MAC Viva Glam Rihanna Lipstick & Lipglass Reviews, Photos, Swatches
MAC Viva Glam Rihanna Lipstick
MAC Viva Glam Rihanna Lipstick ($16.00 for 0.10 oz.) is described as a “blue-red [with a Frost finish].” It’s a brightened, medium, slightly muted, red with neutral to warm undertones. It doesn’t really read blue-based on me, but when I swatch it next to really blue-based reds and really orange-based reds, it doesn’t seem like it leans either direction. I think your undertones and natural lip color may influence whether it looks cooler or warmer on you more so than the average lipstick shade. It wore well for five hours and was lightly hydrating–the consistency just glided on well, and it was a really lovely lipstick all-around. The color coverage was opaque. However, mine had a waxy scent, no vanilla at all, so I don’t know if that’s a batch inconsistency or not–I purchased mine from MAC’s website directly. MAC Red Necessity (LE, $20.00) is brighter, cooler. Chanel Audacieuse (134) (LE, $34.00) is lighter. MAC Prepare for Pleasure (LE, $16.00) is a little darker. Edward Bess Eternal Passion (P, $32.00) is warmer. NARS Hyde Park (P, $25.00) is more muted. Guerlain L’Heure Bleue (P, $35.00) is darker. Dior Marilyn (LE, $36.00) is more matte. See comparison swatches.
MAC Viva Glam Rihanna Lipglass ($15.00 for 0.17 fl. oz.) “blue-red [with a Frost finish].” It’s a soft, muted red with subtle cool undertones and gold and pink shimmer. It had semi-opaque color coverage, applied evenly for the most part, and only minimally settled into lip lines. It lasted for four hours on its own. Revlon Strawberry (P, $7.49) is warmer. NYX Sunrise (P, $4.99) is brighter, warmer. Dior Ceremony Red (LE, $28.00) is darker. See comparison swatches.
Viva Glam Rihanna
LELimited Edition. $20.00.
Viva Glam Rihanna
LELimited Edition. $19.00.
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MAC Viva Glam Rihanna Lipstick
MAC Viva Glam Rihanna Lipstick
MAC Viva Glam Rihanna Lipstick
MAC Viva Glam Rihanna Lipstick
MAC Viva Glam Rihanna Lipstick
MAC Viva Glam Rihanna Lipstick
MAC Viva Glam Rihanna Lipstick
MAC Viva Glam Rihanna Lipstick
MAC Viva Glam Rihanna Lipstick
MAC Viva Glam Rihanna Lipglass
MAC Viva Glam Rihanna Lipglass
MAC Viva Glam Rihanna Lipglass
MAC Viva Glam Rihanna Lipglass
MAC Viva Glam Rihanna Lipglass
MAC Viva Glam Rihanna Lipglass
MAC Viva Glam Rihanna Lipglass
MAC Viva Glam Rihanna Lipglass over Lipstick
MAC Viva Glam Rihanna Lipglass over Lipstick
MAC Viva Glam Rihanna Lipglass over Lipstick
Beautiful pictures as always! I love VG Rihanna on almost everyone!
Thanks, Julie!
It’s gorgeous! Especially the two together.
They definitely work well together!
i adore how rih is taking cues from such classic lip colors in most of her MAC collab… first ruby woo and now revlon’s “cherries in the snow” (it seems to me, anyway). i love all the play on classic shades, as well as the idea of paying homage to some of the cult faves.
Glad you liked her choices, Kayce!
Although I´m not a fan of frost finishes, this lipstick might change my mind. It looks so lovely on you, Christine! I think I need to try this on myself to see whether it will appear too frosty for my liking or not.
Definitely give it a try! I think it’s a softer frost compared to some of MAC’s frost finishes!
It’s not an overly frosty frost. It’s more of a subtle frost.
I did get both of these. I haven’t worn them yet, but when I swatched the lipstick on my hand it looked more like a “foil” finish than the frosts of yesteryear. I used to wear a frosted pink lipstick from either Brucci or Wet N’ Wild in the 8th grade (we are talking 1985 here) and frosts didn’t look like this back then, LOL! The finish on the lipstick is very similar to the finish Kat Von D Foiled Love Lipstick. The color is very close to Beranice. I have both Beranice and Adora.
