NARS x Guy Bourdin Color & Gifting Collection Photos, Swatches + Commentary
NARS x Guy Bourdin Color Collection
Update: I have added photos, swatches, and dupes for the products from the NARS x Guy Bourdin Gifting Collection. The majority of the shades included in the Gifting collection are permanent to NARS’ color range. To ensure context, I’ve added them to the existing post, rather than make a separate post. My goal is to raise awareness, open the channel for discussion (I highly recommend reading through readers’ comments and viewpoints), and to respect each reader’s autonomy and decision-making. I strongly believe that we each must do our own research and come to the conclusion that feels right to us, whatever that may be. Thank you for your continued support, respect, and understanding!
When the NARS x Guy Bourdin collaboration was first announced, I felt my readers’ excitement. I knew nothing about Bourdin, and having little interest in fashion photography, I didn’t look to learn any more than what was being widely reported. I’m here for the makeup, not the collaborators or inspiration or names, so when I see a new collection, I want to know what’s in it, what the colors are going to be, what the formulas and textures will feel like. It was not until I saw more and more readers comment on Bourdin and his emphasis on violence in his work, particularly of what seems to be best categorized as “high fashion crime scenes,” that I knew I needed to look a little further than the press release.
Warning: This post contains discussion about violence against women, so please be warned that the discussion that follows and comments on the post may be a potentially triggering.
Bourdin’s body of work is not solely centered around violence as he also explored other themes like surrealism and sexuality. There are shots of vibrant, thriving women in his work; it is not all dark but certainly a good deal of his work is, and more to the point, many of his more controversial shots are more famous (which is not a surprise). I suggest visiting his website and browsing through his portfolio of photos–beware that some are more graphic than others–and in particular, the “Beauty” section showcases a different side of his work. There is no question that Bourdin was an artist, and he is legendary in his sphere.
I fully respect NARS’ decision to collaborate with someone who has influenced Francois Nars not just today but for years; that Bourdin was his inspiration for becoming a makeup artist is just how telling of the type and scope of impact Bourdin had on the industry as a whole. I don’t just see in black and white, which is not always a comforting thing, and I enjoy challenging people’s opinions and playing devil’s advocate. It has always been important to me to avoid mixing my personal beliefs (on such hot topics as sex, politics, religion, etc.) with the blog, because Temptalia is not just your escape but mine. This is the first time where how I feel has put me in such a quandary as to how to react. First and foremost, I am abstaining from reviewing the NARS and Guy Bourdin collection, because I cannot fully dissociate how I feel about Bourdin’s art from a collection intended to pay tribute to him.
The idea that an advertisement or runway photoshoot that features dead women in designer clothing and shoes is used to sell to people is hard for me to wrap my head around. I am particularly sensitive to the concept of glamorizing violence, against women or men, because I worry it normalizes it in a way that makes us react less to a very real and prevalent issue not just in the U.S. but globally. Bourdin has passed away for some time now, so all of the visuals that showcase Bourdin’s work are images he previously shot, so none of them were originally intended to sell NARS’ makeup specifically (or possibly makeup at all, but you’d have to really go back through and figure out where each photo originated from). Many of the selected images for the NARS collaboration are not controversial or violent but some are certainly up for interpretation.
There’s an informative interview with Susan B. Carbon, Director of the U.S. DOJ’s Office, Violence Against Women, which also includes sobering statistics about the level of violence women experience (with sources cited). It speaks on and illuminates as to why violence against women is a real issue that we should be talking about, understanding, researching, and creating the resources, community, and culture that both prevents and reduces the violence that occurs (and we can do more than just prevent/reduce violence against women but all people). We, as a society, have made strides towards these goals, but we can do more and we should do more–and we need to remember to think globally on behalf of all women.
Here are some resources for learning more about this issue:
- RAINN.org (particularly helpful if you have experienced sexual violence to get support/resources)
- World Health Organization
- United Nations (it’s a global problem)
- National Organization for Women
- The Hotline (helpful for those who have experienced domestic violence and need support or talk; thanks A Mar for the link)
I have spent the past week and a half soul-searching and doing as much as I can to learn more about Bourdin, not just from those that feel similarly to me, but those who have assessed his work from an artistic point of view, to determine if I was still going to post photos/swatches. My focus was on his work, not him as a person. We all want to be taken as the sum of our parts, not merely one part out of many, which is why I really wanted to take time to assess, digest, and react. I found this essay about the evolution of the “crime scene photograph” into news, fashion, and art a very good read. I understand that not everyone who views Bourdin’s work feels he glamorized violence against women or even if taken as true, is able to find other qualities of his work (lighting, colors, angles, composition, etc.) admirable as an artist or perhaps argue it is a statement on our own curiosity for the morbid or even the fashion industry and its consumptive nature. I have read various reactions, arguments for and against, from both outside sources as well as from readers in our community.
To that end, I respect each reader’s opinion, whether for or against. So in a show of respect for a broad range of opinions, while I will not review or otherwise recommend the collection personally, you will find full photos and swatches of the products featured in the color collection for those who wanted to see them, and for those who did not want to purchase, I have included dupes for each shade that you may want to consider purchasing from instead. From me to you, I wanted to use this time to also say, “Let’s not forget about what we can do to reduce violence against women.” In our consumption of controversial images, let’s not forget about the very real issues that real people face that the art seeks to recreate or transform.
I hope that you understand my decisions and know that they come from the heart after a lot of reflection, research, and reading. I urge you to do your own research and come to your own conclusions. All I want is us to ask questions and challenge what we’re seeing and being told (or sold) and go from there.
Update: Thank you SO, SO much from the bottom of my heart for the outpouring of support & understanding! I am still reading through and responding to the incredible stories and comments that you have all left on this post, but I wanted to make sure everyone knows how meaningful your feedback and response has been! Thank you!
See dupes, photos & swatches!
NARS Bad Behaviour Eyeshadow is a medium-dark, cool-toned charcoal gray with a frost finish. Chanel Fascination #3 (P) is less frosted. Urban Decay Redemption (LE, $18.00) is less shimmery. MAC Deep Cravings (LE, $15.00) is darker. LORAC Slate (P) is cooler-toned. MAC Diesel (LE, $15.00) is similar. Urban Decay Asphalt (LE, $18.00) is similar. Urban Decay Ace (LE, $18.00) is cooler-toned. Giorgio Armani #21 (LE, $33.00) is similar. See comparison swatches.
NARS Cambodia Eyeshadow is a warm-toned, copper-red with a frost finish. Sleek MakeUP Sunset #3 (P, $9.99) is warmer. Disney by Sephora Trust Me (LE) is more muted. NARS California (P, $24.00) is browner. MAC Magnetic Attraction (LE, $21.00) is similar. MAC Red Hot Copper (LE) is a cream product. MAC Coppering (P, $15.00) is very similar. MAC Spicy Smoke (LE, $32.50) is similar. Le Metier de Beaute Innocence (DC, $30.00) is similar. See comparison swatches.
NARS Mississippi Mermaid Eyeshadow is a pale, golden beige with a frosted finish. Chanel Seduction #2 (LE) is similar. MAC Smoked Cocoa #1 (P, $15.00) is lighter. LORAC Nude (P) is similar. theBalm Promiscuous Pearl (LE, $16.00) is less frosted. Illamasqua Slink (LE) is similar. Dior Fairy Golds #1 (LE) is less frosted. Chanel Eclosion #2 (P) is similar. See comparison swatches.
NARS Rage Eyeshadow is a medium magenta purple with cool pink undertones and an iridescent sheen. Kat Von D Babe (LE) is cooler-toned. MAC Violet Impact (LE, $15.00) is similar. NYX Violetta (P, $4.50) is less iridescent. MAC Power Boosted (LE, $15.00) is similar. Urban Decay Infamous (P, $18.00) is darker. Urban Decay Fishnet (P, $18.00) is less frosted. MAC Stars ‘n Rockets (P, $15.00) is the same. MAC Femininity (LE, $32.50) is similar. bareMinerals Boudoir (P) is less frosted. See comparison swatches.
NARS Wishful Thinking Eyeshadow is a medium-dark blue with cool undertones and a pearly finish. CoverGirl Sapphire Flare (315) (LE, $4.99) is brighter. Urban Decay Radium (P, $18.00) is a smidgen darker. MAC Love Cycle #1 (LE, $21.00) is darker. MAC Pure Creation (LE, $18.00) is a cream product. MAC Freshwater (P, $15.00) is brighter. See comparison swatches.
