Sabrina, Author at The Beauty Look Book

Shu Uemura

Shu Uemura La Maison du Chocolat Collection

October 9, 2018

Holiday collections have launched early this year and my first look at holiday beauty focuses on the Shu Uemura chocolate-inspired launch called Shu Uemura La Maison du Chocolat Collection. I have most of the pieces swatched for you which I hope will help those in the US since the brand is available online only. Everything is limited-edition. I’ve found some hits and misses. My thoughts on each beauty product that I tried below.

There are two Ganache and Praline Eyeshadow Palettes ($99 each) called Dark Cacao and Framboise Berry. Both have eight shades in a mirrored compact that resembles a chocolate gift box. They are scented like a sweet candy, I don’t really smell chocolate but it does have a sweet scent. The fragrance luckily did not irritate my eyes.

Framboise Berry has a palette filled with pinks and reds that are super popular today. Pigment and texture wise the palette performs well, but I cannot wear these kinds of colors on my olive skin. The top row has a matte red brown, matte cream, shimmery red, shimmery cool pink. The bottom row has warm shimmery rose, shimmery mauve, sparkling rose gold and a deep matte cranberry.

Dark Cacao has chocolate browns and neutrals. The top row has a matte brown, a shimmering taupe, a satiny shimmer plum, a matte ivory. The bottom row has a shimmering silver brown, a shimmery deep plum taupe, a bright yellow gold shimmer and a chocolate matte. The colors are smooth but pigment is medium. They’re not high impact shadows but you can definitely build and layer to intensify color. I think the mattes are excellent. The overall palette runs cool and deep on my skin tone.

Up next are the cheek products which include two Shimmery Powders ($36 each) in Luster Gold Dust and Luster Rose Dust. Both come in a sifter jar with a sponge applicator. The powders are very sparkly and very lightweight so it’s prone to flying with a loose brush, I recommend a denser brush. The shimmer is really beautiful but these are too sparkly for me to wear on the face. I prefer them on the eyes but they’re still very sparkly and glittery. The glitter is superfine. but they look pretty on the eyes if you apply over a creamy base to help the product stick to the skin. I like using them over a cream shadow patted on then blended with a dense brush. For the cheeks there is also a cute Creamy Dome Blush ($30) which has the most perfect cream to powder texture. It glides onto the skin and blends beautifully. The color Passion Fruit Macaron unfortunately isn’t for my skintone – it looks like a straight orange even with blending.

For the skin they’ve launched their best-selling Ultime8 Sublime Cleansing Oil in special-edition packaging. There is a 150 mL ($43) and 450 mL ($91) version of the cleanser. Formula is the same, the only difference is the packaging which has the Maison du Chocolate pattern and color themes. If you’re curious about all the cleansing oil options they have now you can read my Shu Uemura Cleansing Oil review. The formulas have changed and been revamped over the years so this may help as a guide in case you haven’t kept track of them.

For lips there are a few items to pick from. There are two shades of Metallic Lip Liner ($30 each) which come in a Star Dust Gold shade (bright yellow gold metallic) and Star Dust Rose (shimmery pink gold). These come with a brush applicator which resembles a liquid liner applicator for eyes but thicker. I couldn’t get a smooth application with the gold shade. The rose shade applied smoother. Concept to me is a little strange – they are very foiled-looking and metallic. I don’t see how you would use this just as a liner without smoothing it over the entire lip, either alone or mixed with lipstick.

Last but not least are the lipsticks. Since Shu Uemura pulled the line from US stores I haven’t explored their lipsticks. There are two formulas in the chocolate collection called the Rouge Unlimited Supreme Matte and the Rouge Unlimited Lipstick ($31 each). All the colors are chocolate inspired so everything is deep and dramatic with a fall vibe. All the colors are creams/non-shimmers. For those who want to see something other than neutrals on the blog, these swatches are for you! The formula of both the matte and regular lipsticks is ABSOLUTELY amazing. They’re one swipe wonders that glide on the lips with perfection. I’m still a neutral lip lover, or pink/peach/plum wearer so all of the shades fall way outside my comfort zone. Still I can appreciate the lipsticks for their phenomenal formula and I know a lot of my readers wear these kinds of colors. As we go into fall these colors are more in style, although summer doesn’t really end here in Florida until maybe end of November. I am truly amazed at how good these are, I really want to look into other color options in the regular lineup for these because the formula is flawless.