It didn’t seem as metallic/frosted on me than the Kat Von D Adora – which I find is super metallic!
Yes, Adora is very metallic. I was only comparing them on my hand. My lips may have told a different story, LOL.
I wore the Kat Von D Adora and Rihanna viva glam side by side – close up they have their differences; KVD Adora is way more metallic and a slightly cooler red but from afar they look exactly the same to me. I think both are great lipsticks.
I totally agree! I think frost is too strong a word; foil is better.
I just bought the lipstick!!!! 😀 This is the first ever that I was able to purchase an LE item from MAC. Yayyy!!!
Yay!!
Mine did have the regular vanilla scent – so yours must have been a fluke. I am very cool toned, and this looks ever so slightly warm on me as well. It appears to lean that way more — possibly because of the shimmer? I didn’t get the gloss – wish I had as it looks lovely. I might have to grab that when I get the MSF’s from the new collection (I’ve yet to get Stereo Rose!)
That’s good to hear! It smelled pretty bad, so I was hoping it was just a one-off.
I’m going to purchase the lipstick, had a chance to swatch it @ Nordstrom & thankfully it doesn’t look frosty + the 100% donation to Hiv/Aids individuals/families, looking good & helping others while doing so $16+ well spent.
Viva Glam is one of the best charitable programs ever!
I’m kind of excited about these! I don’t have any other MAC Rihanna products, but I think this shade is really pretty.
I think the packaging is really fun, too!
Very pretty, especially with the gloss over it! The lipstick is very similar to Kat Von D’s foiled lipstick in Adora (Adora is a little brighter though) which I have, so I will be passing. I don’t remember noticing any scent or lack there of when I swatched it at Nordstrom’s yesterday, but interesting!
I would say Adora is warmer, too 🙂
Weird, when I wore them side by side, Adora was so much cooler on me.
How is this compared to RiRi Woo?
They’re completely different shades! RiRi Woo is extremely matte, darker, and has strong blue undertones!
I really like the shade & packaging of the lipstick! I can’t wait to check this out in stores!
Hope you like it!
Does it compare well with Queen’s Sin, my long-ago love? 🙂
I think the finish of Queen’s Sin alone makes it more different – Queen’s Sin is almost like a matte metallic, as it is metallic but not really glossy! It’s also darker!
It’s a lot prettier than I expected, though I’m not sure it’s *special* enough to warrant another red lipstick in my arsenal.
There are so many great reds, and many of us have a lot of them, so I understand adding another one might not be reasonable!
I was kind of nervous about this when I bought it but it’s really, really stunning! Far more wearable in my opinion than some of the other recent Viva Glam campaigns. Plus, I love that it’s not really duped by anything in the Rihanna collections from last year. I think the lipstick might become a mainstay for me as it looks great–on me it pulls slightly warm. I’ve already bought an extra 🙂
Plus, I love the packaging. Very sleek and sexy.
Good to hear that you felt like it pulled warmer on you, too, Sarah!
I also brought an extra lippie and lipglass l luv this frkst lippie and its proceeds is going to a greater cause.
Love the swatches!! Have mine in my shopping cart online, just waiting to process for the new release tomorrow. Thanks for all you do!
My pleasure, Shannon! xo
You are seriously the only thing that hold me back from having absolutely zero self restraint when it comes to buying new makeup. I always tell myself “take a breathe, wait a minute, Christine will post her review soon and you can make sure a) you don’t own it, and b) Christine says it’s worth it.”
Thank you SO much for being my go to daily pick me up, and my best friend when it comes to making great makeup choices!
Awwww!! 🙂 That is so sweet of you to say. Thank you, Sarah <3
Oh my gosh, this colour looks beautiful! I hope that I’ll be able to get it as it is a part of the limited Viva Glam range and therefore it’s justified to spend a bit more mone (that’s what I think, lol). 🙂
Do you know when it’ll be available in Europe? (:
Greetings from Austria! 🙂
Kathi
I believe it’s already out in the UK, but I don’t have any specific dates for outside of U.S./Canada!
*wheezes*
goodbye, money…
Right out the door!
it’s a great cause, at least!
