A couple of weeks ago (I think it was a couple of weeks...I lose track of time these days!), I was invited to Boots in Brighton for an evening of testing and trying out some new launches by Smashbox. It's a brand I haven't had much experience with in the past, having only really tried a mascara of theirs and a primer. The new Be Legendary range is full of totally on-trend liquid lipsticks, covering both plain colours and a gorgeous collection of metallics, which were all designed by their lip editor-in-chief, Vlada Haggerty (otherwise known as VladaMUA on Instagram, famous for her incredible lip art). Smashbox and Vlada are a lip match made in heaven which has produced some stunning products that are not only high quality in finish, but also available in some pretty cool shades.
I think the 'pigments' side to the lip lacquer collection (or the plain/ 'normal' shades) are some of my favourites and boast the more wearable tones from the range. The colours vary from bold reds, autumnal mauves and a good few nude shades that will give the NYX and Kylie Cosmetics products a run for their money. The metallics, on the other hand, feature a couple more 'toned down' shades (such as 'Mauve Squad' and 'Petal Metal' which feature in these photos), but are probably going to be more popular for their more daring colours. Blues, purples and silvers shimmer alongside the more pinky, neutral metallics and, although gorgeous, are maybe not for the faint-hearted! There is also a fantastic red metallic called 'Crimson Chrome' that, to me, just is Christmas in a lipstick- I know it is far too early to be thinking about the festive period but my first thought was that the bold red mixed with a glittery sheen would just perfect for parties around December!
These new liquid lipsticks feature the same comfortable, long-lasting wear as their also-new sister, the Always on Matte lipsticks. These are also a similar liquid formula, however the Be Legendary range provides a glossier sheen than the matte finish of the Always on Matte range. At the event, I tried both a couple of metallics from the Be Legendary collection as well as a couple of more neutral shades from Always on Matte. Both are commendably comfortable- I have always been put off both matte lipsticks and lip lacquers due to the sticky and then awfully drying texture, but these are really creamy to apply, don't feel dry and have really fantastic staying power when on your lips. In fact, I think I preferred the matte lip lacquer to the glossier ones, which is saying something seeing as I'm a matte-hater!
I think the Always on Matte range has a much better variety of shades, for me anyway. I am quite boring with my make-up (I literally wear the same few products every day and barely change my 'look') so the more neutral, every day shades are my go-to. The pink coral shade pictured (called 'Baja Bound') is absolutely stunning and is maybe my favourite of all; subtle enough for those who don't often wear lipstick but with that little bit of colour pop for summer. You also can't go wrong with a red lip, so 'Bang Bang' is my runner up (also pictured)! I think I prefer the chunkier, more square packaging of the Always on Matte range, which makes it stand out, especially next to the more boring Be Legendary tube. The matte lipsticks also feature a more heart shaped / tear drop style applicator which I much prefer for applying liquid lipsticks!
Overall, if you're looking to try a liquid lipstick but want to stick to wearable shades, definitely check out the Always on Matte range by Smashbox. If you want some daring metallic shades, have a peek at their new Be Legendary collection! Both ranges cost £19, which is quite steep but they are really high quality products. I should also give a little shout out to their new Cover Shot eyeshadow palettes which look gorgeous; there are 6 different palettes available and offer something for everyone. Plus the packaging is to die for.
Have you tried these new products from Smashbox? Which is your favourite brand for liquid lipsticks?
Great post and you took some gorgeous photos! It was lovely meeting you x
ReplyDeleteBeth xx
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