The Spring 2014 Color Collection from NARS introduces 2 new eyeshadow duos, and I confess to some heart fluttering the instant I laid eyes on Kauai. Something about the combination of purple and gold is just so right – not to mention regal, and if there’s one thing I’ve come to love about this brand, it’s their unique shade pairings. Then there’s the name: Kauai, a place I would so much rather be in right now than here.
Damn you, Polar Vortex.
NARS – Kauai Eyeshadow Duo
NARS – Kauai Eyeshadow Duo
NARS – Kauai Eyeshadow Duo
Kauai Eyeshadow Duo (CAN $39.00) – Described by the brand as ‘gold lamé/smoky orchid‘, this duo is soooooo much more than that. To begin with, the finely milled texture is superb; highly pigmented, silky soft, almost creamy feeling, and with basically no powdery residue to speak of. The gold shade is ridiculously complex, appearing more platinum at some angles, then morphing into an antique gold at others. The purple hue has a perfect mix of blue & red pigments, so that the colour appears rich & lush, with an absolutely gorgeous iridescent flash. As these shades are quite colour saturated, you won’t need much to begin with, but layering them for a deeper tone is effortless as well. When applied wet (using a product like MAC’s Fix+ or just plain old water), the intensity of each shade is significantly magnified while the wear time increases as well. Over primer (which I always apply first, as my eyelids do tend to get oily) I’m able to get a minimum of 10 hours’ wear (worn dry), with the colour lasting until I physically remove it (when applied wet).
NARS – Kauai Eyeshadow Duo
NARS – Kauai Eyeshadow Duo
NARS – Kauai Eyeshadow Duo
NARS – Kauai Eyeshadow Duo, with flash
NARS – Kauai Eyeshadow swatches, each shade applied heavier (left), blended out (right)
No one does eclectic colour combinations with the same finesse as NARS, and while the theme of some collections leave me puzzled, it’s always interesting to see what this makeup genius will be inspired by next. After having swatched the two eyeshadow duos at the counter, I must admit that China Seas – a turquoise/burgundy duo – left me somewhat unimpressed (and I so wanted to like it, as the colours are gorgeous), but Kauai blew me away. Definitely pricey, there’s no denying – but when the payoff is THIS good, it seems to cancel out that particular negative. That’s what I tell myself, and it works.
Available now through all NARS counters – I picked mine up at Holt Renfrew, Montréal
It’s no secret that NARS puts forth some of the most uniquely coloured eyeshadow pairings; add to that a formula that almost applies itself, such as that found with both Dolomites and Jardin Perdu of the Night Caller Fall 2014 Collection, and you have clear stand-out pieces. With their ability to be worn either dry or damp, or even mixed together to form a completely new and unheard-of-before colour, both of these limited edition duos are so worth checking out.
NARS | Jardin Perdu & Dolomites, Limited Edition
NARS | Jardin Perdu & Dolomites, Limited Edition
NARS | Jardin Perdu & Dolomites, Limited Edition (with flash)
Jardin Perdu, Limited Edition (CAN $39.00) | A complimentary pairing of steely silver and deep amethyst in a lush shimmer format, that leans more cool than warm. The formula on both is so colour saturated and rich, that you really do need to start with a light hand and build up as you go. I experience absolutely no powdery kickback upon swirling my brushes through either shade, as well as no fallout once they’re applied. Using a damp brush will definitely intensify each colour and bring out their complex shimmer, making the shades of Jardin Perdu last even longer. Staying power is excellent (regardless of whether worn dry or damp), and I get easily 10 hours wear without any fading or creasing (when worn over primer).