Wow, I really see what you mean by the confusion between the description and the apparent colour tone – it doesn’t look blue at all! It does, however, look nice on you:-)
The gloss looks really good too, both by Itself and over the lipstick!
Yeah, I walked around my house, went outside, turned on different types of lighting, stood by windows… and it was an interesting shade to deal with, LOL.
It looks good on you, Christine! But, I knew I wouldn’t like this color. I was waiting for your swatch to confirm that I really just don’t like it. I don’t know if it’s the Frost finish that turns me off, her on another campaign with MAC or just the off beat red. Hmph, I’m sure a few other ladies might like this tho!
Aww, that is too bad, JJ!
Yes! I’ve been waiting for this review to help sway me and I’m swayed! I think this is a beautiful lipstick and I will definitely be purchasing this. I know people have their opinions about Rihanna and may not purchase this, but I’m not motivated by the fact that Rihanna is the spokesperson. I will be purchasing this set because it’s for a great cause and it looks beautiful.
Sorry it took so long 🙁 I bought it the minute it launched, but there was no choice on shipping speed – it arrived later on this past Monday evening… tested it ASAP on Tuesday. Again, I’m so sorry!
Looks great on you. What blush are you wearing?
Here you go!
THE MAKEUP LOOK
On eyes: Tom Ford Escapade Cream Eyeshadow, Urban Decay Rockstar Eyeliner. On face: Guerlain Parure de Lumiere Foundation, Kevyn Aucoin The Celestial Liquid Highlighter (mixed with foundation), Hourglass Luminous Light Ambient Lighting Powder. On cheeks: Hourglass Mood Exposure Ambient Lighting Blush / Revlon Naughty Nude Blush.
Suits you so well. Just lovely.
Love this color! The packaging is adorable too.
I think you typo-d lipstick in the 2nd portion, should read lipglass. Was slightly confused and thought there was two lipsticks 😀
It’s fixed!
This looks great on you! I should be getting mine any day now, I’m glad to hear it’s a good lipstick!
Yay!
Well, it was only a matter of time before MAC won me back… however temporary it may be. I’m a sucker for a red lip.
Haha!
Christine, is it similar to Dior Diorific Minuit?
Minuit is brighter, pinker.
Such a pretty red on the lipstick, and love the lipglass as well! Hope we’ll get these in Sweden, I’ll be in line to buy – love the whole Viva Glam concept, am happy to part with my money for a good cause!
Hope you get it there, Tina!
Against my NC45 skintone this beautiful lippie was aging on me. Which is a shame because its beautiful color….it just doesn’t work for me. I gave both the lipstick and gloss to a co-worker and it looks fab on her.
Sorry to hear it didn’t work on your skin tone, Shelley!
I kinda agree with you, while the lipstick is quite pretty I think it may show “yellow-red” on people in the range of NC/42-50. It’s comes off as a yellow-red(warm) on me.
Really, I’m NC45 with strong yellow undertones….yellow like sickly/Jaundice? Do explain please.
It’s a pretty lipstick, but my favorite picture of the whole set is the closed tube… That velvety red is gorgeous… I’m probably going to cave and buy it just for that.
The packaging is a nice touch!
It’s honestly much more beautiful in person !
Yeah! I was quite pleasantly surprisedy this one Loved it on you christine!:-)
Thanks, Vineetha!
I LOVE LOVE LOVE this shade! I have both the lipstick and the lipglass and it definitely is my favorite Viva Glam shade! They are absolutely stunning!
Does it lean blue or red on you?
Hi
The second part of the review is for the lipglass, right? They’re both tagged as lipstick but the price etc has to be for the gloss?
I was feeling all Mac/Riri-ed out but these look really nice (the gloss especially). Damn lol
Yes, the second one is for the Lipglass!
I kinda want ’em both lol
I’m getting the lipstick for the packaging and cause but the color is just meh. I’m glad it doesn’t look frosty or feel drying because I’m not really a frost fan! It just KILLS me they had to make this red though. After having RiRi Woo shoved in my face literally all last year I’m SO over red lippies!
It was really comfortable to wear!
Looks pretty, but then, it also looks like it has fushia-turning potential, which is my main problem with red lipsticks.
I think it might happen with the Lipglass, but the lipstick runs warmer on me, so I’m not sure.