Rouge Unlimited Supreme Mattes include:

Ripe Cherry matte deep brown red
Raspberry Syrup matte bright red with blue undertones
Cassis Berry purple lilac matte
Deep Cranberry deep warm red
Black Berry deep vamp berry

Rouge Unlimited Lipstick shades include:

Raspberry Puree bold red raspberry
Framboise Sorbet warm red brick
Caramel Toffee warm orange tan
Hazelnut Ganache deep brownish chocolate with a hint of red

Quick look with the Shu Uemura Dark Cacao Eyeshadow Palette, Passion Fruit Macaron Dome Blush and Raspberry Puree Lipstick. Foundation worn for skintone reference is Armani Luminous Silk Shade 7. Tee by Reformation.

Bottom line pretty for fall with all kinds of dark chocolate vibes. The colors run deeper, warmer and more dramatic than I’m used to wearing but the formulas are nice and everything is really well made. I think the lipsticks are the standouts in the entire collection.

You can find the Shu Uemura La Maison du Chocolat Collection available online at Shu Uemura USA and Canada. If you’re shopping for a few things they’ve offered a promo code for you to use: BLBXSHU at checkout will give you 15% off any order + free shipping.

Do you have any current Shu Uemura favorites?

Chocolate collection provided courtesy of Shu Uemura for review.

16 Comments

Chanel Skincare

Chanel Hand Cream Review: La Creme Main, Texture Riche and No 5 L’Eau

October 8, 2018

I’ve been a little absent on the blog and Instagram catching up on some things at home, doing some de-cluttering and also fixing up things at our house. I have a lot to share with you in beauty this week and today I have a review of the three Chanel Hand Creams that have launched over the past year. Chanel launched their first version La Creme Main Hand Cream last year in the cutest egg shaped packaging I’ve ever seen. The second launch was in a scented version called the On Hand Cream in the No 5 L’Eau which is a soft powdery version of the perfume. Most recently this fall Chanel released yet another formula called La Creme Main Texture Riche which is supposed to be a deeper richer texture that offers eight hours of hydration. I have thoughts on all three for you today.

All of them are packaged the same way in a white squeeze tube shaped like an egg. The cap is removeable and I’m really happy to report it always clicks back on even when in a handbag. They run at $50 each for 1.7 fl oz/40 ml, made in France.

La Creme Main

I reviewed the original La Creme Main when it launched last year and still love it to this day. It’s hit or miss for some. I like it because it has a velvety dry down without any sticky or emollient residue. It smells like a soft sweet floral with a clean linen-like feel. It’s formulated to soften, smooth and brighten the hands. One I apply it, I do notice that my hands experience instant relief from dryness and they also look smoother (probably due to the silicone). The overall texture and feel is very lightweight, easy to blend and absorbs fast. If you have extremely dry hands or cuticles you will need something stronger like L’Occitane’s Shea Butter Hand Cream or Kiehl’s Ultimate Strength Hand Salve.

Shown above, Le Vernis in Organdi, Le Vernis in Nuvola Rosa, Le Rouge Crayon Discretion, Rouge Coco Gloss in Melted Honey and Bourgeoisie, my kitty is obsessed with the shape as well, whenever he sees it, he guards it like it’s his lol! I have gotten quite a few scratches trying to grab it back.

Ingredients:

No 5 L’Eau On Hand Cream

The second version is the No 5 L’Eau On Hand Cream scent which is a soft powdery version of the perfume. I really love the Eau de Toilette but the hand cream has a more powdery feel to it. The scent lingers a long time and is fairly strong for a hand cream. It also offers light moisture with a soft emollient finish like a lightweight lotion. It does dry down nicely but doesn’t quite have the same velvety feel as the others do. Since I wear other perfumes this isn’t one I reach for often unless I’m wearing the Chanel No 5 L’Eau as the hand cream is pretty strong.

On the nails, Organdi, review of the perfume here, review of the body spray here:

La Creme Main Texture Riche

The newest version is the La Creme Main Texture Riche. This has a noticeably thicker feel than the original and also has more moisture while still having that velvet dry down feel. Chanel reports that this offers eight hours of hydration. I can’t say for sure exactly how long I felt it on the skin, but when I apply it in the morning I don’t feel the need to reapply anything throughout the day. It’s thicker with a product called May Rose Wax so it creates a veil of moisture on the skin that stays put without being heavy. It has a similar scent to the original hand cream which I noticed stayed there for hours.

