new from nars

My love for new products knows no limits. When I heard about the latest releases from NARS, I knew I had to get my hands on ’em one way or another. Luckily it wasn’t too difficult 😀

Within the last month, they’ve released a new concealer into the product lineup as well as the Satin Lip Pencil collection, meaning they’ve had a busy month! The Radiant Creamy Concealer is available in ten shades, and is unbelievably blendable. Above are the shades Amande and Cafe, two samples I requested since I wasn’t quite sure which would work best for me. I have this problematic relationship with concealer where I tend to get something that matches my skin tone, despite hearing over and over that technically you’re supposed to get something a shade lighter. The problem with dark skin is that one shade lighter can mean something ridiculous and ends up leaving you looking pale, ashy, or like you’ve done your makeup in the dark. Amande is described as a shade that would work for medium dark skin with golden olive undertones, while Cafe is for dark skin tones with warm red undertones. Swatches are listed below. On the top is Cafe, and bottom is Amande. More swatches here

Again the battle of what my undertone is rages on (I’ve been told yellow by some makeup artists and red by others. I had settled on yellow but then Felicia told me red, effectively confusing me) but these two are beautiful. The formula is pretty lightweight and it goes on smoothly. It feels less like a liquid and more like a cream to powder situation and has a doe foot applicator (no dipping fingers into a pot!). Amande is on the lighter end and I immediately though of using this as a highlight. Cafe is a bit darker and matches me best.

The Satin Lip Pencils are a dream! I’m already loving their matte range but the Satin collection is creamy, packed with color, non-drying, and long lasting. I applied it in the morning and had to touch up around 3pm (post lunch — I eat like a beast). It’s no surprise I gravitated towards the brightest pinks, Yu (a shocking pink - I call this a Barbie pink) and Jardin Des Plantes (a nice fuchsia - boutique exclusive). Again, swatches below. On the top is Yu, and bottom is Jardin Des Plantes.

Both concealer ($28) and lip pencils ($25) are available on www.narscosmetics.com. Samples were provided for editorial consideration.