Urban Decay was always my favourite makeup brand until last year when I was completely blown away by both the NARS Radiant Creamy Concealer (review) and NARS Radiant Cream Compact Foundation (review). I’ve tried quite a few different products from NARS, however I’d never tried any lip products.. that was until I received the NARS Bolero Velvet Matte Lip Pencil.
I was so excited to finally own one of the NARS lip products and NARS Bolero is a shade I’d been eyeing up for a while, and had mentioned that I loved it to Latasha so she bought it for me – how lovely is that?! NARS describe their Matte Lip Pencils as “long-wearing, super-saturated coverage in a velvety matte formula that nourishes the lips” and are available in a total of eleven shades in the permanent line retailing for £18 each. As well as their Matte Lip Pencils, NARS also have Satin Lip Pencils and Velvet Gloss Pencils, all of which have many shades so there are so many shades and finishes to choose from.
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The NARS Lip Pencils are described as having the application of a lipstick, with the convenience of a lip pencil. The NARS Matte Lip Pencils contain emollients which create the creamy texture, and supposedly contain a ‘combination of unique silicones ensures long-lasting, seamless colour for hours’.
The NARS Lip Pencils in all three finishes aren’t twist up pencils, they have to be sharpened with a jumbo sharpener. I’ve seen a lot of people criticise this for how much of the product is wasted but by using a good quality, very sharp sharpener I’ve found wastage to be minimal. I really love the concept that these pencils can be used for lining and/or an all over the lip colour.
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I love the sleek, matte, black packaging on the Lip Pencils and that the end is colour code for the pencil inside which is brilliant if you own more than one shade. The nib is quite thick, but not too thick that it affects application, although depending on how much you sharpen it, you could give the pencil more a precise point should you wish.
Due to the matte formula I always ensure my lips are prepped prior to application using my delicious Lush Bubblegum Lip Scrub followed by a thin layer of the very nourishing NUXE Rêve de Miel Lip Balm (review). The NUXE Rêve de Miel Lip Balm really is the perfect lip balm to apply before applying any matte lip products as it has a matte finish itself so it doesn’t add to much ‘slip’ to the lips, but still allows the pencil or lipstick to glide across the lips.
NARS Bolero Velvet Matte Lip Pencil Review / Swatches
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With matte lip products I’ve tried previously they’ve had somewhat of a drier texture, but this NARS Bolero Matte Lip Pencil is so incredibly creamy and a dream to apply. I’ve not experienced any tugging or skipping during application which is unheard of with matte lip products. This lip pencil is so easy to apply, and when I press my lips together it feels really smooth and velvety. Bolero is absolutely gorgeous, and the perfect ‘me’ shade as a coral lip obsessive.
NARS Bolero is described as a ‘pink cantaloupe’ although I think it’s much more of a milky orangey pink shade, which looks more coral on the lips. I love how it’s such a wearable shade in that it’s not too bright, and not too milky pale.. it’s just beautiful. Bolero is often likened to MAC’s Ever Hip lipstick except with a matte finish, so if you’re desolate about not owning Ever Hip, Bolero is a must. I just know that NARS Bolero is going to get so much use during the Summer with a accompanying matching coral cream blush.
I adore this lip pencil. It applies so well, and looks so pretty on my lips.. I just can’t rave about it enough, I can totally see and understand the hype around these pencils. I need (yes need) to buy some other shades and try the other finishes as I’m seriously infatuated. The wear time of Bolero is also impressive with four to five hours with eating and drinking.
The matte formula is slightly drying, but that’s to be expected with a matte lip pencil but I simply dab a little more of my NUXE Rêve de Miel Lip Balm all over my lips in a gentle pressing motion. I cannot thank Latasha enough for this gorgeous Lip Pencil, I love it so, so much and I’m very happy to finally own a NARS lip product and cannot wait to try some more shades….
If you own any of the NARS Lip Pencils, which shades do you recommend I try next?
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Hi, my name is Gemma, and I’m the writer behind GemmaEtc.com. I’m a true beauty obsessive, and love writing about anything to do with beauty. In addition to Gemma Etc., I also own MakeupMuddle.com, and love sharing my thoughts and feelings about beauty and lifestyle products.
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