Just because it is sold out right now - doesn't mean it won't be back in stock soon
Foreword
That moment when you realize that you were among first lucky customers to order the most sought-after Lisa Eldridge lipsticks, but somehow your review went live in the middle of April. As much as I do not want to bother readers with unneeded personal life details - let's just say I had a very turbulent period from December to February and now that [thank God!] everything is getting back to normal (and I found time to go through boxes of stuff I bought before Christmas), I came across an absolutely exquisite plush velvet makeup pouch filled with three [currently sold out] red lipsticks. It would be a shame not to review these bad boys for you guys, because they will be back in stock at some point in the future and if you want to know whether or not they are worth the splurge and how do they compare to other high-end lipsticks - then just keep on scrolling!
About the Collection
If you pride yourself on being a makeup junkie, then you already know who Lisa Eldridge is (only one of the best makeup artists in the entire World). I have been watching Lisa's tutorials for more than seven years now and it goes without saying that I learned a lot throughout this time. Lisa taught me a lot of things and first that come to mind are: the art of pin-point concealing, how to glue individual lashes, apply gel eyeliner and finally - how to wear a red lipstick.
Lisa is one of the most inspiring women to me and one of these days I will treat myself to a couple of her rings (the Lisa and the Romy are going to look perfect on my index fingers). A girl can dream, ok?
The Ultimate True Velvet Collection (75 GBP; Made in Italy) includes three of Lisa's brand new lipsticks and a makeup pouch. When the line is back in stock, go for this set instead of individual lipsticks, mainly because a) you save a bit of money and b) you get a gorgeous bag for free.
Packaging: although Lisa wants to amp up the packaging for her next launch, I still think these lipsticks are simply luxurious. I love how her logo is engraved on the cap and adding a magnetic closure was a great idea on her and her team's behalf.
Now, the most unique part is that the actual lipstick bullet was designed to look like real velvet fabric. Sadly, it is almost impossible to capture this ethereal effect on camera; however, in real life - Plush True Velvet Lipstick is one of the most beautiful things you will ever come across.
Formula: this lipstick has a creamy matte [cruelty-free, not scented] formula, one that gives 100% colour opacity in one swipe, feeling ultra lightweight and moisturizing on the lips. Just as promised, it will not sit in lip lines once it starts to wear off, which is something I truly appreciate. Unlike some other popular formulas, this one does not dry your lips out and will not slide around or feather out. Lips look smooth and velvety, where there is still a slight noticeable sheen. Shade Velvet Morning is a touch more matte compared to the other two.
Application: you can always use a matching lip pencil with your lipstick, but personally speaking - I only use a lip brush to create a perfectly defined pout. Even with my uber dry lips, I find that I do not need to layer a lip balm underneath this lipstick.
Wear: these last a decent amount of time on my lips, up to 6-7 hours. You will need to do minor touch ups after eating though, which is not a big deal for me. Lips remain looking smooth all day long.
Please click to zoom in
As always - none of my swatches are edited (no added saturation, brightness or anything else here, baby) and I only rely on natural daylight.
Please click to zoom in
Colours: initially I wanted to only invest in one lipstick, however, I am glad that I changed my mind. Three reds look nothing alike and every shade is lovely in its own way. You get: Velvet Morning (fiery, orange-red), Velvet Ribbon (true blue-red) and Velvet Jazz (brick red). While the latter one does look a bit brownish in the tube, on my light-neutral complexion it leans towards a deep wine red. Lisa created an actual replica of a vintage 1920's brick red here, so to me - Velvet Jazz is the most special shade out of the three.
I believe that Lisa picked the best shades of red (one could ever ask for) and I know I am going to get a lot of mileage out of these.
Comparisons: the closest matte lipstick formula that comes to mind is Pat McGrath MatteTrance (which, you know, I am a huge fan of). Back in the day Pat also started off with only three shades and look at her lipstick line now. Both brands are in a league of their own and I would highly recommend them.
Verdict
I might be fashionably late to the [review] party, but let me tell you - Plush True Velvet Lipstick is amazing. I would expect nothing less from Lisa and if you get a chance to invest in one of these once they are back in stock - do so with your eyes closed (and you can always thank me later). A++ here. I truly hope and pray that Lisa decides to expand her makeup line in the future, so that we all can enjoy more of her perfect creations.
What do you guys think about this collection? Let's chat some more in the comments!
More online: lisaeldridge.com (worldwide)
Purchased product; full disclaimer here
