significantly and therefore you might not be able to use certain products. For me I keep acids and peels to a minimum (although I do want to try more). I don’t use Vitamin C on a regular basis.
Fresh Sugar Face Polish is my favorite because it’s hydrating and also melts/dissolves into my face.
Kate Somerville Exfolikate is a classic with lactic acid and fruit enzymes to exfoliate the skin, it will tingle, so if you have ultra sensitive skin try the Gentle Version instead.
Jack Black Face Buff is Andrew’s favorite. He’s tried all of mine and several other men’s brands but says this is hands down the best and insists it’s better than any of mine.
Tatcha Rice Enzyme Powders aren’t really exfoliator scrubs, but I use them as a cleanser/exfoliator. If you have ultra sensitive skin I think these are great alternatives to face scrubs.
Skincare Moisturizers & Oils
Eve Lom White Brightening Cream is one of the most gentle face moisturizers I’ve tried with ingredients to combat dullness and pigment issues. I haven’t noticed that my sun spots have faded but it does brighten subtly, lift and tone. It calms the skin and makes it smooth. This is my fourth jar!
Kate Somerville Exfolikate Glow Moisturizer is an interesting concept because it has exfoliating ingredients, but doesn’t make you peel like the name implies. It has both glycolic and lactic acids that help with uneven skin texture. It hydrates nicely and adds the perfect amount of moisture.
La Mer Moisturizing Soft Lotion and Moisturizing Matte Lotion are Andrew’s favorites. He liked the Soft Lotion when we were in San Diego and for the cooler months here in Florida. For most of the hot seasons he prefers the Matte Version for a lightweight finish.
Drunk Elephant Protini Polypeptide Cream is one of two Drunk Elephant products I’ve tried and like. It’s suitable for any skin type and I like that it feels nice on the skin – it has the perfect texture and amount of moisture.
Eve Lom Radiance Oil is another one I just started using at night. I had finished my Kiehl’s and L’Occitane favorites and decided to try a few new ones. This one is really hydrating and lasts through the night. I think it’s going to be perfect for winter months ahead as we’re going into the dry season.
Skincare Extras: Masks, Mists, Treatments
Fresh Mask For Miles Set * has four of my favorite Fresh items, Black Tea Instant Perfecting Mask, Lotus Youth Preserve Rescue Mask, Sugar Face Polish and Rose Face Mask. I think this one makes the perfect gift for anyone, especially the hard to shop for!
Fresh Rose Floral Toner is one I actually use more as a face mist, it’s alcohol-free and is a nice soothing face mist. I like to apply this before workouts.
Glamglow Supermud is my holy grail clarifying mask, it sucks out impurities, excess oil, unclogs pores.
Drunk Elephant Sukari Baby Facial is a favorite of mine and Andrew’s. We’re going to stock up on this one during the event. It’s a great resurfacing product that really does work over several uses and leaves skin feeling super soft.
Ouai Scalp and Body Scrub is scented in their rose scent. I haven’t used it on the hair, it was just so amazing as a body scrub I kept using it like that until it was all gone. I felt like couldn’t live without it so I bought another jar before the sale started.
REN Atlantic Kelp and Magnesium Salt Scrub is supposed to be an anti-fatigue body scrub. I bought this as I had really sore muscles after starting to lift weights. This made for a nice soak and hydrated the skin without leaving a greasy film.
Supergoop! Everyday Sunscreen with SPF 50 is my holy grail of body sunscreens. It’s easy to reapply, isn’t greasy, doesn’t smell like sunscreen and it’s transparent (no white cast). We’ve also found it effective in intense Florida sunshine.
Kopari Coconut Deodorant * is my go-to deodorant right now, it’s natural, lightweight, applies smoothly and keeps odor away (also available as a mini in this Beauty Besties Set).
Kopari Coconut Melt is the best overnight body treatment I use for extra dry skin.
Jo Malone Colognes are something I never see go on sale, so the event is a great time to save. My two favorites are Wood Sage and Sea Salt and Basil and Neroli. The layering combinations are endless and fun to play around with.