NARS | Jardin Perdu, Limited Edition
NARS | Jardin Perdu, Limited Edition
NARS | Jardin Perdu, Limited Edition
NARS | Jardin Perdu, Limited Edition (with flash)
NARS | Jardin Perdu, Limited Edition (swatched dry)
NARS | Jardin Perdu, Limited Edition (swatched damp, left side of each shade only)
My first thought when I saw the promo photos for this collection, was to compare Jardin Perdu to Kauai, which was originally released as part of the Spring 2014 Collection (reviewed here). To begin with, Kauai bears an tarnished gold shade (with pewter undertones) instead of silver, and even though the two purple shades may appear similar at first glance, they display their differences once applied – although the formula with either duo is the same:
NARS | Jardin Perdu (LE) & Kauai
NARS | Jardin Perdu (LE) & Kauai, swatched dry
NARS | Jardin Perdu (LE) & Kauai, swatched damp
Dolomites, Limited Edition (CAN $39.00) | A unique pairing that can work on both cool and warm skin tones, combining a shimmery rose quartz hue and a matte oxblood (with brown undertones in its base). Once again, a stellar formula with either shade, bearing strong colour saturation that can be worn damp or dry; applied with a fluffy brush, I get a light sweep of colour. Using a dampened brush yields more intensity, and I do not experience any fallout or powdery residue kicked up when swirling my brushes through them. An absolutely amazing duo for green and/or blue eyes, Dolomites will also compliment darker eye shades as well as suit a wide range of complexions. Wear time: seriously amazing, lasting minimum 10 hours (when applied over primer) without any fading or creasing.
NARS | Dolomites, Limited Edition
NARS | Dolomites, Limited Edition
NARS | Dolomites, Limited Edition
NARS | Dolomites, Limited Edition
NARS | Dolomites, Limited Edition (swatched dry)
NARS | Dolomites, Limited Edition (swatched damp, left side of each shade only)
Something about NARS Eyeshadow Duos makes them really stand out for me, and while I may not always understand the colour pairings when I first look at them, I can see the genius thinking that went into the product once I start playing around with them. What surprised me the most with both of these duos, is that even though I’ve always been attracted to purples & silver such as those found in Jardin Perdu, I’m absolutely loving the warmer & earthier nature of Dolomites – especially the matte hue, which provides just the right amount of depth with colour to help create the most unique smokey eye look.
Both eyeshadow duos are limited edition and part of the Night Caller Fall 2014 Collection. Find more information via www.narscosmetics.com
*Disclosure: Press samples provided by the company/PR for my unbiased consideration
The first thing that struck me about the NARS x Sarah Moon Collection, were the hauntingly beautiful images on the packaging – it’s details like that which get me every single time. But as we all know by now, it’s the actual products that count and on that score, this collection totally delivers. But I’d be lying if I didn’t say that the outside is important to me too …
Previously reviewed from this collection:
Kate Moss photographed by Sarah Moon
NARS x Sarah Moon Collection · Eyeshadow Duos, Kohliners & Eyelashes
NARS x Sarah Moon · Indes Galantes & Quai des Brumes Eyeshadow Duos
NARS consistently puts out amazing eyeshadow duos, both in terms of colour pairings and quality, eyeshadows that I continue to reach for even now. What’s great about both Indes Galantes & Quai des Brumes (apart from the exotic-sounding names) is that the colours are not only wearable, but even interchangeable as well as combinable. Quality wise, the texture on all four colours display an effortless blendability along with excellent colour saturation, and any powdery kickback seen in the pan results in hardly any fallout upon the skin. Staying power on all — over primer — is faultless, staying true without fading.
Quai des Brumes Eyeshadow Duo, limited edition (CAN $44.00) | The more muted of the two eyeshadow duos (but no less impactful), both shades are in the same colour family:
NARS x Sarah Moon · Quai des Brumes Eyeshadow Duo
NARS x Sarah Moon · Quai des Brumes Eyeshadow Duo swatches
Indes Galantes Eyeshadow Duo, limited edition (CAN $44.00) | Definitely the duo with the stronger pigmentation, the two shades compliment each other while still managing to stand alone:
NARS x Sarah Moon · Indes Galantes Eyeshadow Duo
NARS x Sarah Moon · Indes Galantes Eyeshadow Duo swatches
NARS x Sarah Moon · Indes Galantes & Quai des Brumes Eyeshadow Duos
Kohliner, limited edition (CAN $32.00) | These eye pencils come in a self-sharpening pen format, although neither is retractible (so make sure you don’t twist them up too high). The texture is soft enough to glide effortlessly without any harsh tugging along the skin, and each displays excellent colour saturation & staying power. Once applied, you have about a minute to work with them for any blending; after that they’re set for the duration (or at least, until removed).
