Givenchy Grenat Initie (307) Le Rouge ($36.00 for 0.12 oz.) is described as a “deep red.” It’s a medium-dark, ruby red with subtle warm undertones and a smooth, luminous finish. OCC Role Play is more matte, shimmery. Giorgio Armani The Red is cooler-toned. Giorgio Armani Red Fuchsia is pinker. Guerlain Garconne is a bit darker. Dior Diva is more matte. Buxom Scoundrel is brighter. See comparison swatches.

I’m seriously making a pact between you and me that I am not to buy any more Le Rouges until Sephora does their % off during the holiday season, except any limited edition shades that I’m unable to resist. I only picked this one up to qualify for free shipping when I bought the limited edition summer shades from Givenchy’s own website (threshold was $75), but it is a stunner. A very classic take on red with the signature glossy sheen of the Le Rouge range. That sheen gives it such a smooth, plump, and juicy effect on the lips; color just looks smoother, more even, and lovely on lips. Some lipsticks can catch or emphasize imperfections on the lip, but this is a formula that masks imperfections. The consistency is lightly creamy but not too slippery, so it doesn’t move around or feather while worn. It’s nicely hydrating, wears a solid six hours (with a residual stain that lingers after), and is incredibly pigmented.

Givenchy Grenat Initie (307) Le Rouge

Givenchy Grenat Initie (307) Le Rouge

Givenchy Grenat Initie (307) Le Rouge

Givenchy Grenat Initie (307) Le Rouge

Givenchy Grenat Initie (307) Le Rouge

Givenchy Grenat Initie (307) Le Rouge