In honor of the introduction of a new Pure Matte Lipstick (Madere) in NARS’ spring collection, I thought it would be useful to swatch the whole shade range.
NARS has two different matte lip options: Pure Matte Lipsticks (skinny lipstick tubes, $25) and Velvet Matte Lip Pencil (a chubby lip “crayon,” $24). I asked a NARS sales associate what the difference was (aside from packaging), and the impression I got was that the Velvet Matte pencil has more glide in its application, but the Pure Matte lipstick might be longer wearing. But the Pure Matte webpage also alludes to hydrating matte-ness with a formula that includes mango butter.
Has anyone tried both? Can you elaborate on the differences between formulas?
Madere is a pale, milky pink. Tashkent is pale peach. Tonkin is a dusty, terracotta rose. Bangkok is a cool rose pink. Vesuvio is aptly named, a bright cherry red. Terre de Feu is red plum. Volga is deep, vampy purple-wine.
Since these lipsticks are $25 each, they ship for free from NARScosmetics.com.
I think Madere is the hardest color ever for me to wear (and I’m pretty fair). When I put it on it basically looks exactly how my lips look when I have a bad cold and they are all dried out. I’m trying it under some other colors to see how it works out.
I just got the Madere lipstick too and it’s total concealer lips city for me. However it’s great to layer underneath darker/bright colors because it helps mute the color a bit. I’ve tried wearing actual concealer on my lips and it’s just too drying.
I’m so glad you posted these swatches! I may get Terre de Feu. Tonkin looks nice, but I may have to try it on before buying it.
Terre de Feu looks amazing!
Thank you for the swatches as always, Karla.