NARS 413 BLKR The Multiple ($39.00 for 0.50 oz.) is described as a “rich burgundy.” It’s a reddish-wine with a little rust and berry thrown in for good measure that dries down to a mostly matte finish–there’s a very subtle shimmer that reads matte on the skin. My first thought was that it seemed like a dead-ringer for NARS Seduction, which launched recently, and it’s really quite close; so it’s a matter of whether you prefer powder or cream-to-powder. NARS Dolce Vita is much pinker. MAC Hidden Treasure is warmer, more orange. NARS G-Spot has more shimmer and is a softer, slightly rosier color. NARS Grenadines (an eyeshadow) is also similar but very matte, slightly muted.

Now, The Multiple and I don’t get along as well as you’d expect, and the reality is that as a multi-tasking product, The Multiples are disappointing. Trying to use one on the lips is like signing yourself up for a one-way trip to chapped, cracked, and peeling lips that look as awful as they feel. Turning them a reddish color only serves to make lips look almost bloody and torn. It was not a flattering look at all.

Multiples can also be used on eyes and cheeks, though if you have sensitivities to red dyes, you may want to avoid using this on the eyes. When I used it on the eye area, there was some noticeable creasing after six hours. The best application of The Multiple tends to be on the cheeks, and 413 BLKR is no exception. It’s an incredibly pigmented product, and two little dabs will give plenty of color for most complexions. The product applies best when warmed up, so fingertips tend to be helpful in spreading and blending out the product. I like using a brush to apply and spread but then use fingertips to soften the edges. Once applied, I saw good wear for seven and a half hours, and then after nine hours, there was noticeable fading.

NARS 413 BLKR The Multiple

NARS 413 BLKR The Multiple

NARS 413 BLKR The Multiple

NARS 413 BLKR The Multiple

NARS 413 BLKR The Multiple

NARS 413 BLKR The Multiple

NARS 413 BLKR The Multiple

NARS 413 BLKR The Multiple