Shown above, Rouge Coco Gloss 172 Tendresse and Stylo Ombre et Contour in Contour Clair, perfume is Les Eaux de Chanel Biarritz (review soon)

On the nails, Rouge Noir

Another look at the packaging:

Packed into the cutest little zip pouch I ordered from The Daily Edited (top also shown here).

I really love all three. I’m partial to the original version just because it works so well for humid weather conditions, night or day. I keep one by my bed and often one on my desk to apply as needed. It works well at night because there’s no greasy residue so if I touch my pillow or face it doesn’t feel sticky. The scent is pleasant as well so it doesn’t interfere with perfume. Going into the dry winter season I think I’ll really like the Texture Riche. It does make the hands feel softer and has a thicker feel without being too thick.

I’m going to start up giveaways again! I’ll be doing one per week either on the blog or Instagram @beautylookbook. This round, one person will receive all three Chanel hand creams. Open internationally but you must be 18 years or older. See terms and conditions in widget for all the details. Runs through Friday October 12th. Winner will be selected within 48 hours after giveaway ends and must respond to e-mail from me within 24 or another person will be selected in their place. To qualify for a chance to win you must complete ALL THE STEPS in the widget. Partial entries will not be considered. Not sponsored or affiliated.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

You can find the Chanel La Creme Main, La Creme Main Texture Riche at all Chanel retailers. Also available online at Chanel.com. All purchased by me. Have you tried any of these yet? Did they work for you?

67 Comments

Sales

Fall Blog Sale Closet Clean Out

October 4, 2018

If you’re a newsletter subscriber you’ve already seen that I’m doing another round of a blog sale for some of my accessories. I’m making room for new things! I’m the original owner of all items listed and everything is authentic. Each item was purchased directly from the brand retailer or a major retailer like Neiman Marcus, Barneys New York, Hermes, etc. I have receipts of most of the items which are listed on each product – if you purchase an item from me I will be including the original or photocopy in the package with my personal information marked out.

For this round I have all the items I’m selling listed on one of my Instagram profiles @stylednotes for you to swipe and view. I’ve added a few more items since my initial listing. If you’re interested please e-mail me at [email protected] – to manage all the requests and questions this is the only e-mail I’ll be responding to and sending invoices from. I will not be responding to DMs.

Check my Instagram profile @stylednotes for listings, I’ll be updating status as they sell there as well. Listings will be deleted once they are sold.

Blog Sale details, please read all the notes below:

If you’re interested in buying an item, please e-mail me the Item Letter + color name so I can make sure I know which item you’re interested in
Will ship to anyone in the US
Prices listed include standard shipping
Payments will be accepted via PayPal only – please do not send any payments until we correspond and confirm via e-mail
All packages will require a direct signature (no PO Boxes)
No holds on any items, payment must be received within 1 hour after Paypal request is e-mailed or it will be re-listed
I ship items by the following business day and e-mail a tracking number to you
ALL SALES FINAL – no returns

Some product notes:

For the Hermes bracelets please measure your wrist in advance. Sizes are all listed, the ones I buy are either PM and XS, I’ve included suggested wrist sizes which are from the Hermes website. All sales are final, so please make sure you know your sizing as there are NO returns. Boxes and brown dust case included.
Sizing details can also be found on the Hermes site, search by product name such as Clic H, Kelly Double Tour etc.
- Enamel jewelry https://www.hermes.com/us/en/women/jewelry-and-fashion-jewelry/enamel-jewelry/#||Category
- Leather bracelets https://www.hermes.com/us/en/women/jewelry-and-fashion-jewelry/leather-jewelry/#||Category
Items are all used and worn so signs of wear are apparent but everything is in good condition. I’ve included video clips to show amount of wear. Happy to answer additional questions if you have any via e-mail.
I’ve included the price I paid for items, note on the bracelets Hermes did change the pricing over the years.
Receipt copies will included where applicable (check each listing).

If you’re interested please e-mail me at [email protected] – this is the only address I’ll be checking for purchase inquiries. Thank you!