Hair Care Favorites
Everything about my hair care routine is going to change now that I just got highlights. So many of you have given me amazing color-safe shampoo recommendations. Since they recommend not washing your hair for 72 hours after the process I’ve been ok without any options, but I’m going to check them out this weekend. In the meantime items I swear by:
Aquis Lisse Luxe Long Hair Towel is something I discovered this year and really love it! I suddenly found it kept disappearing on me. Andrew did not know it was a hair towel, found it in the clean laundry pile, liked the texture and absorbent quality so much he decided to steal it and use it for during and post-work out sweat. I’ve since ordered a few more in the regular length and Waffle Texture to try and keep one as my own.
Aquis Prime Starter Kit * this is something I just started testing, it’s a four piece set with products and a turban to prevent hair breakage. I’ll have a more detailed review soon, but think it’s excellent.
Moroccanoil Treatment * is a classic multi-tasker, I use it pre-heat and as a finishing product. I also love the way it smells! Been purchasing this for years but one shown was gifted.
IGK Dry Shampoos are among my favorite. They had a limited-edition trio of minis online and I bought a few as I like the smaller size to carry in my totes. Jet Lag is my favorite for my hair, but all three are amazing. No white residue on any of the formulas.
Ouai Hair Oil another favorite for the hair, it’s a nice lightweight oil. Scent is floral and strong and might not be everyone’s cup of tea but I love how it performs.
Lip Treatments
Bite Beauty Agave Lip Mask is my favorite lip treatment I think is going to work for any skin type. They have clear and tinted versions (swatches of Champagne, Lavender, Maple and Smashed here)
Fresh Sugar Lip Treatment Advance Zodiac * is a fun way to gift someone a lip balm that’s a little more personalized if it matches their zodiac sign! These are listed as online only. I received a few in the mail and think they’re so fun. I’ve tried the regular non-limited edition packaging one and think it’s better than the regular lip treatment, although the tinted ones are super fun too.
Dior Addict Lip Glow is something I actually consider more makeup than skincare, but I know some of you consider it skincare! It’s the best color-transforming balm I’ve tried. Perfect for an easy look and nice to reapply. It’s tough to pick just one shade, my favorite is Coral.
To keep on with my tradition with my Sephora Beauty Insider Event roundups, I’m doing another giveaway! I’m giving away one $250 eGift Card to Sephora. Open internationally, 18 years and older. Giveaway is going to run through November 1st. For a chance to win enter by using the steps in the widget below. I’ll select one person via the widget within 48 hours after giveaway ends. Not sponsored or affiliated.
Reviewing some more Hourglass Cosmetic holiday launches today with swatches and thoughts on their limited-edition Ambient Lighting Edit Palette Volume 4 ($80 for 1.3 g x 6) + Confession Lipstick Duo ($34 for 2 lipsticks). Everything is limited-edition and comes in metallic lavender pink packaging.
I already reviewed the Ambient Lighting Edit Palette Unlocked Edition earlier in the month but received so many requests to compare it to the Volume 4 Palette. The two have a similar luminous feel, Unlocked has all new shades while Volume 4 has mostly repeats. The shades are easy to wear and have a range of setting powder, highlight, bronzer and blush.
Luminous Glow Blush – new, shimmery peach with champagne (similar to Incandescent Electra, but this one is deeper)
Euphoric Fusion – swirled champagne highlight with mauve plum shimmer
Because the reflection of the packaging plays tricks on my eyes depending on light, I have two close ups. In indoor lighting below:
In direct sunlight:
The palette performs really well. Part of me wishes it had all new shades. Even the new ones have a similar vibe to existing colors. I do really love this one, I think I prefer it to Unlocked. I find it works better for my skintone and has more of what I’m looking for in an entire look. Unlocked is still very pretty, it just runs darker on my skin. Everything has smooth application. The texture is the same quality as individual products. Skin is left luminous and glowing. Shimmers don’t emphasize pores. Lasting power is excellent.
There are a few lip set options this holiday, I ordered the Confession Lipstick Duo with My One Desire and At Night. I neglected to check my stash and didn’t realize I already had these from previous launches until I swatched them. These come with one case (the pink tube) and the black case is the refill. You can definitely use the lipstick without the metallic case. My One Desire is a neutral cool mauve pink, At Night is a deep brick red. Both perform true to the Confession Lipstick formula – ultra creamy, opaque, smooth and long lasting. I still think these are among the most overpriced lipsticks on the market, but the quality, color selection and finish are truly excellent. A look at the Hourglass Confession Lipstick Duo My One Desire and At Night vs original Gold Packaging. All the existing Confession Ultra Slim Lipsticks swatched here.