NARS Full Frontal Lipstick is a subdued, magenta pink with cool, blue-based undertones and a luminous finish. Maybelline Electric Fuchsia (LE, $7.49) is brighter. NYX Pink Lyric (P, $4.00) is less cool-toned. MAC Dear Diary (LE, $18.00) is brighter. MAC Night Blooming (LE, $16.00) is a touch brighter. MAC Outrageously Fun (LE, $15.00) is similar. MAC Daddy’s Little Girl (LE, $15.00) is a smidgen brighter. Maybelline Brazen Berry (P, $7.49) is just a tiny bit darker. Buxom Swinger (P, $21.00) is a touch brighter. See comparison swatches.
NARS Future Red Lipstick is a brightened, medium-dark red with warm, orange undertones and a luminous finish. Maybelline Infra-red (LE, $7.49) is very similar. MAC Must Be Red (LE, $15.00) is darker. Guerlain Genna (LE, $49.50) is similar. Hourglass Raven (P, $28.00) is matte. See comparison swatches.
NARS Goodbye Emmanuelle Lipstick is a light-medium pink with cool, blue undertones and a luminous finish. MAC Steady Going (LE, $15.00) is matte. MAC Playtime (LE, $16.00) is very similar. Maybelline Pink Pop (P, $7.49) is lighter. MAC Naughty Saute (LE, $15.00) is bluer-based. See comparison swatches.
NARS Last Tango Lipstick is a rosy, beige-brown with a luminous finish. Givenchy Rose d’Exception (206) (LE, $36.00) is very similar. Urban Decay Rush (P, $22.00) is browner. Urban Decay Strip (P, $22.00) is pinker. MAC Offshoot (LE, $15.00) is darker. MAC I Love Winter (LE, $15.00) is cooler-toned. Giorgio Armani #526 (P, $32.00) is darker. See comparison swatches.
NARS Short Circuit Lipstick is a brightened, medium-dark orange with warm undertones and a luminous finish. Dior Trafalgar (844) (P, $34.00) is very similar. Giorgio Armani #300 (P, $32.00) is lighter. Urban Decay Bang (P, $22.00) is similar. Maybelline Orange Edge (LE, $7.49) is very close. MAC Morange (P, $15.00) is lighter, more matte. See comparison swatches.
NARS Coeur Battant Blush is a bright, medium-dark magenta pink with cool, blue undertones and a mostly matte finish. Tom Ford Beauty Narcissist (LE, $55.00) is less cool-toned. NARS Desire (P, $29.00) is lighter. MAC Florida (LE, $21.00) is bluer-based, cream. See comparison swatches.
NARS Day Dream Blush is a light-medium, pink-coral with gold shimmer and a satin finish. Too Faced Melt Into Spring (LE) is matte. Bobbi Brown Pink Coral (LE, $26.00) is brighter. NARS Soulshine (Together) (LE, $29.00) is darker. Physicians Formula Warm (P, $11.99) is similar. theBalm Frat Boy (P, $21.00) is darker. NARS Orgasm (P, $29.00) is more shimmery. NARS Deep Throat (P, $29.00) is similar. MAC Supercontinental (LE, $21.00) is warmer. MAC Flaming Chic (LE, $25.00) is similar. Chanel Fleur de Lotus (LE, $43.00) is a touch lighter. See comparison swatches.
NARS Exhibit A Blush is part of the permanent range, and I have reviewed it in full here.
NARS Follow Me Nail Polish is a cool-toned, berry-rose with a cream-jelly finish. MAC Toco Toucan (LE, $16.00) is cooler-toned. MAC Girl About Town (LE, $16.00) is pinker. L’Oreal Members Only (P) is also pinker. Dior Pasteque (LE, $24.00) is warmer. See comparison swatches.
NARS No Limits Nail Polish is a brightened, fuchsia magenta with a cream-jelly finish. NARS Ratin Jot (LE, $19.00) is very similar. Illamasqua Stance (P, $17.00) is brighter, purpler. Illamasqua Obsess (P, $17.00) is brighter, purpler. See comparison swatches.
NARS Tomorrow’s Red Nail Polish is a brightened, orange-red with a cream finish. Chanel Cinema (P, $27.00) is darker. MAC Touch of Red (LE, $16.00) is bluer-based. Guerlain Champs-Elysees (P, $23.00) is pinker. Cult Nails Evil Queen (P, $12.00) is similar. Zoya Sooki (P, $8.00) is a touch darker. Essie Too Too Hot (LE, $8.00) is similar. Butter London Pillar Box Red (P, $15.00) is darker, cooler-toned. See comparison swatches.
NARS Union Libre Nail Polish is a light-medium pink with cool, blue undertones and a cream-jelly finish. Essie Cascade Cool (LE, $8.00) is lighter. MAC Pink Nouveau (LE, $16.00) is similar. Zoya Shelby (P, $8.00) is lighter. Essie Off the Shoulder (LE, $8.00) is very similar. See comparison swatches.
Splendor in the Grass Blush Palette ($49.00 for 0.37 oz.)
Sex Appeal is a pale, slightly pink-tinged peach with a matte finish. It is part of the permanent range. bareMinerals The Adrenaline Rush (LE, $29.00) is darker. MAC Stay By Me (P, $23.50) is pinker. MAC Cream Soda (LE, $21.00) is darker. MAC Amber Glow (LE, $25.00) is more shimmery. See comparison swatches.
Albatross is an iridescent white gold with a frosted finish. It is part of the permanent range. Kevyn Aucoin Candlelight (P, $44.00) is lighter, less yellow. Becca Moonstone (P, $38.00) is less golden. See comparison swatches.
Angelika is a cool-toned, blue-based light-medium pink with silver sparkle. It is part of the permanent range. Too Faced Lollipop (LE) is similar. Too Faced Raindrops on Roses (LE) is less cool-toned. Urban Decay Temper (LE) is similar. Urban Decay Quickie (LE) is less sparkly. MAC Pure Femininity (LE, $21.00) is lighter. theBalm Argyle (P, $22.00) is matte. Edward Bess Bed of Roses (P, $43.00) is matte. MAC Divine Desire (LE, $21.00) is shimmery. Chanel Pink Explosion (LE, $43.00) is more matte. See comparison swatches.
Dolce Vita is a dusty, medium-dark rose with subtle warm undertones and a mostly matte finish. It is part of the permanent range. Urban Decay Fetish (LE) is lighter. NARS Realm of the Senses #2 (LE, $29.00) is shimmery. MAC Sweet Samba (LE, $25.00) is shimmery. NARS Seduction (P, $29.00) is darker, warmer NARS Oasis (P, $29.00) is shimmery. NARS Lovejoy (P, $29.00) is warmer. Illamasqua Allure (P, $26.00) is warmer. See comparison swatches.
Cosmetic Pochette ($75.00)
It is a medium-sized, slim makeup bag that seems to be made out of leather (smelled like it). It was made in Italy. It has a gold zipper with “NARS” printed on the zipper embellishment. The interior is gold cloth with NARS print.
Fling Lip Set ($49.00 for 0.38 oz.)
Dolce Vita (Velvet Matte Lip Pencil) is a warm rose with a matte finish. This is part of the permanent range. Chanel Etonnante (131) (P, $34.00) is more frosted. Laura Mercier Cozy (P, $24.00) is darker. MAC Runway Hit (LE, $15.00) is lighter. Urban Decay Liar (P, $22.00) is less matte. Urban Decay Protest (P, $22.00) MAC Lady at Play (P, $22.00) is darker, less matte. See comparison swatches.
Baroque (Velvet Gloss Lip Pencil) is a rosy plum with subtle cool undertones and a soft sparkle. This is part of the permanent range. Chanel Merveille (P, $32.00) is darker. Bobbi Brown Aubergine (P, $24.00) is less red. Marc Jacobs Beauty Studded Kiss (310) (P, $28.00) is pinker. See comparison swatches.
Damage (Lipstick) is a muted plum with neutral to cool undertones and a glossy finish. This is part of the permanent range. Urban Decay Strip (P, $22.00) is browner. MAC I Love Winter (LE, $15.00) is lighter. Chanel Fetiche (P, $34.00) is similar. See comparison swatches.
Roman Holiday (Lipstick) is a cool-toned, blue-based, light-medium pink with a glossy finish. This is part of the permanent range. Too Faced Razzle Dazzle Rose (P, $21.00) is darker. Urban Decay Obsessed (P, $22.00) is similar. NYX Paparazzi (P, $4.00) is warmer. MAC Naughty Saute (LE, $15.00) is cooler-toned. See comparison swatches.
Crime of Passion Set ($59.00 for 0.64 oz.)
