Illamasqua Shard Lipstick ($24.00 for 0.14 oz.) is described as a “red violet [with a matte finish].” It’s a deepened, slightly muted, raspberry wine with a matte finish. NARS Afghan Red is redder. NARS Valparaiso is a touch lighter. MAC Red Dwarf is lighter. Guerlain Flirt is less matte. Guerlain Bee is less matte. See comparison swatches.

It was opaque applied with rich, full color coverage. The consistency was very lightly creamy, but it was noticeably creamier compared to some other Illamasqua lipsticks in the range, which can sometimes drag or pull at the lip. It does tend to skip a little when I tried applying it from the tube, but it was barely noticeable. It wore incredibly well, topping in at six and a half hours, and then a stain that lingered for another two hours. While it had a distinct matte finish, it didn’t feel drying while I wore it (but not hydrating).  If you have drier lips, you’ll definitely want to prep by both exfoliating and laying down balm about twenty to thirty minutes prior to applying this shade, though, as the drier, matte finish can be unforgiving if there are any flakes or dryness on the lips.

P.S. — I don’t see it on Sephora yet, but it should release there soon (hopefully).

Illamasqua Shard Lipstick

Illamasqua Shard Lipstick

Illamasqua Shard Lipstick

Illamasqua Shard Lipstick

Illamasqua Shard Lipstick

Illamasqua Shard Lipstick