Thanks again Christine for having a complete review on a waited product ! I just can’t take a decision of buying makeup if I haven’t seen your review on it ! 🙂
I was disappointed to see that it was a red but it seems completely different from the Riri Woo which I have, and the Viva Glam cause is always more forgiving in case of splurge 😉
It’s going to be there for a year so I don’t need to hurry to get my hands on it that’s a good thing 🙂
No problem, Manon!
Looks similar to the 105 Inimitable Rouge Allure.
Thanks for sharing, Tyler!
I really like that lipglass, it reminds me of strawberries. I’m not a huge lipgloss fan, but I think I’ll have to pick that one up.
It’s not quite as thick as the average Lipglass, so hopefully you like it!
You look great with both, but when they’re layered, they look really fantastic on you! I’m so glad Mac went with a colour most people can wear for this VG; much as I support the cause, I didn’t want to buy VG Gaga or Nicki because I found those colours quite difficult to pull off.
Thanks a lot, Alla!
oooh! they both look gorgeous on you!
Thanks, Kellly!
The color is so beautiful! I am a MAC NC45 for point of reference.
Yay!
I just got this and I really like it – it’s an interesting shade. I love a shimmery red (I think it’s the ruby slipper association), and this is a neutral red on me, especially when combined with the lipglass. I usually go for cooler and deeper reds, as warm colors make me look sallow and make my teeth look yellow, but this one didn’t do that. Definitely worth a try.
Happy to hear it’s working well for you, Kristy! Rock it!
I LOVE this lipstick and lipglass. I got RiRi Woo because I liked the way it looked on others and even though I love the intense color and the long wear, I’ve never been a huge fan of the matte finish on myself. I like a glossy/shiny look and much more comfort. But I LOVE Viva Glam Rihanna! I like the frosty finish, I love the bright bold color and I really love the way the lipglass looks layered on top of the lipstick. I also got a red pro longwear pencil from MAC that day (can’t remember the name of it) and this combination will last for hours, I feel.
So glad you’re enjoying your Viva Glam lipstick, Melissa! 🙂
I’m a sucker for red, but I’ll have to check out the rest of my red lipstick collection to see how this compares. The Viva Glam cause is always a great one to support, at least!
It is a great cause!
Ooh, this is a pleasant surprise. Quite a pretty color – though I can assure you from experience that this will definitely pull blue-red, possibly even pinky-red on us cool-toned folk. I’ve got enough reds to last me a lifetime, but I wouldn’t mind adding a frosty one to the collection if it means supporting Viva Glam. 🙂
I’ve heard from several cool-toned readers who have found it pulling warm, too, actually! Seems like it varies a lot!
I just got the lip glass and I’m pretty happy with it! It’s a bit gritty, but it looks like ruby red slippers so I can avoid that flaw! haha
I’m thinking about picking up with lipstick because I think it would be a better duo than just having one or the other!
They work well together!
It looks very nice, in terms of color and quality, but I can tell just by looking that it would be absolutely atrocious on me. 🙁 I’m one of those people who just cannot wear red lipstick.
Aww!
I love them both and I love the cause but I just KNOW that packaging will start peeling in a while. That rubbery matte coating always does!
I have heard this about NARS’ packaging but all of mine are fine!
I’m wearing the lipstick now! I really like this one. I was kind of skeptical about the frosted red at first too but I get all the MAC reds for the most part and I really like this one. I think it would be very wearable for almost any skin tone.
Woohoo!!
Thanks for the reviews and swatches!
I tend to wait to see what you grade an item before purchasing it.
I was very glad when I saw this post and found out the lipstick rating.
I really like the shade of red and it was not too frosty. Plus, I love the packaging.
I am planning on purchasing this item to be part of my Valentine’s Day look.
It will be a great pick for Valentine’s Day!
These look gorgeous on you Christine!
SInce I already have the Riri Woo lipstick; I might pass on getting another red. However, I am getting the lipglass… I am intending to layer it over Riri Woo… let’s hope it’s a good experiment! haha
I think it would be nice over RiRi Woo!
The packaging is absolutely gorgeous !!!!
It is!
Both are outstandingly gorgeous on you dear 🙂
I have to check if they are still avlb 🙂
pretty as always n soooo flawless
Thank you! They will be available for a year, I believe!