Quality-wise everything is excellent. I’m really happy with the palette even though I have repeats. I always find them convenient for on-the-go or travel. All this said if you already own some Hourglass powders or palettes I’d recommend that you shop your stash. If you’ve never splurged on an Hourglass Ambient Lighting powder the palettes are a great way to dive into the line. Quality is great and even though the price of palettes is steep it’s a nice way to try multiple colors and finishes rather than buying individual colors which add up to more. Yes, value-wise price per ounce or gram the palettes are not the smartest buy. I also feel this way about the lipsticks but have mentioned numerous times the quality is excellent.
I bought my holiday picks from Sephora. The limited-edition pink packaging is also available at Hourglass Cosmetics, Nordstrom, Neiman Marcus, Beautylish and Barneys New York. Don’t forget that tomorrow is the start of the Sephora VIB Sale so if you have this on your wishlist you might want to save it for the event! Recs and roundup to go live soon 🙂
Have you checked out any of the Hourglass holiday launches this year yet? What did you think?
I’m on a Charlotte Tilbury kick with another review on some holiday launches. I reviewed the Stars In Your Eyes Palette a couple weeks ago and love it, but I received an overwhelming number of requests to also review her Luxury Palette of Pops Supersonic Girl. I ordered it before it sold out and also added some of her Superstar Lips to my online shopping cart. Thoughts, swatches and review today.
The Luxury Palette of Pops comes in two color options, I opted for the warmer Supersonic Girl because it launched first. It has already sold out at both Nordstrom and Charlotte Tilbury, I don’t know if they will restock. I hope I can ease your mind if you missed out. It’s good, but not as good as her Stars in Your Eyes or the NARS Singapore Eyeshadow Quad.
There are four glistening shadows that have intense microsparkle. It’s like finely milled glitter that glides onto the lids. The color is very sheer but you can still see color once applied on the lids. The shades include a glistening pink, warm orange shimmer, shimmering warm brown, and warm red sparkle. I love the pink and brown, the orange and red both kinda morph into the same color on my eyes and it’s very very warm. I think it’s beautiful but more of a party palette or layering for me. As a stand alone it doesn’t have deep enough shades to do a whole eye look for me as I prefer having at least one darker shade I can use as a liner or to smoke out. The Stars in Your Eyes is very different even though there are a few similar tones. To me this one is a better buy because of the versatility and color range.
She also launched a new lipstick formula called Superstar Lips. There are four shades Happy Lips, Walk of Shame, Pillow Talk and Confident Lips at Nordstrom and Charlotte Tilbury. Additionally there are two shades in Sexy Lips and Wild Lips exclusive to Charlotte Tilbury’s website. I ordered four from Nordstrom sight unseen.
These are an ultra slim glossy lipstick. Formula is semi-thick and glossy. They feel lush on the lips and are definitely not weightless. I think the formula is really really good but they’re super tiny especially for the price. They’re $34 each for 1.8 g, one of my Matte Revolution boxes says the formula is 3.5 g for the same price. Granted I have so many lipsticks so I’m not worried about using up colors or running out. I still think for the amount/size they should have lowered the price. They are scented in the same vanilla scent her other lipsticks have. The color stays put for hours, it didn’t slide around even though it’s glossy. Although if you’re lips are prone to having product slide around, I’d recommend you add one of her Lip Cheat pencils on your lips first.
Happy Lips is my favorite, it’s a happy coral peach color. Walk of Shame is a warm glossy red. Pillow Talk is similar to the matte Pillow Talk, it’s a nude pink, I prefer the matte version because it shows up better on my lips. Confident Lips looks black in the tube but has that Clinique Black Honey vibe, it goes on a deep wine plum.