Deep Throat (Larger Than Life Lipgloss) is a light-medium peach with a hint of pink and gold shimmer. Chanel Zephyr (377) (LE, $29.50) is lighter. MAC Summer Sweetheart (LE, $15.00) is lighter. MAC Dynasty at Dusk (LE, $20.00) is similar. MAC Double Happiness (LE, $20.00) is similar. See comparison swatches.
Jezebel (Eyeshadow) is a golden, peachy-beige with a frosted finish. Too Faced Cheers! (LE) is warmer. Kat Von D Precious (LE) is similar. Disney by Sephora Splendid (LE) is similar. Disney by Sephora Scuttle (LE) is also similar. MAC Fusion Gold (LE) is a cream product. Illamasqua Slink (LE) is lighter. Inglot #397 (P, $6.00) See comparison swatches.
Naiade (Eyeshadow) is a medium-dark brown with warm, orange undertones and a satin-matte finish. theBalm C4 (LE, $16.00) is lighter. MAC Exposed (LE, $15.00) is similar. Guerlain Turandot #2 (LE) is warmer. See comparison swatches.
Pandora (Eyeshadow) is a matte black. It is part of the permanent range. There are tons of matte black eyeshadows out there — see comparison swatches.
Deep Throat (Blush) is a warm coral with a hint of pink and a golden shimmer-sheen. It’s part of the permanent range. NARS Day Dream (LE, $29.00) is similar. Physicians Formula Natural (P, $11.99) is lighter. NARS Soulshine #1 (LE, $29.00) is pinker. NARS Realm of the Senses (Together) (LE, $29.00) is brighter. NARS Realm of the Senses #1 (LE, $29.00) is similar. Physicians Formula Warm (P, $11.99) is pinker. MAC Simmer (LE, $25.00) is richer. MAC Fleet Fast (LE, $21.00) is warmer, less pink. MAC Star Wonder (LE, $23.50) is pinker. Chanel Fleur de Lotus (LE, $43.00) is warmer. See comparison swatches.
Laguna (Bronzing Powder) is a medium brown with yellow-ish undertones and a golden shimmer. It is part of the permanent range. Too Faced Chocolate Soleil (P) is similar. Wet ‘n’ Wild Bikini Contest (P, $3.99) is similar. Urban Decay Toasted (P, $26.00) is darker. MAC Gold Go Lightly (LE, $28.00) is yellower. MAC Lush Light Bronze (LE, $28.00) is similar. MAC Sun Dipped (LE, $30.00) is more neutral. MAC Golden (LE, $25.00) is similar. See comparison swatches.
Voyeur Larger Than Life Long-Wear Eyeliner Set ($49.00 for 0.05 oz.)
Via Appia is a warm-toned, bronze brown. It’s part of the permanent range. Bobbi Brown Bronze (LE, $24.00) is similar. Urban Decay Whiskey (P, $19.00) is matte. Urban Decay Roach (P, $19.00) is warmer. MAC Brown Border (P, $16.00) is less shimmery. MAC Seasonally Spicy (LE, $16.00) is darker. See comparison swatches.
Santa Monica Blvd. is a matte white. It’s part of the permanent range. MAC Fascinating (P, $16.00) is the same. See comparison swatches.
Blue Dahlia is a medium-dark, cool-toned purple with a mostly matte finish. Buxom Door’s Unlocked (P, $17.00) is shimmery. Urban Decay Ransom (LE, $19.00) is also shimmery. NARS St. Marks Place (P, $24.00) is cooler-toned. See comparison swatches.
Most Wanted is a cool-toned, blue with a periwinkle coloring and a matte finish. Sephora Collection My Boyfriend’s Jeans (P, $9.00) is shimmery. Urban Decay Chaos (P, $19.00) is similar. See comparison swatches.
Via Veneto is a matte black. It’s part of the permanent range. Plenty of matte black eyeliners on the market — see comparison swatches.
Beautiful Stranger Nail Polish Set ($35.00 for 1.00 fl. oz.)
Manosque is a purpled taupe with a cream finish. MAC Festive Finery (LE, $16.00) is purpler. China Glaze Jungle Queen (LE, $8.00) is darker. China Glaze Below Deck (LE, $8.00) is similar. Zoya Petra (P, $8.00) is purpler. Zoya Jana (P, $8.00) is very similar. See comparison swatches.
Shameless Red is a coral-red with a cream finish. NARS Follow Me (LE, $19.00) is darker. Obsessive Compulsive Cosmetics Extravaganza (P, $10.00) is shimmery. L’Oreal The Queen’s Might (LE) is darker, redder. Chanel Fracas (LE, $27.00) is similar. China Glaze Pink Plumeria (LE, $8.00) is lighter. See comparison swatches.
Dance Dance Dance is a medium-dark purple with cool, magenta undertones and a cream finish. Illamasqua Faux Pas (LE, $17.00) is cooler-toned. Rescue Beauty Lounge Purple Haze (LE, $20.00) is lighter. China Glaze Creative Fantasy (LE, $8.00) is brighter. Zoya Mira (P, $8.00) is similar. See comparison swatches.
Lost Red is a cool-toned, blue-based, medium red with a cream finish. MAC RiRi Woo (LE, $16.00) is similar. MAC Russian Red (LE, $16.00) is darker. MAC Flaming Rose (P, $16.00) is similar. Chanel Suspicious (P, $27.00) is pinker. See comparison swatches.
One Night Stand Blush Palette ($65.00 for 0.84 oz.)
Devotee is a pale, pink-tinged beige with a frosted finish. Urban Decay Naked (P, $29.00) is similar. Kevyn Aucoin Candlelight (P, $44.00) is warmer. NARS Debbie Harry Highlighter (LE, $29.00) is cooler-toned. See comparison swatches.
Mistinguette is a cool-toned, blue-based, light pink with a matte finish. NARS Gaiety (P, $29.00) is darker. MAC Unconventional (LE, $21.00) is lighter. MAC Well Dressed (P, $21.00) is similar. Illamasqua Morale (P, $26.00) is darker, more shimmery. Bobbi Brown Nude Pink (P, $26.00) is less blue-based, darker. See comparison swatches.
Orgasm is a pinky-coral with a golden shimmer-sheen. It is part of the permanent range. Too Faced Peachy Keen (LE) is similar. Tom Ford Beauty Love Lust (P, $55.00) is warmer. Guerlain Blush G (LE, $65.00) is similar. Milani Dolce Pink (P, $7.99) is pinker. See comparison swatches.
Laguna is a medium brown with yellow-ish undertones and a golden shimmer. It is part of the permanent range. Too Faced Chocolate Soleil (P) is similar. Wet ‘n’ Wild Bikini Contest (P, $3.99) is similar. Urban Decay Toasted (P, $26.00) is darker. MAC Gold Go Lightly (LE, $28.00) is yellower. MAC Lush Light Bronze (LE, $28.00) is similar. MAC Sun Dipped (LE, $30.00) is more neutral. MAC Golden (LE, $25.00) is similar. See comparison swatches.
Deep Throat is a warm coral with a hint of pink and a golden shimmer-sheen. It’s part of the permanent range. NARS Day Dream (LE, $29.00) is similar. Physicians Formula Natural (P, $11.99) is lighter. NARS Soulshine #1 (LE, $29.00) is pinker. NARS Realm of the Senses (Together) (LE, $29.00) is brighter. NARS Realm of the Senses #1 (LE, $29.00) is similar. Physicians Formula Warm (P, $11.99) is pinker. MAC Simmer (LE, $25.00) is richer. MAC Fleet Fast (LE, $21.00) is warmer, less pink. MAC Star Wonder (LE, $23.50) is pinker. Chanel Fleur de Lotus (LE, $43.00) is warmer. See comparison swatches.
Goulue is a cool-toned, berry pink with a golden sheen. Kevyn Aucoin Neolita (P, $37.00) is richer. Bobbi Brown Berry (LE, $26.00) is darker. theBalm Pinstripe (P, $22.00) is cooler-toned. NYX Apricot (P, $15.00) is similar. NARS Oasis (P, $29.00) is warmer. NARS Outlaw (P, $29.00) is similar. NARS Dolce Vita (P, $29.00) is less shimmery. See comparison swatches.
Promiscuous Lip Set ($45.00 for 0.32 oz.)
Cruella is a cool-toned, medium-dark red with a matte finish. It is part of the permanent range. Chanel La Precieuse (317) (LE, $32.00) is lighter. MAC Glam (DC, $15.00) is pinker. MAC Russian Red (P, $15.00) is similar. MAC Ronnie Red (LE, $15.00) is similar. MAC Charmed, I’m Sure (LE, $15.00) is similar. See comparison swatches.
