While I don’t think it’s necessary to spend a fortune for a great lipstick, I can’t deny the lure of glamorously glossy high-end bullets. Even in my student days I’d opt for one Chanel or Dior lippy over 5 cheaper ones - and wear it religiously every day. Today I’m talking my Top 5 Luxury Lipsticks from Summer 2015 releases… I have a couple of favourites as you can probably spot from the pics (anyone else a flat topper?). Read on for the lowdown on each one, with links to pics of me wearing some of them.
Clinique Pop Lip in Bare Pop - creamy, moisturising and the perfect pinky beige tone, this is the most flattering nude lipstick I own right now. It’s rare that I find a nude which works well on my pale skin, but this one brings it. As you can see in the bullet, this has a slight shimmer through it, which is the only thing I’d change, though it’s very subtle when applied and seems to disappear on me. If I could only wear one lipstick line all Summer, this would be it… see Bare Pop on my lips here and the equally lovely Poppy Pop here.
Too Faced Melted Metal in Tu-Tu is a very pretty salmon pink liquid lipstick in a travel-friendly lightweight tube. I’m happy to say that the metallic element isn’t at all as shimmery as I expected... I’d describe it as an iridescent satin finish, with a similar effect on the lips as a blusher with built-in sheen: think modern metallic rather than 80s disco! NB Coral in the original Melted formula (review here) is a staple in my stash and one of my fave corals ever.
Estee Lauder Pure Color Envy Shine Sculpting Lipstick in Suggestive - I defy anyone to try these lipsticks and not fall for them on first application. I love the glide-on buttery texture, slightly sheer, shiny finish and flattering soft pinky coral shade. When I want more colour than a nude without full-on bright lips, this is the one… it’s a perfect daytime bright and very hydrating (see more pics & swatches in this post).
Chantecaille Lip Chic in Mandarin is one of those rare formulas that combines lip colour and care in equal measures. Its nourishing formula with emollient oil and hyaluronic acid leaves lip looking shiny, smooth and plump and seems to mesh with the texture of my lips so that they don’t feel coated. Mandarin is a true orange that’s perfect for Summer, no need for a balm with this one!
Smashbox Be Legendary Matte Lipstick in Fireball is a va-va-voom wake-up call for lips and not one for the faint hearted. While I usually save this one for evening, I do whip it out when my face needs a pop of colour by day as it’s guaranteed to put a spring in my step. I’ve even used it to fake an extra couple of hours sleep, as illustrated in this pic. Opaque in one layer, it applies beautifully straight from the bullet and has good lasting power.
Have you tried any of these formulas? I’m always open to enabling on other shades!
PS Check out my Top 5 Budget Lipsticks here.