NARS x Sarah Moon · Witching Hour & Sichuan Kohliner swatches
NARS x Sarah Moon · Numéro 9 & Numéro 10 Eyelashes
Eyelashes, limited edition (CAN $25.00) | I’m not sure if NARS has ever done lashes before, but I’m not surprised to see that both limited edition pairs are superbly crafted, bearing a clear thin seam with a length that should easily fit most eyes, along with being reusable (with proper care). Perfectly in line with the entire theme of the collection, these lashes can provide a lush yet ethereal finishing touch to eyes. Interesting note: the boxes the lashes come in have a magnet along the side, making it easy to keep both together for storage.
NARS x Sarah Moon · Numéro 9 & Numéro 10 Eyelashes
I’ll keep this to the point: each item shown here is totally wearable — even the lashes. The formulation of both Indes Galantes and Quai des Brumes is well within the usual NARS standard (excellent), and will suit a broad range of skin tones & eye colours. The pencils apply exactly the way you’d want an eyeliner to, although I’d feel a lot more secure if they were retractible. As to the lashes, they provide understated volume and happen to be quite comfortable to wear, so in a nutshell: all definitely worth checking out.
Available at The Bay, Sephora & online
Press samples/As always, all opinions are my own
Always drawing inspiration by his many travels, the NARS Wildfire Collection for Spring 2017 is filled with shades that may initially appear soft, but somehow manage to pack quite an impact just the same. Trust François Nars to create a collection that’s made up of utterly wearable colour, masquerading as neutrals.
On a side note, I was so thrilled to note that one of the eyeshadow duos is named after the part of Greece where my family hails: Thessaloniki — a beautiful city whose harbour and iconic White Tower are instantly recognizable; a city that straddles the line between being a modern metropolis yet still honours its strong classical history.
The other eyeshadow duo of the collection is inspired by a city in Northern Thailand that was once the capital of an ancient kingdom. Situated amongst the highest mountains in the country, its picturesque architecture and breathtaking vistas have earned this city a spot as one of the must-see places to visit in the world. ∗runs to add it to the bucket list∗
The White Tower, Thessaloniki, Greece
Thessalonique Eyeshadow Duo (CAN $43.00) | Say what you will, but NARS creates some of the most exquisite eyeshadows and this brand’s duos rarely disappoint. The cooler leaning palette of the collection, the shades here are filled with complex ultra fine shimmer and display a buttery soft texture. Some powdery kickback is seen when swirling a brush across their surfaces, but that’s easily solved by a quick tap before application. Blendability is excellent and staying power over primer is bang on.
Chiang Mai, Northern Thailand
Chiang Mai Eyeshadow Duo, limited edition (CAN 43.00$)| The warmer leaning of the two palettes, I was immediately drawn to the Summery vibe of these shades (I’m a water baby, after all) then fell hard for how stunning they look together. Applied with a dampened brush does all kinds of wonderful for this aqua, while the saturation of the coppery hue makes it a perfect crease shade.
Velvet Shadow Sticks, limited edition (CAN $35.00/each) | If you’ve yet to try this brand’s Velvet Shadow Stick formula, all I can say is that you’re totally missing out. Housed in a retractable pencil format, these all have a creamy texture complimented by rich colour and complex shimmer — and all are easily layerable for a stronger depth of tone, or sheered out for a wash effect. You do need to work fast if you’ll be blending these out because once they set, they’re pretty much iron-clad (over primer).
Bumpy Ride Blush (CAN $38.00) | Described as a “shimmering candy pink” is spot on; what that fails to say, is that this is not a 1-dimensional Barbie pink hue, but one filled with ultrafine pearly shimmer and bearing an almost creamy-to-the-touch kind of texture. There is some powdery kickback upon swirling a brush across the surface — easily solved by first tapping off any excess before application . The colour is interesting; what appears as a straight-up cool shade has enough pale coral undertones to make it wearable on those with warmer complexions as well. TIP: apply to the apples of the cheeks and blend up & out (towards temples) to add a touch of brightness to the face.
