Giorgio Armani #200 Night Berry Ecstasy Lacquer ($38.00 for 0.20 fl. oz.) is a muted, medium-dark red with warm undertones and very fine pearl. Maybelline Classic (P, $7.99) is cooler (90% similar). Anastasia Bordeaux (-, $16.00) is darker, cooler (90% similar). MAC Courting Chic (LE, $20.00) is lighter, more muted, cooler (85% similar). Anastasia Vamp (-, $16.00) is cooler (85% similar). Chanel Dzhari (608) (LE, $30.00) is more shimmery, lighter, less pigmented (85% similar). MAC Viva Glam I (LE, $21.00) is lighter, warmer (85% similar). Chanel Flaming Lips (812) (LE, $30.00)(85% similar). Urban Decay Brickhouse (DC, $26.00) is less shimmery, lighter, brighter (80% similar). Ciate Venus (P, $18.00) is more shimmery, more muted (80% similar). See comparison swatches / view dupes side-by-side.

The Ecstasy Lacquer formula is supposed to have the shine of a gloss, color and hydration of a lipstick, and the long-wear of a stain, though they say “applied in a single layer for a subtle touch of color … or in a layered application for a bold, statement lip.” It has a floral scent, which is noticeable in the tube and for an hour or so of wear (particularly strong when it is drying down). There is a slight taste to me, as well. Initially, the formula is thin and more water-like, but after you’ve applied it, the consistency thickens, levels out, and “adheres” to your lips in a very comfortable wear. The consistency is mostly non-sticky and gradually gets a lightly tacky about half-way through wear. #200 Night Berry had semi-opaque coverage in a single layer, which applied fairly evenly overall, but it could have been more even. It was comfortable to wear over a six hour period and was lightly hydrating, but it still had some shine even at the six-hour mark.

Giorgio Armani #200 Night Berry Ecstasy Lacquer

Giorgio Armani #200 Night Berry Ecstasy Lacquer

Giorgio Armani #200 Night Berry Ecstasy Lacquer

Giorgio Armani #200 Night Berry Ecstasy Lacquer

Giorgio Armani #200 Night Berry Ecstasy Lacquer

Giorgio Armani #200 Night Berry Ecstasy Lacquer

Giorgio Armani #200 Night Berry Ecstasy Lacquer

Giorgio Armani #200 Night Berry Ecstasy Lacquer