More Red Lipstick with Make Up For Ever

Several readers inquired whether Make Up For Ever #21 Rouge Artist Intense Lipstick ($19.00 for 0.12 oz.) was a dupe for Kat Von D’s Adora Lipstick yesterday, but I didn’t have it to compare then–obviously I do now! It was meant to be, I suppose, as it arrived yesterday afternoon. I knew I had to swatch and review it immediately!

It is and isn’t a dupe. It is the closest I’ve seen, even after going through the Scarlet Season posts from last year, and it has some of that shimmer-metallic sheen, but the metallic finish is much stronger in Adora, which gives it a darker look. It is also glossier and less matte than Adora. The color itself is quite close, slightly brighter, but the red itself seems right there with Adora. #21 is a bright cherry red with a very slight blue base, but it doesn’t read cool when I wear it. It applies opaque in just one layer, and it wears for six hours with ease.

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• Product: 29/30
• Value: 8/10
• Ease of Use: 4/5
• Packaging: 4/5

RECOMMENDATION: If you can’t track down Adora, you might find comfort in #21.

AVAILABILITY: Sephora

See more photos & swatches!

Make Up For Ever #21 Rouge Artist Intense Lipstick

Make Up For Ever #21 Rouge Artist Intense Lipstick

Make Up For Ever #21 Rouge Artist Intense Lipstick

Make Up For Ever #21 Rouge Artist Intense Lipstick