I love the lipstick. Of all the Rihanna lipsticks that came out this last year or so, this one is the best. IMO. Temptalia could you possibly swatch it next to Russian Red? I’d like to see the colour comparison.
Russian Red is matte and blue-based – not alike, but you can compare them in the Swatch Gallery if you still want a side-by-side! 🙂
So pretty on you!!! Wouldn’t work on me!!!!
Pfft!
sorry are these perm?
as in permanent haha sorry so vague
Hi Beck!
The status is listed right on the image in each shade’s Glossver rating – there is a large “LE” to indicate Limited Edition!
oh duh im sorry im on my phone
for the internet and its horrible
thank you 🙂
Ohh, bummer! I checked and it shows up on my iPhone. Does it not show up on yours? Do you know what phone + browser you’re using so we can check on that?
Just want to start off by saying i luv luv the packing. I am NW45 in mac and i luv luv luv riri glam lippie and lipglass. I wore mac brick lipliner with the viva glam lippie with the viva glam gloss and it was awesome, i received so many compliments. With that being said i am not a fan of frost lippies, but i luv this one,and the money is going to a great cause.
Happy to hear it’s working well on your skin tone, Maisha!
Well, I don’t like MAC, and I normally don’t like reds. But I like these. And the money’s going to charity, so…I might get one or both. That gloss looks like sparkly strawberry syrup!
Haha! Sparkly strawberry syrup.
loved it on your lips…and the packaging is really cool!!
Thank you, Parmita!
I don’t like either of them on their own. They look really nice together. Okay, that’s sort of a lie. I do like the lipstick on its own, but I feel like something is missing on its own, so the lipglass is needed.
They do work really well together!
I might have to check these out for myself. Both shades look great on you, Christine. 🙂
Thank you, Precious!
This is gorgeous! I haven’t been really interested in her earlier collaborations with MAC, but I really like this. Plus, it’s a great cause!
Viva Glam is one of my favorite charitable causes!
I’m blown away! I think I’ll definitely be getting both of these!
Yay!
The lipstick alone doesn’t look extra ordinary but paired with the gloss, wow!
They work nicely together for sure!
The lipstick and lip gloss looks amazing! Though I like the gloss better. ey compliment each other very well. It’s nice that the lipstick doesn’t look similar to Ririwoo. They compliment each other very well.
I’m so glad they switched it up!
These are prettier than her other lipsticks 😀 Even tho I’m not nuts about shimmer, this kind looks cute 😀
It’s a miracle 😉
I’m thinking in buying it, I’ve seen many swatches, I like the colour in ones but not in others where the lipstick looks too frosty and shimmery. I think it’s not a common frost lipstick like others in the permanent range, it’s like an amplified finish lipstick but with a bit of shimmer, am I wrong? I don’t know what to do! Maybe I’ll have to try it on my lips and convince myself that I need it. Hum!
It’s definitely not as frosty as their typical frosts!
This whole look is stunning on you Christine. Loving the lippies, will have to invest in both I think, particularly love the lipstick, but together… fabulous!
Thank you, Kate!
Not really one for lipglosses but I love the Viva Glam lipglass it may have to be one of my next month purchases.
It might be worth checking out then!
I actually love the colours and finishes of these. I’m sick of Rhianna being plastered on everything, but I do like the look of the products, which ultimately is what matters! Uh oh. I think I just heard my wallet wincing and crying…
Plus, Viva Glam!
Hi Christine, How does this compare to OCC’s Super NSFW? thanks!
Super NSFW is brighter and much warmer!
Hi Christine! Do you know if this collection will be in MAC stores anytime soon? I bought the lipstick based on your recommendation but am waffling a bit on the lipgloss (looks lovely on you! Just not sure if it’s for me). Apologies if you already answered this question.
I think it’s in store now but I never got a full press release!
I’m so happy this got a great review!
Oh how I missed reading your blog Everyday and being *here! I was away on a vacation but glad to be back! <3
Hope you had a fab vacation, Abigail! Missed ya 🙂
Missed you too my darling Christine! 🙂
Thanks for the tip, Christine! I thought I had missed out on the Rihanna lipsticks (and I’m way too afraid of counterfeits to buy them resold online). That red looks so nice that I actually put up with the godawful MAC website long enough to buy one! Cheers
You should be able to snag one this time around as it will be around for awhile!