Asphalt Jungle, limited edition Lip Gloss (CAN $33.00) | Described as “shimmering Sangria”, this has got to be one of the best mauve/taupe/blush gloss hues I’ve ever tried. Showing good opacity from the first swipe, the formula is filled with incredibly fine shimmer that adds a nice depth and the texture never feels sticky, while the doe-foot applicator makes application easy-peasy.
Aragón Lip Gloss (CAN $33.00) | Described as “red chestnut”, this unique shade appears to ride the line between brown and red and gives such a lush look to lips, it’s almost indecent. Pigmentation is amazing and gives complete coverage from the first swipe, while the resulting finish is nothing shy of brilliant.
Breaking Free Semi-Matte Lipstick, limited edition (CAN $35.00) | Described as “neon coral”, this shade really excited me at first glance; sadly, that’s as far as it went. Maybe it’s the semi-matte formula, but I found application here to be rather uncooperative and unless your lips are in perfect condition, expect this to catch on and emphasize every flaw/flake. The colour is truly unique and I can see this working in a more editorial setting; the only way it works on me, however, is with a gloss on top.
Kiss Me Stupid Satin Lipstick, limited edition (CAN $35.00) | Described as “burnt sienna”, I would amend that to “burnt sienna light”, instead. There’s a lush creamy feel to this formula and it glides effortlessly along the lips, while the resulting finish has just enough radiance to keep things interesting. Not groundbreaking colour-wise, but a stunning dark nude just the same.
I would just love to be at a NARS brainstorming session and see how they go about creating each collection because of all the brands out there, this is the one that is consistently the most unpredictable (but in a good way, as in marching to the beat of their own drum). Out of everything in this collection, the one that fell short for me was Breaking Free lipstick, although that doesn’t mean someone else can’t make it work on them. If there’s one standout, then I’d say that was Thessalonique (you probably saw that coming, am I right?) as both hues of this palette have to be seen & tried to be believed. The overall look of this collection may definitely be Spring-like, but something tells me that I’ll be wearing these shades long after the season has come and gone …
Available at The Bay, Sephora and online
Media samples kindly provided, all opinions are my own
There’s something about François Nars that I really admire, and apart from his obvious makeup artistry & photography skills, it’s without a doubt the fact that he doesn’t compromise his aesthetic vision for the sake of what’s trending. This latest collaboration with French actress/singer/model/muse Charlotte Gainsbourg is a testament to this philosophy, showcasing a selection of products which reflects this icon’s effortless laissez-faire beauty chic — and all without fanfare, bells, or whistles.
Charlotte Gainsbourg (45), was basically destined to become famous; her father – notable singer/songwriter & director Serge Gainsbourg (1928-1991) has gone on to become one of France’s artistic treasures, while her mother Jane Birkin (yes, the coveted Hermes Birkin bag was named in her honour) is one of England’s icons, having gained fame through her acting/singing and songwriting talents. An impressive pedigree indeed, yet by all accounts Charlotte is humble and incredibly down-to-earth AND she has that French je ne said quoi … damn it.
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Right off the bat, the collection stands out by virtue of the packaging: a stylized military khaki green hue with gold accents, yet still with that same classic NARS rubberized feel.
Multiple Tint, limited edition (CAN $49.00/each) | According to Charlotte, the Multiple Tints are her favourite items from the entire collection, as they are sheer enough to provide natural looking colour without overwhelming the face as well as efficient multi-taskers. Named after her children (Jo & Alice), as well as her father’s pet name for her mom (Jeanette), these are balm-like in texture without any noticeable shimmer and can be used on cheeks, lips, or even the eyes (not that I’d wear them there, but perfect for that ‘eye-gloss’ type of effect). Years ago when NARS came out with a limited edition trio of coloured Multiple Tints, I jumped all over them and searched high & low to compare them to these, but they appear to have been swallowed up in the beauty vortex happening here at the moment. Moving along … I love these for that ultimate natural glow they give to cheeks and while they can be built up for more depth, their true strength lies in how seamlessly they can be blended into the skin. Staying power over foundation is pretty good and you can even extend that by layering a powdered blush on top, if desired.