Dolce Vita is a warm rose with a matte finish. It is part of the permanent range. Chanel Etonnante (131) (P, $34.00) is more frosted. Laura Mercier Cozy (P, $24.00) is darker. MAC Runway Hit (LE, $15.00) is lighter. Urban Decay Liar (P, $22.00) is less matte. Urban Decay Protest (P, $22.00) MAC Lady at Play (P, $22.00) is darker, less matte. See comparison swatches.
Never Say Never is a pinky-berry with a matte finish and cool, blue undertones. It is part of the permanent range. Make Up For Ever #12 (P, $19.00) is slightly frosted. See comparison swatches.
New Lover is a warm-toned, pink-coral with golden copper shimmer. It is part of the permanent range. Chanel Reflexion (71) (P, $32.00) is similar. Burberry Cameo Pink (P, $27.00) is similar. See comparison swatches.
Sex Machine is a light-medium pink with neutral-to-warm undertones and a matte finish. Flower Beauty Petal Kiss (P, $6.98) is warmer. MAC Mehr (P, $15.00) is pinker. Burberry Peony Rose (302) (P, $30.00) is warmer. Make Up For Ever #4 (P, $19.00) is darker. See comparison swatches.
NARS Bad Behaviour Eyeshadow
NARS Bad Behaviour Eyeshadow
NARS Bad Behaviour Eyeshadow
NARS Cambodia Eyeshadow
NARS Cambodia Eyeshadow
NARS Cambodia Eyeshadow
NARS Mississippi Mermaid Eyeshadow
NARS Mississippi Mermaid Eyeshadow
NARS Mississippi Mermaid Eyeshadow
NARS Rage Eyeshadow
NARS Rage Eyeshadow
NARS Rage Eyeshadow
NARS Wishful Thinking Eyeshadow
NARS Wishful Thinking Eyeshadow
NARS Wishful Thinking Eyeshadow
NARS Full Frontal Lipstick
NARS Full Frontal Lipstick
NARS Full Frontal Lipstick
NARS Full Frontal Lipstick
NARS Full Frontal Lipstick
NARS Full Frontal Lipstick
NARS Future Red Lipstick
NARS Future Red Lipstick
NARS Future Red Lipstick
NARS Future Red Lipstick
NARS Future Red Lipstick
NARS Future Red Lipstick
NARS Goodbye Emmanuelle Lipstick
NARS Goodbye Emmanuelle Lipstick
NARS Goodbye Emmanuelle Lipstick
NARS Goodbye Emmanuelle Lipstick
NARS Goodbye Emmanuelle Lipstick
NARS Goodbye Emmanuelle Lipstick
NARS Last Tango Lipstick
NARS Last Tango Lipstick
NARS Last Tango Lipstick
NARS Last Tango Lipstick
NARS Last Tango Lipstick
NARS Last Tango Lipstick
NARS Short Circuit Lipstick
NARS Short Circuit Lipstick
NARS Short Circuit Lipstick
NARS Short Circuit Lipstick
NARS Short Circuit Lipstick
NARS Short Circuit Lipstick
NARS Coeur Battant Blush
NARS Coeur Battant Blush
NARS Coeur Battant Blush
NARS Coeur Battant Blush
NARS Day Dream Blush
NARS Day Dream Blush
NARS Day Dream Blush
NARS Day Dream Blush
NARS Exhibit A Blush
NARS Exhibit A Blush
NARS Exhibit A Blush
NARS Exhibit A Blush
NARS Follow Me Nail Polish
NARS Follow Me Nail Polish
NARS Follow Me Nail Polish
NARS Follow Me Nail Polish
NARS Follow Me Nail Polish
NARS No Limits Nail Polish
NARS No Limits Nail Polish
NARS No Limits Nail Polish
NARS No Limits Nail Polish
NARS No Limits Nail Polish
NARS Tomorrow’s Red Nail Polish
NARS Tomorrow’s Red Nail Polish
NARS Tomorrow’s Red Nail Polish
NARS Tomorrow’s Red Nail Polish
NARS Tomorrow’s Red Nail Polish
NARS Union Libre Nail Polish
NARS Union Libre Nail Polish
NARS Union Libre Nail Polish
NARS Union Libre Nail Polish
NARS Union Libre Nail Polish
NARS Splendor in the Grass Palette
NARS Splendor in the Grass Palette
NARS Splendor in the Grass Palette
NARS Sex Appeal Blush
NARS Sex Appeal Blush
NARS Albatross Highlighting Blush
NARS Albatross Highlighting Blush
NARS Angelika Blush
NARS Angelika Blush
NARS Dolce Vita Blush
NARS Dolce Vita Blush
NARS x Guy Bourdin Cosmetic Pochette
NARS x Guy Bourdin Cosmetic Pochette
NARS x Guy Bourdin Cosmetic Pochette
NARS x Guy Bourdin Cosmetic Pochette
NARS x Guy Bourdin Cosmetic Pochette
NARS x Guy Bourdin Cosmetic Pochette
NARS Fling Lip Set
NARS Fling Lip Set
NARS Dolce Vita Velvet Matte Lip Pencil
NARS Dolce Vita Velvet Matte Lip Pencil
NARS Dolce Vita Velvet Matte Lip Pencil
NARS Dolce Vita Velvet Matte Lip Pencil
NARS Dolce Vita Velvet Matte Lip Pencil
NARS Baroque Velvet Gloss Lip Pencil
NARS Baroque Velvet Gloss Lip Pencil
NARS Baroque Velvet Gloss Lip Pencil
NARS Baroque Velvet Gloss Lip Pencil
NARS Baroque Velvet Gloss Lip Pencil
NARS Damage Lipstick
NARS Damage Lipstick
NARS Damage Lipstick
NARS Damage Lipstick
NARS Damage Lipstick
NARS Roman Holiday Lipstick
NARS Roman Holiday Lipstick
NARS Roman Holiday Lipstick
NARS Roman Holiday Lipstick
NARS Roman Holiday Lipstick
NARS Crime of Passion Palette
NARS Crime of Passion Palette
NARS Crime of Passion Palette
NARS Crime of Passion Palette
NARS Deep Throat Larger Than Life Lipgloss
NARS Deep Throat Larger Than Life Lipgloss
NARS Deep Throat Larger Than Life Lipgloss
NARS Deep Throat Larger Than Life Lipgloss
NARS Deep Throat Larger Than Life Lipgloss
NARS Jezebel Eyeshadow
NARS Jezebel Eyeshadow
NARS Naiade Eyeshadow
NARS Naiade Eyeshadow
NARS Pandora Eyeshadow
NARS Pandora Eyeshadow
NARS Deep Throat Blush
NARS Deep Throat Blush
NARS Laguna Bronzing Powder
NARS Laguna Bronzing Powder
NARS Voyeur Larger Than Life Eyeliner Set
NARS Voyeur Larger Than Life Eyeliner Set
NARS Via Appia Larger Than Life Eyeliner
NARS Via Appia Larger Than Life Eyeliner
NARS Santa Monica Blvd. Larger Than Life Eyeliner
NARS Santa Monica Blvd. Larger Than Life Eyeliner
NARS Blue Dahlia Larger Than Life Eyeliner
NARS Blue Dahlia Larger Than Life Eyeliner
NARS Most Wanted Larger Than Life Eyeliner
NARS Most Wanted Larger Than Life Eyeliner
NARS Via Veneto Larger Than Life Eyeliner
NARS Via Veneto Larger Than Life Eyeliner
NARS Beautiful Stranger Nail Polish Set
NARS Manosque Nail Polish
NARS Manosque Nail Polish
NARS Manosque Nail Polish
NARS Manosque Nail Polish
NARS Shameless Red Nail Polish
NARS Shameless Red Nail Polish
NARS Shameless Red Nail Polish
NARS Shameless Red Nail Polish
NARS Dance Dance Dance Nail Polish
NARS Dance Dance Dance Nail Polish
NARS Dance Dance Dance Nail Polish
NARS Dance Dance Dance Nail Polish
NARS Lost Red Nail Polish
NARS Lost Red Nail Polish
NARS Lost Red Nail Polish
NARS Lost Red Nail Polish
NARS One Night Stand Palette
NARS One Night Stand Palette
NARS Devotee Highlighting Blush
NARS Devotee Highlighting Blush
NARS Devotee Highlighting Blush
NARS Mistinguette Blush
NARS Mistinguette Blush
NARS Mistinguette Blush
NARS Orgasm Blush
NARS Orgasm Blush
NARS Orgasm Blush
NARS Laguna Bronzing Powder
NARS Laguna Bronzing Powder
NARS Laguna Bronzing Powder
NARS Deep Throat Blush
NARS Deep Throat Blush
NARS Deep Throat Blush
NARS Goulue Blush
NARS Goulue Blush
NARS Goulue Blush
NARS Promiscuous Set
NARS Promiscuous Set
NARS Cruella Velvet Matte Lip Pencil
NARS Cruella Velvet Matte Lip Pencil
NARS Cruella Velvet Matte Lip Pencil
NARS Cruella Velvet Matte Lip Pencil
NARS Cruella Velvet Matte Lip Pencil
NARS Dolce Vita Velvet Matte Lip Pencil
NARS Dolce Vita Velvet Matte Lip Pencil
NARS Dolce Vita Velvet Matte Lip Pencil
NARS Dolce Vita Velvet Matte Lip Pencil
NARS Dolce Vita Velvet Matte Lip Pencil
NARS Never Say Never Velvet Matte Lip Pencil
NARS Never Say Never Velvet Matte Lip Pencil
NARS Never Say Never Velvet Matte Lip Pencil
NARS Never Say Never Velvet Matte Lip Pencil
NARS Never Say Never Velvet Matte Lip Pencil
NARS New Lover Velvet Gloss Lip Pencil
NARS New Lover Velvet Gloss Lip Pencil
NARS New Lover Velvet Gloss Lip Pencil
NARS New Lover Velvet Gloss Lip Pencil
NARS New Lover Velvet Gloss Lip Pencil
NARS Biscayne Park Satin Lip Pencil
NARS Sex Machine Velvet Matte Lip Pencil
NARS Sex Machine Velvet Matte Lip Pencil
NARS Sex Machine Velvet Matte Lip Pencil
NARS Sex Machine Velvet Matte Lip Pencil
NARS Sex Machine Velvet Matte Lip Pencil
Hi, I really respect your stance on this issue and for your professionalism in providing all the details and swatches. I love Nars makeup but don’t condone violence of any sort.