Overall I do think the Luxury Palette of Pops has a great formula for glitter sparkles. The colors in general are too warm for me to wear alone and also very sheerish on my medium tan complexion. It’s going to be perfect for the holiday season but you can get a similar effect by using similar shades and popping one of the Hourglass Scattered Light shadows on top. I think her Superstar Lips are really good with a beautiful glossy sheen. For the price they are extremely small. My favorite is Confident Lips – it’s the perfect deep fall holiday color that will look different on everyone but I still think flattering regardless of skin tone.
I bought the Super Sonic Girl and Superstar Lips at Nordstrom. Hoping she will restock the palette for those who wanted it! Also available online at Charlotte Tilbury. Did you check these out yet? What did you think?
MAC launched a new formula of matte lip color called Powder Kiss Lipstick ($19 each for 3 g/0.1 oz, made in Italy). These were seen all over the backstage beauty photos in recent fashion week coverage and I thought these were going to be too trendy for me but was pleasantly surprised. Long time readers know I really do not like matte lips. These are described as, “A moisture-matte weightless lipstick that delivers a romantic blur of effortless soft-focus colour.” Depending on your lipstick finish preference these are going to be hit or miss for you. For me these are a solid win.
The Powder Kiss Lipstick has a soft blurred matte finish without looking or feeling dry. They have a weightless texture and finish that almost feels like it’s wearing an airy cloud on the lips. The finish is cushiony with full smooth coverage and I am truly surprised at how lightweight it is. MAC describes these as having moisture-coated powder pigments which seems so interesting to me. They’re not really as hydrating as a lip balm, but I do think they have some moisture in them given the fact that they do not look dry on the lips.
I tried these individually on their own. I suspect with some of the lighter shades you can mix and blend together for an ombre lip or to create your own custom color. There is only one shade that didn’t work for me by itself which is the palest option Best of Me. Still it applied smoothly without any patchy issues.
The packaging is just like the regular MAC Lipsticks but it has a slightly matte finish resembling the finish of the lipstick formula. Some have commented on the scent of these. I didn’t notice it while swatching or playing with them until I gave them a good whiff right out of the tube. It has MAC lipstick scent with a powdery slightly rubber smell. It’s not strong enough to bother me but it is noticeable. I consider my nose to be sensitive and it did not bother me.
First a look at all the shades plus descriptions:
Best of Me is a pale milky beige
Influentially It is a pale nude beige
Impulsive is a medium warm brown
Sweet No Sugar is a light warm pink
My Tweedy is a peachy pink blush nude
Scattered Petals is a medium pink
Sultriness is a cool toned pink
Mull It Over is a peach pink-brown
Devoted to Chili is a brick red brown
Mandarin O is a bright orange
A Little Tamed is a muted pink rose
Lasting Passion is a bright red with blue pink tones
Style Shocked is a vibrant coral orange
Fall In Love is a hot pink
Shocking Revelation is a hot pink red
Burning Love is a perfect plum
A closer look at the lighter neutrals, Best of Me, Influentially It, Impulsive, Sweet No Sugar, My Tweedy, Scattered Petals, Sultriness and Mull it Over.
Deeper bold shades including Devoted to Chili, Mandarin O, A Little Tamed, Lasting Passion, Style Shocked, Fall In Love, Shocking Revelation, Burning Love.
Bottom line I’m impressed, especially since I’m a glossy lip girl. I really like how these glide on and give a blurred lip effect without looking or feeling dry. There’s no tugging at the lip when you apply. I also love the weightless feel. They did not dry out my lips. Lasting power is very good, it stays on and adheres well without fading for hours. Color isn’t transfer-proof though. My top 3 picks: Burning Love, My Tweedy and Sultriness.
A few thoughts on this formula compared to a few others I’ve tried and like. MAC Matte Lipsticks are heavier and more opaque in finish with a thicker feel. Pat McGrath Matte Trance has more impact pigment-wise, it has more weight to it while the MAC Powder Kiss feels like air. Charlotte Tilbury Matte Revolution almost feels like it drags on the lips by comparison, and in reality it doesn’t really drag on my lips, but if you swipe it compared to the MAC Powder Kiss, the MAC glides on easier/smoother.
Happy Weekend! Taking a quick break from reviewing new makeup launches to highlight some other things I’ve had in rotation that I’ve been loving. This is a mini peek at some things I’ll be expanding on soon. Working on more hair care stories, fall fragrance and skin care roundups by popular request so stay tuned!