Velvet Duo Eyeshadow, limited edition (CAN $43.00/each) | Paying homage to both her French and British heritages, these eyeshadow duos bear complimentary hues but can also be mixed & matched or paired up easily with other shades as well. Created to work in harmony with the rest of the collection, the textures are incredibly fine milled and display no fall down upon application, while the pigmentation is perfectly balanced so that you can lay down a wash of colour or deepen the tone through layering — it’s basically a question of taste and the type of brush used. BONUS: these shades can also be applied with a dampened brush; I suggest that you stick to one corner of each shade for that, in order to keep the rest of the texture intact for dry use.
Rue Allent – shimmering frost & deep forest green, although the latter appears more like a blackened forest green to me although it still manages to not come off as an opaque black, making it a wonderfully new way to sport a smokey eye.
Old Church Street – golden champagne & deep slate teal (matte), a gorgeous duo that really makes eyes the focus but can be used in other ways as well; applied with a dampened brush, the teal becomes a smoldering liner shade while the shimmery hue can even double as a highlighter.
Kohliner, limited edition (CAN $31.00/each) | If you’ve yet to try any of the NARS Kohliners, you’re missing out on one of the best creamy eyeliners there are. The retractible pencils style is my favourite for how easy it is to use, not to mention the hygienic factor, and the shades of this collection also happen to be 100% wearable hues that will work with a variety of eye looks. Don’t be fooled by the creamy texture of these pencils either; yes they can be smudged out for a diffused and/or smokey look but they also happen to be incredibly long-lasting too. Word of warning: work one eye at a time because once they set, they’re pretty much there for the duration.
Lip Tint, limited edition (CAN $33.00/each) | So here’s an unexpected — yet totally pleasant — surprise: the shade seen in the tube of these Lip Tints seems to be colour-drenched and quite opaque, but once again appearances can be deceiving. The formula of each is buttery and glides easily along the lips via the use of a flocked doe-foot applicator, delivering light colour which makes all eminently wearable, leaving behind a very comfortable lip-feel. These non-sticky glosses have pretty decent staying power despite the fact that they’re all relatively sheer, but they can always be applied over either a matching liner or lipstick for more depth of tone — although why you’d want to do that is beyond me; they’re ridiculously gorgeous as is.
There are a few more pieces of this collection that I hadn’t received at the time of posting, and I’ll be sure to include any edits when that changes. Apart from the colour cosmetics end of things, the other new items from this collection include the new Hydrating Glow Tint and the Au Poil Brush Roll (all limited edition & reviews coming soon), but surprisingly there isn’t a blush, bronzer, or nail polish in sight as you’d expect with a Summer collection — which once again clearly demonstrates that François Nars does indeed march to the beat of his own drum: eclectic, original, and totally outside of the box. Thank God.
Available May at all NARS retailers
Media samples kindly provided, all opinions are my own
The exquisiteness of Guerlain’s Gold Wish 2021 Holiday Collection has left me speechless, as this capsule collection so perfectly embodies the spirit of the holiday season while being utterly wearable at the same time. Then there’s the off the chart display factor …
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Natalia Vodianova for Guerlain
Météorites Gold Pearls, limited edition (CAN $77.00) | Housed in a silver tin embossed with the brand’s iconic beehive pattern, its golden lid bears a stylized flower motif. In 1987, Guerlain took loose powder and pressed it into this pearl shape, and thus the legendary Météorites were born. There are less than a handful of experts in charge of their creation, and each precious little ball is finished by hand. But what is this exactly? That’s a little harder to define, but can be summed up in a word: magic. Not exactly a setting powder (although it can certainly function this way), this is more of a finishing product, providing a truly beautiful radiance to skin. Incredibly fine-milled and lightweight, this gossamer powder lays down almost invisibly, and yet still manages to give your complexion that indefinable something extra that will make people comment on how amazing your skin looks.