I’m disappointed that Nars chose to associate themselves with an individual that used dead females to sell clothing. I don’t care how “haute couture” the clothing is/was and how famous he was. I won’t be buying anything from this collection. Too bad.
Thank you for your understanding!
I agree! It’s a shame NARS pulled this crap, because I would have bought several items from this collection had it not been a Guy Bourdin collection.
why’d your products come so broken?! D;
They came without boxes inside a padded envelope, but the compacts can bump against each other – since they travel 3,000 miles, I imagine that’s what happened!
It’s funny because another blogger received the NARS eyeshadows, and two of them were broken as well! I think the eyeshadows are just extremely fragile.
It is possible – I know they’re definitely not shipped to me the same they would be if a retailer shipped them, though NARS typically ships samples to me unboxed (and the majority have survived intact).
I had heard that NARS had reformulated their eyeshadows, and started with this collection to do so, but I’m not so sure how true that is. That could possibly be why, though. Did you notice a difference at all, especially in texture or feel with these shadows?
I haven’t heard that they were doing that, so I don’t know – as far as I know this is a LE formula for this collection!
NARS’ eyeshadow payoff has been abysmal across the board in my experience.
The only single NARS shadow I own and use Tropic. It’s a beautiful ocean teal with silver sparkle and is a lovely accent for the lower lash line with a summer nude eye. The combination of that soft summer nude coupled with lining the outer third of my lower lashes with Tropic really makes my eye color pop.
Other than that, I’ve never found a NARS eyeshadow I’ve consistently used after purchase.
After two or three purchases, I’ve pretty much given up on them, especially after falling in love with Guerlain’s buttery [eyeshadow] formula.
I blame Christine for my new love affair with Guerlain. Exquisite across the board! 😀
I find it apropos that they came broken. It’s somehow fitting.
I was a bit worried about it – I wasn’t sure whether I should have put a note that that’s how they arrived or not!
It’s funny I always thought it was done for “artsy” effect LOL
this was a good write-up. i appreciate your honesty. thanks for taking the time to post swatches and dupes despite your personal feelings.
Thank you, Amber!
Christine, the fact that you were willing to put up this thoughtful and measured commentary, when you stay away from hot button topics and are taking quite a personal risk by putting your own thoughts out there — it makes me feel safe. And I even though I’ve never commented before, I wanted to tell you that. Thank you. Thank you for making this a safe place for people to talk about their thoughts the connections between this collection, abuse, and fashion, and not feel like buzzkills by bringing it up. I really appreciate it.
Thank you for taking the time to comment, Roshan! It really means a lot to have your support 🙂
Safe is exactly the right word. Christine, I cannot overemphasize how glad I am that you wrote this post. I agree with every single thing you said (and even more as I’m interested in fashion photography, and know a bit of Bourdin’s work), and I truly appreciate that you decided to put your foot down and use this outlet to explain how you felt. I felt queasy when I heard that Nars was going to do this collection, and it’s such a relief to read that the depiction of violence (and especially its glamorization for the sake of “art”) should be examined and questioned, because yes, it actually has an impact. It so happens that this was a pretty draining week for me due to the harassment of a male classmate of mine, and it is comforting to be reminded that the mistreatment of women and people in general is NOT normal, and should not be tolerated.
I’m also quite impressed by how you manage to maintain a balance, between your level-headed explanation and the swatches.
So thank you Christine, for opening up, and opening this tough discussion so gracefully.
I’m sorry to hear about your week, Anne! I hope you’re able to find a way to deal with the harassment you’ve received in a way that helps stop him from doing something that upsets you. I know that there are resources and supportive people, myself included, that will help in anyway that we can!
Thank you so much, Christine. I’m truly touched. It’s exactly that kind of support that helps you feel safe. Fortunately, it’s being taken care of. I tried to explain how terrible that guy made me feel to my friends, but it was when they could witness him being a jerk first-hand that they were really shocked, and they decided to step in (not that they would resort to violence against him, though, but they won’t let him come near me).
Because these situations (harrassment or worse, as depicted in Bourdin’s work) may be hard to understand for people who haven’t personally lived them, due to the overall desensitization around these issues in our societies, I think that opening a dialogue and discussing these problems as you did are crucial.
Thank goodness you have friends that will help you! I hope it’s able to be dealt with swiftly and he gets the message.
Ann,
What an elegant and thoughtful comment. Thank you for your brave and delicate post.
I’ve never tried NARS before (believe it or not) but if I were to try this collection, I probably would go for the nail polishes. They look amazing, especially Follow Me & the jelly-ish effect on No Limits I took was incredible. I did like Full Frontal lipstick, I think this looked really good on you btw. 🙂
Thank you!
Will you be posting swatches of the gifting sets?
Hey Colleen!
I don’t have any of the gifting sets right now, and when I told NARS I wasn’t going to review, I did say they could pass along the gifting sets to other bloggers if they wanted to (color was already on its way).
Bravo, Christine! I applaud your courage to stand behind your beliefs, while respecting that not everyone will agree, and still showing the product. Much respect.
Thank you, Dyan! 🙂
I commend you for standing up in what you believe in! 🙂 This is why I love your Blog because you are always honest 🙂
Thank you for your support & understanding, Natasha!
Thank you for providing the swatches. I must say I am surprised that you will not be reviewing the collection but I respect your position.
Thank you for respecting it, Chris 🙂
I just want to thank you for the time and thought you put into this post, Christine. I think you went above and beyond in spending the time you did researching what is obviously a very controversial subject for many. You put together a well-written, not too personal post which can be difficult with a serious topic like this. Much appreciated.
Thank you for your support, Stephanie! This was hard to write and was generally a very difficult process from start to finish, so having readers’ understanding is really quite a relief. Thank you again!
The colors are gorgeous, but not nearly as beautiful as what you wrote. Excellent work.
Side bar-when are you going to review Divine Nights?
Hi Aico!
Thank you! I don’t have Divine Nights’ products right now, so until I do receive (or purchase, whichever is available to me first!), I don’t have anything to share 🙂
Christine, personally I know nothing about any of this man’s work so I have no opinion one way or the other. However, I applaud all the research you did to figure out what YOUR feelings are about the issue and love that you are doing what feels right for you. I like the idea of using this as a starting point on becoming more aware about violence about women and perhaps finding ways to do something about it. Good for you!!!
I didn’t know anything myself and didn’t really think to delve any deeper until the comments about him started to come through!
Thank you, Terri!
I applaud you for this. I applaud you for being genuine and honest with your readers. I also applaud you for standing up for your beliefs on this issue. You’re a remarkable woman, Christine.