Top Row: Chanel La Creme Main Texture Riche, Sisley Black Rose Cream Mask, Simplehuman Sensor Mirror Compact, Armani Luminous Silk Foundation 6.5
Middle Row: Drunk Elephant TLC Sukari Baby Facial, Fresh Sugar Face Polish, Chanel Les Eaux de Chanel Venise, Chanel Les 4 Ombres Clair Obscur
Bottom Row: Byredo Bal d’Afrique, Ouai Hair Oil, Bite Beauty Agave Lip Masks in Maple and Champagne, Sisley Hair Rituel Hair Oil
Simplehuman Sensor Mirror Compact
So many of you have been asking for a review on the Simplehuman Sensor Mirror Compact. I’ve featured it on Instagram a few times and have found it to be quite handy. It comes in several different color options and I bought it in two colors Rose Gold and Silver (you definitely don’t need more than 1 color, I bought one to keep at my desk, another for on-the-go/travel). It has 3x magnification and it’s extremely sharp and clear. It has Simplehuman’s lighting that they call “tru-lux” which mimics natural sunlight. I like that it’s really sturdy, comes with a pouch you can store it in, has two light brightness settings and also comes with a fold-out ring you can hold in your hand or use to stand up on a flat surface. It’s rechargeable and the lights last a long time without me having to recharge frequently, although I find the mirror is so good I don’t always use the lights.
It’s indeed quite a splurge for a compact mirror, but the quality is very good, it’s well made and designed. I really like the pouch because it’s compact and not bulky. The product itself measures a little over approximately 4 inches in diameter, mirror is 4 inches wide. Available at Nordstrom, Neiman Marcus, Dillard’s.
The Bite Beauty Agave Lip Mask is something I’ve used up several times. I think many of you will agree it’s one of the best most hydrating lip products. For some reason I didn’t think any of these had a fun scent/taste. I just realized that Maple and Lavender both have a sweet candy like taste which is really pleasant. These pretty much go on clear even the tinted ones. Maple is my lips but better and actually does give my pigmented lips a tint. Smashed is a very sheer red. There’s a new one that looks like it’s an online exclusive called Candy Apple. Also available in a cute Agave Treat Trio Mini Set with Natural, Candy Cane and Maple. Available at Sephora and Bite Beauty.
Skincare Favorites Right Now
So many things I’ve been wanting to write about for skincare. I’m trying to organize my roundups by category in an updated series for you. If you have any requests or questions let me know in the comments! For now a few things I think are amazing are from Sisley, Drunk Elephant and Fresh.
The Sisley Black Rose Face Mask is one of the best hydrating masks I’ve ever tried. It’s a cult classic and lives up to the hype. A tube is quite the splurge and I’ve hoarded every mini and sample I’ve gotten for ages. The Sisley team sent a tube and I was beyond grateful for it! It’s really truly amazing. It will be forever in my routine. It softens and plumps the skin making it feel super soft and radiant. There are a few sets available with this in the full size and minis so if you’re in the market to splurge I highly recommend looking online first. They give price breaks for the sets and often have good gift with purchases. Available at multiple retailers including Sisley-Paris.
I’ve received so many questions about Drunk Elephant lately! It’s a line I’ve really wanted to try more but haven’t had a chance to yet. Skincare testing takes so much time. I’ve only tried two things so far, but have had great success with both. The TLC Sukari Babyfacial is one of the few AHA/BHA resurfacing products I’ve tried I think works, but over multiple uses. This is an area I want to experiment more with. I’ve had more time to experiment with this and find that the tingle truly depends on what other items you’ve been using in your routine. Any acids or retinols or even scrubs you use increases skin sensitivity. Both Andrew and I have been really interested in learning more about acids and peels. Until we get a strong one done at a dermatologist or clinic, we’ve been testing a few at home. I think this one is strong enough to give visible results. Skin is left baby smooth after a single use. For me I didn’t really see texture improve until a few uses, but that is expected. The other Drunk Elephant item I’ve tried which I love is the Protini Polypeptide Cream which I still recommend and love. Both available at Sephora.
