How much would you pay for a lipstick? This is a question I often ask myself but as a woman who seems to have no shame, the answer has yet to be determined. The limit does not exist. I’ll do just about anything in the name of beauty— twice if I like it.
Which brings me to today’s post. I bought the Hermès lipsticks. That’s right, plural. I got two because ultimately I had to control myself but here we are contemplating another purchase.
When I first learned that Hermès was launching a lipstick line called Rouge Hermès last year, I eagerly awaited its arrival. Baby can’t afford a Birkin but you better believe I was going to purchase a lipstick!
And then I saw the price. $67!! Not just that, limited edition shades will also be added throughout the year for a cool $72.
Well pre-pandemic Eileen bought this just before lockdown and here I am roughly six months later sharing my feedback.
Hermès Lipstick: The Backstory
Each lipstick shade was inspired and created by leveraging Hermès’ incredible archive of over 75,000 silk swatches (what an impressive library!). The collection took two years to develop and features 24 shades as well as a lip brush, balm, shine, and a universal lip liner.
Even better, the lipstick is refillable so you don’t have to waste packaging and contains no plastic. There’s also a leather carrier to hold the bullet, because why not.
Hermès Lipstick: The Formula
There are two formulas: satin (14 shades) and matte (10 shades). The Hermès Rouge formula includes ingredients like beeswax and mulberry extract and shades from rose pinks, rich reds to deep purples. There’s a slight, very elegantly subtle scent that’s neither grandma or overpowering.
The matte finish inspired by Hermès’ fine-grained suede and applies smoothly without tugging or dragging along the lips. Unlike most mattes on the market, I don’t find it super drying and doesn’t pill. It’s lightweight yet impactful.
The satin finish, inspired by the smooth calf leather that can be found on the brand’s iconic Kelly bag, glides on lips without slipping and sliding. The color stays put and is creamy yet buildable. The sheerer shades don’t really show up on me but the deeper colors look damn good.
Of the two formulas, I prefer the matte finish simply because of the ease of application, longevity, and pigmentation. I’m not much for sheer shades any more — if I’m going to wear lipstick, I’m going to commit.
Is It Worth It?
I mean, should you really put your thing down, flip it and reverse it?
That’s up to you!
I quite love it but it’s important to know that you are - in essence - paying for the Hermès name. Yes it’s beautiful, wears comfortably, and lasts a pretty decent amount of time (I lasted 5 hours). But $67 isn’t cheap. It won’t be for everyone. The great news is that the refill is $42 without the excess packaging. I’m yearning for more shades despite the fact that I a) can’t go anywhere and b) when I do go somewhere, my mask covers it up. It’s that good.
If gives me a slice of luxury. Eleganza! The packaging is simple yet statement worthy. It’s a lipstick that I would have NO SHAME whipping out in public and applying.
It’s not expensive with poor performance. If you’re a fan of luxury goods, you won’t be disappointed in this.
Rouge Hermès is available in select Hermès boutiques and on Hermes.com now. It’s also sold at select luxury retailers like Saks.