This year’s version might appear to be warm-leaning at first glance, but there’s are cooler hues in the mix that will help make this suitable to a broad range of skin tones. As can be seen in the below swatch, there are roughly 5 shades (to my eyes) that include soft brick, peachy-pink, golden, and icy white, that when combined provide a gorgeous glow — one that can even be adjusted somewhat, depending on which combination of colours your brush picks up.
I have been collecting Météorites for years, and while there are many setting/finishing powders available, this will forever be the one I turn to first. The fact that even my husband comments on my complexion whenever I have this on, says it all.
Gold Sequins Rouge G Lipstick Case, limited edition (CAN $45.00) | One of two new cases created specifically for this collection (Ruby Sequins, not shown), it comes decorated with a layer of sequins and housed in a protective velour drawstring pouch. With its stunning jewel-like effect, the case pops open to reveal a double mirror, perfect for lipstick touch-ups. Another perk is that the case can be used with any Rouge G lipstick shade (sold separately), so you can whip this little baby out all year long and enjoy the compliments every time you do.
N° 34 Gold Red Rouge G Lipstick, limited edition* (CAN $41.00) | One of two shades released with the collection (N° 35 Gold Brick, not shown), this is a fiery red hue with delicate gold marbling that serves to add a stunning radiance. The Rouge G formula is one that needs to be experienced to be understood; richly pigmented, the texture is luxuriously creamy and glides effortlessly along the lips. While not meant to be as long-lasting as a matte, the staying power here is impressive nonetheless, leaving lips feeling thoroughly hydrated and moisturized throughout wear. As to reapplication, I have no issue, as I welcome the opportunity to pull this beauty (with the case) out in public to do so. Over & over again, I might add.
This Prestige Edition Gold Bee Sequins case accompanied by the brand’s N°214 best selling red shade (CAN $350.00, available exclusive at Holt Renfrew & Guerlain.com) has been created by Atelier Baqué Molinié, and boasts a ‘bee’ woven entirely from gold thread, embroidered with glittering beads, and sewn onto a delicate padded velvet fishnet backdrop. Literally, a jewelled work of art.
Deep Plum.Shiny Gold Mad Eyes Contrast Shadow Duo, limited edition (CAN $48.00) | One of two dual-ended eyeshadow sticks (Icy Grey/Dazzling Silver, not shown), these complimentary shades comes in a retractable pen format. The texture on both is buttery smooth, gliding effortlessly along the delicate skin around eyes, and can be blended out for a diffused finish or layered up for more impact. I like how these shades don’t set too quickly, meaning you’ll have time to play around with them before they do. When worn over primer, staying power is excellent, with the colours staying true without fading.
Sparkling Gold Mad Eyes Brow Framer, limited edition (CAN $52.00) | This unique addition to the collection, is set to give your brows a little extra zhuzhing for the holidays, because … why not? The gel formula comes in a universal taupe shade (that said, I’m thinking that the result on very dark or ultra fair brows can come off as more editorial, but might be made to work just the same — you’d have to test it out first), and is infused with fine golden pearls to provide a luminous finish. Personally, I think this is quite original and unexpected, and I love how the finish is lightly visible yet still elegant.
Guerlain is a brand that’s very dear to me — not only for the quality and performance of their products (whether that’s makeup, skincare, or fragrance), but for their many philanthropic initiatives as well. That said, this year’s holiday collection is truly outstanding and one that I have no doubt whatsoever, will sell out lightning-fast. I’m not happy that the bronzer released with this collection isn’t available in Canada (why, Guerlain? Whyyyyyy?) but I console myself with the fact that it’s a shade I already own. But STILL. So I’m giving you a head’s up: run, don’t walk to your nearest counter and treat yourself!
Available at Guerlain Boutiques nationwide
Kindly provided by Guerlain for my unbiased consideration
*Purchased product