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Eye Makeup NARS

NARS Eyeshadow Singles and Duos Relaunch Review

October 3, 2018

NARS just redesigned their Eyeshadow Singles and Duos in a new formula and packaging. Some shades have been repromoted and new colors have been introduced. The formula is softer and smoother with a more buttery feel and now comes with magnetic removable pans. I still have yet to find a palette to put them into so I’m keeping them in the original compacts for now. Today I have a review of the following items:

Single Eyeshadows $19 each for 1.1 g/0.04 oz
Single Eyeshadow Mattes $19 each for 1.1 g/0.04 oz
Hardwired Single Eyeshadow $22 each for 1.1 g/0.04 oz
Duo Eyeshadows $35 each for 1.1 g/0.04 oz per pan
Tinted Smudge Proof Eye Base $26 each for 8 g/0.28 oz
Climax Mascara $24 for 6 g/0.21 oz

The new shadows are improved over the original but I really liked the original formula. Differences are in packaging design and texture. The revamped version is softer and velvety with a texture that seems to glide on the skin better. Pigment and color payoff is similar to me, I do think with the shimmers the softer velvety texture makes for a richer finish. All the colors layer and blend with each other beautifully.

First a look at the new vs old packaging. I like the concept of removable pans to make my own palette. I think all brands should have this option with singles! I’m still trying to find a good palette solution for these – they do have one they launched a while ago but it hasn’t held up the best for me.

The Single Eyeshadow comes in 42 shade options. There are a different finishes of matte, shimmer, satin. Some retailers split these into Soft Essentials for Mattes, Precious Metals for shimmers and Pops for bright colors. The ones I tested were all excellent in color payoff, texture and smoothness. I’m partial to the shimmers for their buttery soft texture that glides onto the lids perfectly. Color I have include a mix of press samples and ones I purchased on my own.

Top Row:

Cabo San Lucas* is a sheer mauve with a soft satin sheen
Noumea* is a warm matte red brown
Bengali* is a matte cool deep brown

Middle Row:

Virgin Gorda is a shimmering rose nude
Ashes to Ashes* is a soft satiny shimmer taupe grey
Fez is a warm bronze shimmer

Bottom Row:

Verona* is a cool purple silvery shimmer
Isla Bonita* is an ultra pale minty silver
Lahore* is a shimmering taupe grey

Swatches below, to me Ashes to Ashes and Lahore almost look identical on my skin. Lahore has more pigment and shimmer, but the colors look really close. If you have a pink undertone you will probably see the difference more. I’m tan olive.

The Hardwired Eyeshadow Singles are ultra shimmery and metallic. I had my eye on a few so I stopped by the store to see them. The ones I wanted looked ultra glittery while the ones I had were more of a refined metallic. I may go check them out again as my experience with the four I have blew me away. They’re so pigmented and non-gritty like you’d expect. The shimmer is ultra fine and adheres to the skin really well. Photos can’t capture how beautiful these are.

Earthshine is a pale lavender with green, blue and violet flecks
Stud is the perfect silver taupe shimmer
Lunar* is a high shine lavender
Eclipse* is a duo-chrome purple that flashes pink

The Duo Eyeshadow has been relaunched in a lot of repromoted shades. Based on a comparison of old vs new, the colors with the same names are very similar but I see slight differences. Pigment wise the newer ones adhere better to the skin and have a softer smooth texture. Color payoff is similar though, my experience is that the color is really good and lasts a long time.

Colors I bought include the following below. I did receive some press samples but they weren’t colors I felt like I’d use so I gifted them away and bought ones I knew I would:

Kalahari* is the perfect neutral medium tone plum and bronze
Alhambra has a shimmering pink and shimmering gold
Cordura has a shimmering bronze and deep chocolate with gold flecks
St Paul de Vence has a perfect soft pink and warm pink matte (I feel like since I missed out on the Charlotte Tilbury Pillow Talk quad this could be a good alternative)

The Tinted Smudge Proof Eye Base now comes in tinted form. I ordered both Light and Medium as I wasn’t sure what color I’d be. Medium is my match and I’ve swatched it next to a few Radiant Creamy Concealers in Custard, Macadamia and Ginger for reference. I wasn’t a fan of the original clear base simply because it’s not meant for my skin type. I know many love matte bases for eyeshadows but I don’t have oily lids so most tend to dry out my skin. I prefer something creamy and emollient. These new Tinted Bases are ultra pigmented and a little goes a long way. They have a velvety matte dry down so while it will help the shadow stay put all day long I found them too dry for my skin type. It is an excellent product to even out the lids and help create a nice canvas for powder eye shadow and once it sets it is indeed smudge-proof.

Last but not least a quick mention of the Climax Mascara*. I’m going to do a roundup soon of mascaras I’ve been trying and this one is excellent. It volumizes, doesn’t clump, holds the curl and is almost smudge-proof. Indoors in air conditioning it does not smudge on me. But outdoors for extended periods of time here in Florida we are still having humid weather with temperatures in the high 90s sometimes exceeding 100. In those cases minor smudging occurs. But overall this is an excellent formula.