Thank you so much for your kind words, Melissa 🙂
Can you compare Last Tango with Tolede (from the summer collection)?
Hi Jenn!
Here is a link to my review on Tolede – http://www.temptalia.com/nars-tolede-lipstick-review-photos-swatches
I really respect and admire your decision to do this, Christine. Thank you for providing dupes too so we can look other places to find shades that match these because I won’t be buying anything from this line.
Thank you, Sarah! Hopefully the dupes are helpful to others as well! 🙂
Christine,
I first want to commend you on your article. I fully respect your decision, as you are my go to blogger for makeup reviews.
I am a survivor of Domestic Violence and our Love IS Foundation, gives free makeovers to victims and survivors of Domestic Violence. October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month and my team and I are taking a stand and saying No More Excuses, Silent No More.
I personally, appreciate you writing this, as you have gone out of your makeup realm, if you will, to address a topic that has been a social stigma in society. I stayed silent for 12 years in my ex-marriage and suffered horrific abuse. I am also a musician and I bring my music to shelters in Las Vegas and here in The San Fernando Valley of California. My good friend, Maria Morrision, founder of Cult Nails, gave us a generous donation for women to feel dignified and confident.
I have tears in my eyes. Thank You for addressing this from heart!!!
Best Regards,
Kristen Commodore
Hi Kristen!
Thank you for your support! I very much appreciate it. I’m so happy that you’ve survived through such a horrific time and marriage, but even more impressed and amazed by your dedication to helping future survivors.
Maria is a wonderful and generous woman – I am not surprised she helped out! At the end of each year, I donate several bags/boxes of tested and unused beauty products to a local organization that gives the products to victims of domestic violence.
I’m speechless. I admire the balanced approach you took to take a stand against violence and still provide your readers with swatches! I applaud your moral conviction. It’s people like you that can make this world a better place one baby step at a time… We can get so disconnected sometimes, thanks for realing us back in.
Thank you so much, Rina! 🙂 I appreciate your understanding!
Beautifully written Christine, I too am on the fence about Bourdin’s influences… I feel you handled this in a really graceful manner and I look forward to the general discussion this collection brings about
Thank you, Catherine! I, too, look forward to hearing from readers and hoping we can engage in a thoughtful and helpful discussion 🙂
Thanks for the dupes of the Last Tango lipstick Christine!
My pleasure, Lily!
100% class
🙂 Thank you!
I have to say I really enjoyed hearing your thoughts about this issue Christine and how thoughtfully you explained your process in terms of not reviewing this collection. Having worked with victims of domestic abuse the past couple years, I stand by your quote and the idea that people can make a difference in reducing violence against women.
That being said, I wasn’t really considering purchasing anything from this collection, but it is nice that I got to see swatches anyway.
So much love and respect for you for working with victims of domestic abuse! I can’t imagine it being easy but so important and meaningful.
Firstly, I would just like to say that I agree with you stance on this top. Secondly, I think it is great of you to spread this message on a popular outlet such as your blog. Violence against women (and men) is very common phenomenon in our society that needs to be addressed. Furthermore, the desensitization of violence is also becoming more prevalent which leads us to question where is our society heading?
Thanks for sharing!
I definitely worry about our (and I mean that in a very broad, generalizing way, fully knowing that not everyone is like this) desensitization to a lot of things, particularly violence.
as a woman who suffered domestic violence for 13 years, i think you did a wonderful thing by standing up for your beliefs. Kudos to you!
Thank you for having the courage to share, Anna! I’m so glad that you are a survivor now.
Christine
I totally support your decision. I think you’d be justified in not doing swatches either. When you first posted previews on the collection I abstained from commenting…even though some readers mentioned the violence and depiction of what looked like dead women. I like Nars but decided then I would not buy any of the products. While Mr. Nars has the right to be influenced by or collaborate with whomever he choices I also have the right not to agree or buy related products.
Violence against women is a serious issue. Too bad many in the fashion or beauty industry don’t take it seriously.
Hey Meganlisa!
Thanks for your support! I, too, wish that violence wasn’t as present in magazines/editorials/shoots. I honestly don’t read many magazines so learning that it continues to exist was really disheartening and that is often perpetuated towards women.
I respect your decision….support it….and hope others follow your example. Someone needs to say no…and seeing your support on this issue…clearly the market isn’t just loving the violence angle.
We can only hope! 🙂 Thank you again!
you must be literally the most thoughtful, level-headed person on this whole dang internet. this is a really cool post, and I respect both your decision not to review, and your decision to make swatches and dupe lists for your readers who might still be interested.
you put so much work and thought into Temptalia and it blows my mind almost every day. thank you for being so cool, Christine.
It was a really long, emotional journey to this point, and it’s just so amazing to have your support. Everything fell into place for me after I wrote my first draft of the post – it just felt right – and I hoped that if I laid my heart out there that readers would be able to see that as well.
Thank you, Liz!
Dear Christine:
Lurker here. You got me back into wearing makeup after many years of not, with a Fyrinnae review. Just bought a Sleek Sunset palette, too, because even though I have cool skin, those colors take me to a happy place and I can wear ’em on my hooded eyes.
Anyhow, I’ve always loved NARS colors. But back in the day, I was talking to a male SA at Sephora and we came to Deep Throat and I said–I can’t. Linda Lovelace was forced to make that film. And no one gave her justice. And he looked at me for a long time and then he asked, Why would anyone want to go there? I said, I don’t know. After a few more seconds, he thought and then we went to Stila instead. Beautiful colors, but nothing like Nars, which is why I’m so glad to know about Fyrinnae and Sleek.
Eventually, I broke down and bought some Nars nail polish. But still, I’ve always been put off by Deep Throat. Yet his colors are so gorgeous—so I was contemplating buying some of his products again when you ran this, and I thought, why? There are so many makeup companies that offer beautiful colors and products at great prices that do not fetishize violence against women, why would I give my money to this man?
Gendered violence–which contrary to the claims of the MRA/pro-rape-brigade is virtually always male-on-female or male-on-male to feminize men, especially in its more extreme and unprovoked forms–is a huge problem, especially because it is so rarely punished and so often excused. I know women who have had to change their names and go underground, with no charges being preferred against their perps, and well as binders full of women who’ve been raped and knew they would be laughed out of the police station if they try to press charges. Knew one who did and was brought to the point of suicide by her treatment by the police.
You run a great blog that allows your readers to think of makeup as playful, as joyous, as how to use and enjoy really beautiful colors. So I think running this piece was not only the morally right thing to do, but very much in keeping with your larger message.
Erin
Hi Erin!
Thank you for coming out of lurkdom for a spell 🙂 Happy to hear you’ve discovered the awesomeness of Fyrinnae (and Sleek!). Hope you enjoy the Sunset palette! But more seriously: you are absolutely correct that there are lots of options out there, so there’s no reason to buy from a brand that doesn’t sit right with you. It’s makeup, as you said — joyous and playful — and it should make you feel that way. I’m glad that you’ve found other brands that suit your tastes that make you feel good using them!
I appreciate you sharing additional information about gendered violence, the difficulty of victims to come forward, and of course, the always, always depressing conviction/prosecution rate. The latter is the hardest part for me to accept.
You wrote, “The latter is the hardest part for me to accept.”
The first duty of the state, the foundation of the social compact, is to protect and defend those who cannot defend themselves. Yet the court cases that hold no individual citizen is entitled to police protection, are to my knowledge all (but one) based upon appallingly bad-faith behavior by the police towards women; the exception was a male child who was brutalized by his father, who was also abusive to his mother, his father’s wife.
As a friend of mine (who went underground) asked, if we have no right to police protection (which she knows is so much more than a 24/7 detail), what do we have the police for?
Now I go back to lurkdom. Thank you for your blog.
Best,
Erin
It is heartbreaking to hear stories of when the legal system, police system, or other branches of our justice system, just don’t come through for people who need them. It is actually one of the reasons that the organization that I’ve chosen to donate [beauty products] to is actually one that provides pro bono legal services to victims of domestic violence (http://www.probonoproject.org/), because without consequence, without punishment, actions will continue and abusers will not have to answer for the damage they’ve caused, so they do great work in an area that needs help while helping people that need it even more.
Why is it, the very first place people go to is the negative correlation? Deep Throat also has a political affiliation, and how do we know which is being referred to? As for Bourdin, how do we know what he was thinking? His work was abundant at a time violence against women was quite common, yet noone spoke of it. Perhaps this was his way of bringing attention to it, and start the conversation. We have no way of knowing what he may have witnessed in his own home while growing it up, and what sort of effect it may have had. Anthony Burgess wrote A Clockwork Orange after watching his wife’s brutal rape & murder, all while he sat helpless in a wheelchair. The way he found to deal with it was his art, which was writing.