Wow, I picked mine up at a MAC counter and it looks so much darker/warmer on me. It may be the lighting that you’re using. Your review makes so much sense now because I bought mine the day it launched and everyone at the counter was wearing the lipstick/lipglass combo but I could’ve sworn they were playing a trick on the customers. The combo so looked different on each of the sales associates, granted a few of them blamed it on the liner they had chosen. Either way, it looks great on you!
It seems like a shade that varies a lot!
To be honest my focus were on your earrings..they are really pretty!!! they are similar to your logo if I am not mistaken 🙂
They are designed after the logo! Good eye 🙂
I cannot wait to get my hands on these babies once they are available in our country. I do love what MAC does with their Viva Glam line
Me too! Viva Glam is a fantastic cause.
The packaging of the lipstick is definitely very stunning, I got mine today and I couldn’t get over feeling the tube ,its such a beautiful deep velvet red color. The lipstick is also nice, there is fine shimmer all over and despite owning almost all reds from MAC P range, I couldn’t find any dupe to it. I have all the reasons to keep it plus its packaging is something I can’t let go away. 🙂
Happy to hear you’re loving yours, Neha!
I purchased the lipstick and have already worn it, it applies so smoothly and pigmented and I love the color red with a frost finish. I will be purchasing a backup to always carry in my purse for lipstick emergencies. I’m going to get the lip glass as well even though I’m not a lip gloss girl.
It’s a really well-done set of shades!
This looks a much nice lipstick finish then riri woo does the lipstick bear any reassemble to the lipsticks realsed with the Marilyn Monroe collection that mac did ??
Great review Christine and the colour looks fab on you I think the lipgloss wins in this instance x
I think it is warmer than the ones with MM!
so based on this review; I caved in and bought the lipstick a couple days ago (even though at first I didn’t want to another red lipstick to my collection)… no regrets! It’s gorgeous.
Woohoo! Thrilled to hear you’re loving it. 🙂 Great cause, great color!
Dear Christine, which lipliner would you use with VGRihanna? I do have MUFE Gloss Lab Shine in color S8 could that resemble a little bit the VG Lipglass, especially on top of VGRihanna lipstick?
Cherry if you wanted it to lean bluer, Redd if you wanted it to be a little warmer/neutral! I’m sure the gloss over the lipstick will get you close! 🙂
Hi Christine! I wanted to ask if the Viva Glam Rihanna is a bit similar (in terms of its shade only) with Riri Woo? I understand it’s limited edition and I blame myself for now purchasing more than 1 🙁 I wanted to see if the Viva Glam Rihanna can replace my current go-to lipstick which is Riri Woo.
Thanks!!!
XO,
April
Viva Glam Rihanna is almost warm-toned, and RiRi Woo is more blue-based! I would try Ruby Woo.
Christine,
How would u compare it to Runway Red?
Regards
Runaway Red is darker, less pink! http://www.temptalia.com/submit-dupe?sbs=1&pid=155332&dupe=107556
I love all your swatch posts. Whenever I visit MAC to try new shades, I make sure that I check the swatches you post on my phone and I tried this lipstick in a store here in India yesterday.
The colour does look great, and it lasted on me well for 4-5 stores but I already have many Reds with me (including Ronnie Red, Riri Woo, Chili, Deeply Adored and 014 Dolce Vita from Dior) .
So can you please suggest if this one is like really different and unique from the rest that would tempt me enough to buy it? 🙂
I think this would be interesting to get, because of the shimmer – a lot of what you have is quite matte!
Thanks for the reply! I would surely check it out again in the stores now 🙂
my bad! I meant 4hours* 😛
Hi Christine! Do you think this shade is worth purchasing even if I have Prepare for Pleasure already? 🙂 The packaging looks so pretty!
If it’s a color you wear often, it won’t break the bank for you, it is for a good cause, and it’s a nice formula. But if you’re really trying to avoid duplicates, I would skip!
How long will these be available since rihanna’s viva glam 2 is due by the end of this year?
I believe it was for a year!