A quick look at some of the originals I still have versus new version. I think the colors are really close but there are slight differences. The original Alhambra is a tiny bit peachier. Original Kalahari is cooler-toned. Original Ashes to Ashes is the slightest bit warmer in undertone.

Overall thoughts are positive. I think there has been an improvement in the new formula although I never had issues with the original ones. I really like that the pans are removeable and hope they come out with a large empty palette like MAC does that I can use to put the shadows in for travel or to make my own palette. I’m going to give the Hardwired shades another look, especially Pattaya because the formula is really good. I personally don’t love the Eyeshadow Bases but they aren’t bad – they’re just not what I like to use because of the matte finish.

You can find the NARS Eyeshadow Singles and Duos out now. Some shades seem to have been selling out quickly so you may have to shop around to find the colors you want. Available at NARS Cosmetics, Nordstrom, Neiman Marcus, Sephora and all other NARS retailers.

Some items featured are press samples, others purchased by me. Press sample shades have a * next to them.

10 Comments

Highlighters Hourglass Cosmetics

Hourglass Ambient Lighting Edit Palette Unlocked Edition

October 1, 2018

Hourglass launched a new palette called the Ambient Lighting Edit Unlocked Palette ($80 for 0.04 oz/1.4 g x6, made in Italy) for holiday 2018. I ordered this from Sephora and as with most of their 6-pan palettes it’s limited-edition but this year’s version has all new shades! This is the first of a few items the brand is launching for holiday. More teasers on their Instagram @hourglasscosmetics for another palette launching in a couple of days.

The Unlocked Ambient Lighting Palette has two finishing powders, one bronzer, two blushes and a metallic strobe powder. Quality is excellent with a medium coverage finish that’s very natural. The overall look and feel of the colors ended up being darker than I anticipated. On my skin they apply a little deeper than what I see in the palette but it worked well. The colors also applied with a more diffused glow rather than the high shimmer sheen. Since these are luminous with light reflective particles, the palette is going to look different depending on how the natural light catches it. Lasting power is excellent as well. They stay put on the skin without emphasizing pores or fine lines.

A closer look at the palette in a few different lighting options, swatches and all the shades applied on the face below.

First color descriptions of the shades you get in this year’s holiday palette:

Soft Light is a sheer light ivory beige finishing powder with a subtle sheen
Filtered Light is a tan beige finishing powder, almost a soft contour for me
Golden Bronze Light is a warm golden bronze shimmer
Nude Glow is a shimmery nude peach
Mood Flush is a satiny rose pink, looks cooler-toned in the pan, but on my skin applied more neutral-warm
Champagne Strobe Light is a high shimmer champagne

Close up of the palette indoors natural light:

Versus with a flash:

On the face it gives a very natural glow. There’s no harsh frost or glare even with a flash, also wearing:

Foundation – Armani Luminous Silk Foundation in 6.5 (just decided to re-try this and it works really well)
Powder to set – Hourglass Ambient Unlocked in Soft Light + Filtered Light mixed
Eyeshadow – Hourglass Scattered Light Shadow in Aura
Eyeliner – Chanel Stylo Yeux Waterproof in Ebene
Brows – Chanel La Palette Sourcils de Chanel in Brun 50
Mascara – Chanel Le Volume de Revolution (review soon)
Blush – Hourglass Ambient Unlocked in Mood Flush + Nude Glow mixed
Highlight – Hourglass Ambient Unlocked Champagne Strobe Light
Lipgloss – Pat McGrath LUST Gloss Flesh Astral *

Size comparison of the different Hourglass compacts.

A lot of you have asked what brushes I recommend using with this palette. The pans are on the small side so there’s a high chance you’re going to be mixing colors with your brush. A few smaller ones I use and recommend shown below.

Top to bottom:

MAC 168 SH (mine is an older short discontinued version, full size here brush head is the same size)
Charlotte Tilbury Powder and Sculpt brush
Laura Mercier Cheek Color Brush *
Wayne Goss Brush 10 *
Wayne Goss Air Brush * (one shown is limited-edition color, but he carries it in the regular shade)
Wayne Goss Brush 14 * (brush set reviewed here)

Overall well made with beautiful colors. I think the quality is excellent. It has a very natural look to it but the colors are buildable if you layer. Given all the highlighters that are out there on the market at this point many launches are looking the same to me. These colors are new to Hourglass and I think a couple are unique while others are not. I would love to see them expand their Ambient Lighting finishing powder range to include full sizes of Soft Light and Filtered Light and perhaps shades in between and darker. I love the satiny almost matte powders and right now there’s not a color that works to match my skin although I used to use Dim Light as a setting powder when I was lighter in skin tone.