One of the many things I love about NARS is that I learn something with every product. This collection is no exception. Before this, I had never even heard of Guy Bourdin, so I looked him up. There was much turmoil in his life as a child, and again, I wonder how much of it influenced his work, and what he hoped to actually accomplish through his art. I have never heard of an artist of any sort producing random pieces that weren’t intended to invoke thought.
Without knowing what the press release originally said about Deep Throat, it is hard to say where it originated from, but it is certainly up to interpretation (both negatively and not). We also react, interpret, and see things through our own worldview. To that end, each person has to do what makes them feel good, especially when it’s something like makeup which should make us feel better, not worse.
I did try to find some quotes or interviews, but I wasn’t successful, which wasn’t a total surprise given he passed away before everything became digital, let alone when he was at the height of his career. I’m happy you’ve taken a look at his work and life and have come to your own conclusions – that was and remains my primary goal, as I know we are all intelligent people here in the community, though we may not always agree, we can start and participate in a meaningful dialogue.
Erin- might I suggest you re-word that comment? Fact of the matter is, men do get raped. By women. And it’s just as traumatizing to them as it is to any woman. And it’s not just the “MRA/pro rape brigade” that says so, men who’ve been raped would probably assert that it was pretty traumatizing. For you to say otherwise is pretty offensive and hurtful to all victims.
Christine- I applaud you for being able to voice your opinion on this matter in such a graceful and professional way
Thank you, Rebecca!
This is a really excellent comment. Thank you for writing it, Erin.
Wow! Well said!
Dear Erin, thank you for sharing your comment with us, Temptalia’s followers. I’m passionate about Gender studies/issues and also passionate about makeup as a fun way of self-expression. I didn’t know Deep Throat was a movie and didn’t know who Linda Lovelace was until reading your post. I thought the name of Nars’ blush “Deep Throat” rather had to do with the Watergate informant, LOL. Though now knowing about the movie and considering the sexuality involved in Nars products’ choice of names, it makes more sense that the name of the blush has to do with Linda Lovelace. I’m now thinking I shouldn’t buy this blush, which I’ve wanted for a while. Like you said, there are lots of brands and I think we, as consumers, should spend our money in however way we decide is best.
Thanks, Vex and Regina. Rebecca, I stand by what I said. Virtually all isn’t all–I’m always happy to acknowledge the exceptions to the rule because they do exist. But they also still takes place in a context of overwhelming male-on-female violence and dominance.
Adriana, I just bought Rose Gold from Sleek. Order hasn’t arrived yet, but I’ve heard it is a dupe for Orgasm (a name that is more than enough to put me off, even if I loved everything else about the company) and Orgasm and Deep Throat seem to be more-and-less intense versions of each other. So it might also work for you. (I have a hard time believing I’m typing this.) If it doesn’t, you’re not out a whole lot of money–it certainly looks like a beautiful color.
Oh, man, I’m remembering the first time I tried to wear blush back in senior year in high school. It was this amazing rubellite and I simply didn’t understand, or have the tools, to blend it out. It was frighteningly intense–needless to say…I want it back because watching Christina make some of these super-intense colors work makes me think I might have a chance. It was purrty….
I am not from USA, so I didn’t know about any movie or the details of Watergate. I just thought by Deep Throat they mean the thing you can do in bed, same as with Orgasm, that they give their products sexy names for marketing reasons. Never thought it could have any deeper meanings 😀
Hmm interesting piece of information…thanks for the background. I’m loving goodbye emmanuella & union libre. Christine when will this collection be released?
October 15th!
Brava to you, Christine, for saying this. It seems that in far too many spheres, “art” triumphs over what is right or humane. Violence and degradation of women is not “artistic” in my eyes and clearly not in yours. And it seems, from the responses, that we are not alone.
I consider myself very open-minded, but the art argument can only stretch so far (for me) when art is made commercial (to me, it is similar how in the U.S. there is a distinction between the treatment of traditional notions of free speech and commercial speech) – and used to move product. Art for the sake of art and with proper context might be more compelling as an argument, though it’s not art that I would seek out, admire, or applaud personally.
Well said, Mariella.
I have utmost respect for your decisions regarding this collection. Violence against women definitely seems like an issue you’re devoted to, with the donations you’ve made to shelters and the resources you promote, and yet you are still able to understand the many facets of a controversial topic…and do all the work entailed in swatching, photographing, editing, and writing! Christine, you totally set the bar, not just for bloggers but as a conscientious, devoted person.
Thank you, Helena! I’m a big proponent of trying to see both sides (or multiple sides) of any argument/issue, because it can clarify your own argument, help you understand the other side, and is generally helpful in just understanding the issue as a whole.
Bravissima, Christine, for your thoughtful and well-researched post. I confess to being horrified when I read that Nars was honoring Bourdin. I find his more controversial images unviewable, but I am aware that there is an argument to be made for the power of art in moving the viewer (be it positive or negative). In any case, I knew there was a reason Temptalia is a daily must-read for me.
I did not realize how graphic the imagery was until I looked at his portfolio (the image that is used on one of the gifting sets that seemed to be most controversial is, surprisingly, somewhat tame in comparison to some of his other shots) myself. Thank you for your support, Maureen!
I fully respect your decision and professionalism; I appreciate your bringing out this post as a way to also raise awareness about the whole collaboration. I would have never thought about it in the way you’ve pointed out and I am glad to have that perspective in mind when thinking about whether to purchase them or not.
Thank you for the commentary and your honesty.
Thank you, Stephanie, for your support! Sometimes, we just have to take a moment and ponder, and whatever we conclude, at least we took the time to think about it 🙂
I really think you’re making a mountain out of a molehill about this.
Hi Anita,
I respect your opinion and have acknowledged that there are other viewpoints, which I also discussed above, but I did not casually dismiss anyone’s point of view, so I politely ask you not to dismiss mine.
Go Christine! Don’t ever stop being awesome 🙂
🙂 I will try not to stop!
Wow, Anita. I read through all of these comments and was thrilled to see the (well-deserved) support Christine got, but then I got to this one and it just made me sad. It almost feels like you didn’t take the time to read the post and wrote this in response to the idea of the post. But I applaud you, Christine, for your strong moral convictions and well-written, well-thought-out post. Thank you.
Thank you, Ellen!
Anita, your comment towards Christine’s review seems somewhat dismissive. You are entitled to you opinion certainly, but so is Christine and her readers. If you read the post, I fail to see how you didn’t pick up on how clearly Christine illustrated her struggle with this. And yet went on to review the collection anyway. On a larger note, I am a survivor of an abusive relationship and I can tell you, there is nothing glamourous about it. I obviously have no way of knowing if you have had the same experience, but your comment was very thoughtless and hurtful to those of us that have. Attitudes like you expressed in your comment are just stunning in their casual cruelty. There is no such thing as making a mountain out of a molehill when it comes to abuse and violence, and glamorizing either of those.
Well said, Deb! I don’t mind a different viewpoint or outright disagreement, but trying to minimize someone’s feelings or dismissing their feelings entirely doesn’t facilitate discussion at all – it attempts to shut it down entirely without any real reasoning.
I really respect your choice, Christine! You’re always so kind and intelligent, and your empathy to both your readers and the women of the world is inspiring. I agree with your choice, even as someone with a Bachelors of Fine Art, I can understand great art, but the idea of violence against women is something that should not be tolerated. The collection is ok, the shadows seem TOTALLY dupeable, the lipsticks are actually what I found most beautiful! But still, again, you’re really an amazing person, and thank you for your empathy.
Thanks, Mariah! As much as I can understand the argument that art is art, art is freedom of expression, I can’t fully accept it personally, and less so in a commercialized context.
It’s already looking better than the stuff from Andy Warhol collection!
Christine, I completely respect your opinion for the disclaimer, I’m curious as to why the recently reviewed RiRi Hearts MAC collection did not warrant the same kind of discussion. I think her music (a duet with Chris Brown entitled “Nobody’s Business”) and actions (her cyberbullying of fans including referring to them in vulgar language) does nothing but hinder real conversations about domestic violence. Unfortunately, there are numerous beauty companies that promote sexist and racist ideas, so I hope this dialogue does not begin or end with this new collection with Nars.