Then there’s the Fresh Beauty Sugar Face Polish which I’ve featured a number of times already but had to mention again. It’s a sugar scrub that melts into the skin so it’s not harsh. It smells amazing, leaves the skin soft and exfoliates without being too gritty. Everything in the Fresh Beauty line is on the pricey side but the products leave me feeling like a new person. For the holiday I always get questions about what to get the person who has everything. I’m compiling a gift guide series, but for sure you cannot go wrong with Fresh. Even if they already own the products, it’s such a beautiful line – their masks are amazing and are bound to be loved and used up. I think their Mask Sets are the best things you can buy for yourself or a friend. Last year the four piece mini set sold out super fast. This year’s there are a few options. The Great Escape Face Mask Set is available at Nordstrom. There is also a slightly different variation called Mask for Miles exclusive to Sephora (minis shown above are from the Sephora set).
Fragrance
A fall fragrance edit coming your way soon but right now it’s still in the high 90’s. No signs of feeling like fall here in Florida but scent helps put me in the mood. Three I’ve been reaching for frequently include Jo Malone Wood Sage and Sea Salt (but I like this year round, notes include bergamot, ambrette seeds, buchu leaves, sea salt, mineral accord, dry fruits, driftwood accord, guaiac wood, white musk, sage). I bought mine from Nordstrom. Also available in a mini in the 5-piece Cologne Collection set.
Byredo Bal D’Afrique has a warmer feel for me and I love it during this time of year (notes include bergamot, lemon, neroli, African marigold, bucchu, violet, jasmine petals, cyclamen, black amber, musk, vetiver, Moroccan cedarwood). I bought mine at Nordstrom. You can also find it in the travel spray size in the La Selection Nomade trio.
All three Chanel Les Eaux de Chanel-Paris perfumes are perfect. Les Eaux de Chanel Biarritz is the best for citrus lovers but it has a lighter feel more like spring or summer. For fall I think Les Eaux de Chanel Venise is perfect with neroli, oriental accord, amber, a bit of vanilla and tonka bean. Based on the notes you can sense the feel that I love bergamot and citrus notes. Available at Chanel.com.
Hair + Makeup Basics
I get asked about the Gisou Hair Comb frequently. It’s such a beautiful basic wide tooth comb although it’s not available at a lot of places. I ordered it directly from the Gisou website and really like it. It comes in the prettiest pink pouch which I don’t use but when I travel I’ll keep it inside. For hair oils I have more that I’ve been testing coming your way soon, but two I love include the Sisley Hair Rituel Precious Hair Care Oil (reviewed here and here) and the Ouai Hair Oil (reviewed here). Both are great for shiny smooth hair.
There are so many great makeup basics that I have in rotation. With all the new beauty that launches weekly I sometimes forget to mention everyday basics. The Armani Luminous Silk Foundation was one I used years ago and the formula never lasted on me. I decided to give it another try based on the overwhelming number of requests I’ve had to review it again. I’m 6.5 and 7 mixed. I’ve found if I combine it with the Laura Mercier Oil-Free Primer it lasts all day on me (I do need a touch up mid-day though). I think what moisturizer and primer you use with this is key. Otherwise as with many foundation formulas using a base that isn’t compatible will make the product either separate or pill on your skin. I mix the shades because 6.5 is a little too yellow and 7 is a little neutral. I bought both of mine from Nordstrom.
Chanel Matte Les 4 Ombres in Clair Obscur is my go-to matte quad these days. It’s easy to use and I don’t have to think about what else to combine for eyes, cheeks or clothes. It’s versatile and goes with everything I wear. Review + swatches here. Available at Chanel.com.
That wraps up my loving right now roundup! As always I’d love to hear what you are loving right now. I’m starting up weekly giveaways again now through end of November. There are two places I’m doing giveaways, one is on Instagram (announced weekly on stories so make sure you follow for details there). Another one is going to be via the blog. This week I’m giving away a full-size bottle of the Sisley Hair Rituel Precious Oil + Ouai Hair Oil to one reader. Open internationally but you must be 18 years or older to win. To qualify you must follow ALL the steps in the widget below, partial entries will be disqualified. Giveaway runs through 10/22 11:59 PM EST. I’ll pick a winner within 48 hours after giveaway ends and contact via email.