I do love the look and vibe of Nude Glow Blush because I love a good peachy shimmer. Mood Flush is nice but for some reason doesn’t quite apply the same in the pan on my face (it goes on warmer). I’m the equivalent of MAC NC35 and I think if I were up to 3 shades darker in skintone this would still show up on me, but the overall look is still very medium-natural.

I think it’s a good buy. I’m really happy with it and love that it has new colors. I’m also ok with having similar options because these palettes are so convenient for travel or to create a look with a single compact. I don’t know that I’d call it entirely unique and I’m also ok with that. At this point given all the highlighters I own and have tested I don’t know that I’d call it a must-have, but I do really like it. It’s pricey but well made.

You can find the Hourglass Unlocked Ambient Lighting Edit Palette out now at Sephora and Hourglass. It’s limited-edition for Holiday 2018.

20 Comments

Lips Pat McGrath Labs

Pat McGrath Labs Lip Fetish Sheer Colour Lip Balm

September 29, 2018

Pat McGrath Labs has launched one of the best tinted lip balms I’ve ever tried with her Lip Fetish Sheer Colour Balms ($38 each for 3.5 g/0.12 oz, made in USA). She previously released a clear version (reviewed here which I bought and love) and her sparkly Astrals (I bought the Nude one, but the others looked a bit too sparkly for me). This month she launched 9 new non-shimmers in tinted colors which I think are absolute perfection. I really liked the formula of her clear version even though the price point was pretty high. Having color added feels like I can justify the price point a little more for a lip balm, but seriously ALL her lip products are phenomenal.

There are 9 perfect colors ranging from nude, pink, beige, to bright pink, plum and red. I think the color selection is very good, there’s not a single bad color in the launch. I also really appreciate that she offers sets on her website that give us a price break versus buying individually. You can find the Lip Fetish Sheer Colour Balm Everything Kit for $275 with 9 colors or three variations of Lip Fetish Sheer Colour Balm Trios for $95 each.

For tinted balms my favorites have been the Dior Addict Lip Glows followed by any of the YSL Volupte line (Tint-in-Balms and Volupte Shine Oil in Stick). The Pat McGrath Balms aren’t as soft in density which makes them have a less slippery feel on the lips. As much as I love super emollient balms that have an almost buttery feel, the Florida heat can make those feel like they are sliding off the lips sometimes. The Pat McGrath ones have a balmy feel but without the sliding feeling. You can feel and notice lips are moisturized but it’s not heavy. There’s no detectable scent or taste to me.

Color swatches very sheer on the arms/hands. Once on the lips the color shows up in a sheer to medium coverage. Even with the light ones I see my entire lip covered with pigment. They’re sheer compared to her lipsticks but have enough color that you can see them on your lips. Application is smooth and perfect with every single color. Color descriptions:

521 Blow Up is a warm beige
522 Love Supreme is a cool rose cream
523 Succexy medium coral peach
524 Passion Flower is a light pink peach (turns pink on my lips)
525 Full Fantasy bright pink
526 Wild Cherry is a deep cherry red
527 Dark Devotion is a mulberry wine
528 Ultra Vixen is a deep wine plum
529 Flesh 3 perfect red brown rose

Also shown in direct sunlight below:

Swatches, first straight from the tube:

Swatches applied with a lip brush:

Lip swatches, done on bare lips, for reference my skintone is MAC Studio Fix NC35. Note Passion Flower turns pink on my lips, I triple checked and triple lip-swatched to make sure I didn’t have any remnants on my lips from other colors mixing in. Also quick note, I take my photos with a flash – depending on your screen the lip swatches may look a tiny bit more glossy below. I’d describe these as having a soft sheen finish.

Individual close ups, I’m having a bad skin week so please excuse the patchy skin, I packed on tons of extra powder and foundation to cover up some scars and skin breakage. All lip swatches are taken indoors but with a flash:

Bottom line perfect. EVERY single one is perfect. Lasting power is better than your average balm, it still won’t last as long as her LuxeTrance or MatteTrance lipsticks, but for a balm I get several hours of wear without fading. Formula is hydrating and really does moisturize the lips nicely. I love the natural sheen these have and also the fact that once you apply they don’t feel like they’ll slide off. I still have some more lip product reviews from other brands that I’m working on including some of the new Tom Ford Boys and Girls, Sisley Le Phyto-Rouge and more, but being the gloss girl that I am, I love these balms. They’re easy to wear, effortless, apply flawlessly and the colors are perfect. I think it’s a little odd Passion Flower turns straight pink on my lips when it looks peach in the tube but I love it regardless.

