As mentioned from my previous post, Smashbox Always On Matte quickly became a runner-up (close second to Anastasia) in my liquid lipstick category of sorts. So much so that I added two more shades to satisfy this inexplicable satiety for all things matte. Is the beloved formula consistent across the board? find out which one fell short!
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I am into nudes lately so after searching high and low (practically sold out everywhere), I was lucky enough to snag Stepping Out (deep nude) at Ulta online. Similar to the louder shades (Drivers’ Seat, Disorderly, Thrill Seeker, all reviewed and swatched here), this liquid lipstick has powerhouse pigmentation, commendable longevity, ease of application, and non-drying formula. The doe foot applicator has a hole in the middle which locks the pigment thus eliminating the need to reapply: one swipe renders phenomenal opacity! The shape of the tip (pointed) performs better than Anastasia as it hugs the lips and outlines a tad easier.
I have quite a stash of nude liquid lipsticks so for better reference, I thought of swatching each one, in case you are looking for the perfect neutral shade. I have medium skin tone so I naturally gravitate towards warmer tone so except for MAC Back In Vouge (which by the way isn’t a favorite formula-wise, reviewed here), you will find the following shades quite close. My most worn happens to be Anastasia Ashton (brick brown), followed by Smashbox Stepping Out, then Stila Firenze (VIB Rouge exclusive).
In my experience, very dark (read: gothic, vampy) liquid lipstick tends to apply patchy and uneven. Such is the case with Smashbox Girl Gang (plum) so while I can fix it with careful hand skills (yeah it requires one, haha), I am not fully impressed.
From this row of berries, my most worn is Anastasia Soft Lilac. I own two by mistake ‘tho. Lesson learned: review your stash before engaging in some impulse purchase.
What’s your favorite liquid lipstick?
You had me at non-drying! I love both shades you're sporting
I could never pull off Girl Gang but both loo lovely on you. You can wear ANY lip color I swear!
Stepping Out is on my wishlist. I'm a liquid lipstick addict, so I know I'll love these.
Thanks for the great swatches!
Anastasia Soft Lilac is my favorite. And both of the Smashbox look great on you!
Those colors look great on you, and I totally agree with you about dark vampy lippies. They totally require a steady hand as they tend to go on patchy.
Oh my these look amazing!