You can find the Pat McGrath Labs Lip Fetish Sheer Colour Balms online at Pat McGrath for $38 each. Also available in her Lip Fetish Sheer Colour Balm Everything Kit for $275 with 9 colors or three variations of Lip Fetish Sheer Colour Balm Trios for $95 each.

Many thanks to the Pat McGrath team for sending these for review.

22 Comments

Diptyque Fragrance Home / Interiors

Diptyque City Candles

September 27, 2018

I’m thrilled to share that the Diptyque City Candles will be available online at Diptyque and in Diptyque boutiques for a limited time starting today 9/27 through Sunday 9/30. There are currently 9 city candles that have been created for Beverly Hills, London, Miami, Tokyo, New York City, Shanghai, Berlin, Paris and Hong Kong. Each candle comes in a beautifully designed jar. Since they are only available to the stores in each corresponding city they’re harder to find and track down, but Diptyque is launching them all online for a limited time. Two new launches this round for online include Hong Kong and Paris. There is also a new Boxed Set of Six City Candles that comes packaged together in a white box.

While these are typically only available in city boutiques (similar to the Le Labo city perfumes), there have been a few times where Diptyque has launched the collection online so I was able to buy the ones I didn’t own from boutique trips, but they sell out very fast! Earlier this year I found a wonderful Paris shopper who travels from the US to Paris frequently for work to purchase a couple of the Paris ones for me. Every single one is amazing and beautiful. The boxes these come in are just as beautiful if not prettier than the actual candle jars themselves.

I have a review for each one today except Berlin. I have the older version which is packaged in a clear glass jar and based on the description I think the tinted design jar is same as the clear one but I haven’t smelled it to confirm.

Quick note for the US city candles and if you’re based in the US. While the candles are only available at each city boutique (Beverly Hills, Miami, NYC) – you can call the store to order and they will ship to you! Every store I’ve ordered from and called is very friendly, patient and helpful.

Beverly Hills

Beverly Hills was the first city candle I discovered. I reviewed it several years ago when we were still living in San Diego. I am a little embarrassed to admit how many I stocked up on but this was my go-to for a long time. It has lemon, mint, orchid and freesia. It smells like a fresh citrus and the mint is a sweet mint but it’s really subtle.

The description, “With its palm trees and lush gardens, the Beverly Hills candle embodies the aroma of an iconic city. A unique citrus scent blending mint and lemon with a hint of Freesia, the candle exudes a bright and zesty scent. The candle’s colorful design has a psychedelic touch that is native to the west coast and pays homage to the famous Martinique wallpaper, the iconic pattern used in the Beverly Hills Hotel.”

Miami

Miami is another one I bought online the first time city candles were offered. I also bought a couple in person at the Diptyque store at Bal Harbour. This is another floral citrus with magnolia, lemon, lime, vanilla. To me it’s similar to Beverly Hills, but Miami is creamier and a little more green while Beverly Hills smells sweeter and more vibrant.

The description, “The scent of the Miami candle offers an exotic aroma of delicate magnolia blossoms enhanced by delicious citrus notes. Reminiscent of the tangy lemon and lime native to the city, the candle suggests hints of vanilla and an homage to its signature tropical atmosphere. Its design pays homage to the city’s iconic Art Deco architecture, lively atmosphere and unique culture.”

New York

New York is inspired by New York City nights. I don’t know that I can attribute a smell to the city, but this candle has a warm patchouli, cedar and vetiver. It smells like fall in a warm cozy leather chair to me. It has a strong masculine vibe with the cedar. The candle doesn’t smell like New York to me but regardless I think it’s a beautiful one.

Description, “New York City candle evokes the spirit of speakeasies and the atmosphere of New York City by night… Like an echo: cedar, vetiver, and patchouli together are heightened by incense, reviving the scent of New York City at its golden age.”

London

London candle has beautiful floral notes like a garden. The lilac and juniper are what I smell and it has a very soft airy feel to it. I haven’t been to London in over 15 years, I have fond memories and am dying to go back to visit. When I was in college I did a summer study abroad trip to Oxford and went to London frequently. This was a life-changing experience for me not only to see England for the first time, but also because I met a boy who I married nearly 10 years later. I also roomed with a girl who became my long-time bestie even to this day we still keep in touch.

Description, “The scent of the London candle takes you to the heart of the Columbia Road flower market. Its unique notes of heliotrope, lilac, juniper and hyacinth are warmed with a touch of spice. With its floral detailing, the vessel celebrates a traditional bright and refined English wallpaper—paying homage to the pattern of the historic Westbourne Grove diptyque boutique.”

Paris

The Paris candle is something I can’t quite describe. It’s described has having chypre accord with aromatic twist of lavender. It smells fresh, light, floral, deep all at the same time. It feels like a little bit of citrus, lavender and cedar all mixed in one. This is in my top picks because of the name Paris. It’s a dream of mine to live there (always dreaming of the croissants and beautiful gardens!).

Description, “The newest addition to the City Candle Collection, the long-awaited Paris candle. Dressed in an ornate vessel that reveals the capital as seen from the sky, the pattern pays homage to the iconic city of light. The scent is marked by a chypre accord that permeates the enigmatic Parisian chic atmosphere.”

Hong Kong, Tokyo and Shanghai

Hong Kong is one of the newest online launches. I haven’t had a chance to burn this one as this is my first time seeing it in person. I love the bold red reflective jar with the design inspired by the high rise buildings in the city. The scent has floral notes that are built around the Bauhinia Blakeana one of their orchid trees. There are also also supposed to be notes of steam rice which usually doesn’t have a scent to me. It’s a creamy floral with a musk feel to me.

Description, “The Hong Kong vessel presents a setting inspired by the citys colorful, graphic, urban density. Ever present is the persistence of nature as it attempts to reassert its power throughout the city. The olfactory tribute to this city is expressed through a floral accord, built around the famous Bauhinia Blakeana, Hong-Kong’s emblem, complemented by comforting steam of rice. Come, discover the newest addition to the city candle collection online or at our Hong Kong boutique.”

Tokyo is one of my favorites because it has a fresh light scent of pine and cedar but doesn’t feel as green as those notes typically are. There’s a hint of hinoki and incense in it with subtle floral feels. This was one I was really excited to be able to buy online.

Description, “The aroma of the Tokyo candle takes you on a stroll amongst the majestic Japanese cypress trees. Notes of pine oil and cedar leaves celebrate majestic branches shading a hidden temple path and diffuses notes of soothing incense. Inspired by the art of the Japanese garden, its design evokes the harmony and serenity of two of Tokyo’s most famous parks, Yoyogi Koen and Shinjuku Gyoen.”

Shanghai smells like a sweet flower mixed with green tea. It almost smells sweet like a dessert I’d want to eat.

Description, “The scent of the Shanghai candle is closely linked to a Chinese tradition. Deliciously perfumed osmanthus flowers complemented with notes of green tea and maté to reveal the aroma of a freshly brewed cup of tea. The candle’s design is an ode to the beauty of Huxinting, Shanghai’s oldest tea house. The vessel’s deep red shade, blue porcelain and gold are an ancient symbol of good luck.”

City Candles Box Set 2018 Edition

The amazing 6-piece box set with Beverly Hills, London, Paris, New York, Tokyo and Shanghai. It retails at $432 and while you don’t get a price break compared to buying individually but I can’t think of a more amazing gift that this would make having them in a beautiful white box.

The only one I’m missing is Berlin but as mentioned at the top of the post I have the original glass jar version and while I’m almost 100% sure the colored green and yellow jar they have right now is the same, I haven’t smelled it to confirm.

Going through all the descriptions again has me itching to travel overseas. I have such good memories of travels to Europe and I have only been to one country in Asia before but have so much on my travel wishlist. I love these city-inspired candles and as a Diptyque lover it’s fun to have something a little rarer and harder to find.

The Diptyque City Candles retail for $72 each and the Boxed Set of Six retails at $432. Available online at Diptyque for a limited time through 9/30, in limited quantities. Also available in the free-standing Diptyque boutiques.

Have you tried any of these before or visited any of the Diptyque stores in these cities? If I’m traveling to a place with a Diptyque boutique it’s always a MUST that I stop inside one. They’re beautifully designed and the staff is always so knowledgeable and friendly.

Huge thanks to Diptyque for sending me all the candles for this feature. Being the Diptyque fan that I am I had already purchased all the scents on previous occasions except for Hong Kong. I’m the happiest person on earth to be stocked up on these scents from a brand that I’ve adored for many years.