Hi Ebony,
I can’t say that I pay extensive attention to Rihanna’s lyrics or her personal life (re: how she acts towards fans) – it’s not on my radar. I did significantly moderate and did have to put disclaimers on some of the RiRi Hearts MAC posts (I think some of the earlier information posts, and I know I had to make statements on our Facebook posts regarding the collection), because many comments being made were making light of domestic violence. I am, personally, uncomfortable making judgments about what a survivor of domestic violence should or shouldn’t say or feel or act in regards to that part in their life. It is also beyond my expertise/body of knowledge. I can only hope that she has taken the necessary steps to heal, move forward, and emerge stronger.
Thank you for this perfect response, Christine. The two situations are nowhere near comparable. The comment you were responding to was borderline, if not outright, victim-blaming.
I didn’t buy anything from Mac’s RiRi collection because I have no respect for her after the CB fiasco.
I typically don’t pay attention to the “inspiration” behind makeup collections. Thanks to your post, I did look Guy up. Some pictures I saw were artistic, some were “meh”. I didn’t see anything too heavily offensive, but you’ve inspired further research. I had planned on buying a lot from this collection, but I now know I have the dupes for most of the items I wanted.
Thanks for the information about Guy and the collection.
Thanks for taking the time to check out his work in more detail, Nichole!
Can you compare Last Tango to Tolede?
Here is my review on Tolede, Jenn! http://www.temptalia.com/nars-tolede-lipstick-review-photos-swatches
I appreciate your conscientious objection to this collection. I wish you had stood up like this against the Rihanna x MAC collaboration, because I think she similarly normalizes violence against women, and is much more dangerous to our society since there are so many younger girls who look up to her.
Hi Xina!
I did not make any comment on the MAC and Rihanna collaboration as I did not personally feel the need to do so based on the information I have/understanding of Rihanna and what she went through. Could you elaborate on how she as the victim/survivor normalizes violence against women? I’m always happy to discuss and be more knowledgeable/educated on any subject, as I am by no means an expert. Thank you!
Rihanna got back together with Chris Brown after he beat her. At the time, she was sneaking around about it, and then she went to being defiant about it. It is typical behavior for a victim of domestic abuse to make excuses for their abuser and get back together with them, but it’s still unhealthy. Getting back with Chris Brown sent the message that what he did was okay, and it wasn’t that big of a deal because she got over it and got back with him quickly enough.
Hey Xina,
I am not an expert on domestic violence, and I have no psychology background or the like, but what I understand about domestic violence and the cycle of abuse, is that it’s actually quite typical for a victim to go back to the abuser (I know I read a statistic that said that on average, it takes someone seven times before they really leave their abuser). From what I’ve read, it is also typical to be defiant, to try to convince people otherwise. As you said – typical behavior – and of course, it’s unhealthy, but why is the blame on Rihanna for doing something that many other victims have to go through before they can really move on? Blaming her just reinforces that she deserves any abuse that she gets. People in abusive relationships need all of the support they can get so they have the confidence and support network to leave.
Please stop blaming the victim. Her personal life choices are none of our business.
I see where you’re coming from, but the difference between Rihanna and Guy Bourdin is that violence entered their lives in different ways: it personally happened to Rihanna, but Bourdin placed it in the context of his work and called it art. It’s important to note the differences.
I thought about why I didn’t object to the Rihanna collab, but when I thought about it, it was just as you said; not only did violence enter their lives in different ways, it affected them differently. Guy Bourdin was using depictions of violence against women in a professional context for profit, and attempting (whether it was ethically right to or not) to present it as art. Rihanna was a victim of personal domestic violence by a person she had chosen to become romantically involved with and had placed her trust in. One can much more easily choose a different art subject or to depict the subject differently, but for an abuse victim to leave their abuser is much harder. Moreover, going about one’s professional, for-profit art in a different way does not carry nearly the same social stigma (either implicit or explicit) that abuse victims sadly have to live with each day.
Rihanna is not normalizing violence against women, but rather doing what she wants. Rihanna does not go around saying that abuse is okay – she just happened to stay with someone who, at some point, abused her.
Abuse is a very serious issue, mentally, emotionally, and socially, and blaming those abused for their behavior toward their abusers is entitled and unproductive.
well said. I know this is an old post but truly it brought tears to my eyes to see so many people essentially blaming Rihanna for continuing her career after being victimized. I’m not a huge fan and don’t follow her personal life. Of course if she were my daughter/friend/sister I would not want to see her back with someone who assaulted her. However, at the end of the day she did not welcome abuse, she did not tell people being victimized is ok, and she is not using those events to sell products. It seems like some people feel she should be ashamed and hide instead of continuing her life as it was — unfortunately this is the reason so many violent acts against women go unreported.
I totally support and respect your thoughts and decisions. I agree with you and really commend you for being so professional and thoughtful.
By the way your skin looks extra, extra awesome. What skincare products are you using?
Hi Laura!
Thank you!
You’re not the only one who asked/noticed something different, so I just wrote up about why – which is owed to the Hourglass’ Ambient Lighting Palette 🙂 http://www.temptalia.com/hourglass-ambient-lighting-palette-review-photos-swatches
Hi, Christine:
I didn’t know about Guy Bourdin until I saw the preview images. Later, like you did, I researched and found quite a lot about him. I was on the fence. But it wasn’t until reading this post that I decided not to buy anything from this collection. I’m not even looking at them when they reach the stores.
I am a Bachelor on Arts; photography and painting are my life, and I know art can cover controversial topics without glamourizing them. Bourdin did just that: he tried to make them attractive, he disregarded the pain that many went through because of the same situations he recreated in his photoshoots.
Now I don’t only admire you because of the high quality of your reviews and photographs, but also because of your integrity as a person.
Sometimes controversial art needs context, I think, if it truly wants to be viewed as art or as a commentary on a larger issue in a serious way. It may not fully justify it, but it would be a more compelling argument.
Thank you, Daniel!
I was excited to buy from this collection, but the farther I go down the rabbit hole with reading about Bourdin, the less inclined I feel to buy anything from it. I respect art and artists and how they express themselves and always will, but this squicks me out quite a bit. It’s one thing to be a bit naughty and cheeky…I don’t think this quite fits into that category. Thanks for this commentary Christine.
That’s how I felt, Elle! Going down a very dark rabbit hole and finding it harder and harder to ignore what I was seeing.
You just gained more of my respect, Christine. I love how genuine and honest you are with Temptalia.
And I’m sorry I had to stray away from the topic, but I just had to comment how your skin looks smoother here, if that’s even possible given your skin was already so nice!
Thank you, B!
You’re not the only one who asked/noticed something different, so I just wrote up about why – which is owed to the Hourglass’ Ambient Lighting Palette 🙂 http://www.temptalia.com/hourglass-ambient-lighting-palette-review-photos-swatches
Hi Christine,
Just wanted to let you know I think it’s wonderful that you’re abstaining from reviewing this collection. I was aware that Bourdain was a photographer who influenced Nars, but I don’t think I would’ve realized the violence against women (VAW) undertones in Bourdain’s work if you hadn’t of pointed it out. I’m thankful that I will no longer be purchasing/supporting this line & I wouldn’t have known enough to do my own research about this particular topic (one might think a makeup collaboration would be innocent enough?). I will have to become more aware/ vigilant in the future, it would’ve upset me to find out after the fact if I had supported this collaboration. So thanks for the heads up & great work!
Thanks for your support, Meghan! I’m with you – when I initially saw images from the gifting collection, I really didn’t interpret anything really amiss, but when you view his work as a whole and go beyond, it’s definitely much more apparent. Hopefully future collaborators with NARS will be less controversial. I know that I will be spending a bit more time to know exactly brands are collaborating with so at least we’re not caught off-guard.
I think it can be good to have some controversy for the sake of discussion. However, I believe it should be in the interest of dismantling the normalization of things like violence against women, not in favour of it.
I’m sure this wasn’t an easy decision for you, especially while having to consider reader interest. But I hope you know that there are some of us who are really proud of you! We all need to do a little investigative work I think, and you’re setting a really great example for everyone!
Thank you, Meghan! I’ve definitely learned that I need to do a little more legwork when brands collaborate with people I don’t know!
Christine – Thank you for all the effort and thought you put into Temptalia. Looking through your swatches is always a great escape at the end of the day, but I appreciate your candor and thoughtfulness even more. Makeup is an obsession of mine and I will always love the way the perfect red lipstick makes me feel, but not at the cost of being uninformed. Again, thank you! You are a gem. Xo
Thank you so much, Kelly 🙂
Christine,
I have only recently started leaving comments and interacting here on Temptalia; though I have been lurking for close to a year. Can I say that you have an amazing blog, so much knowledge, and a true talent to be unbiased towards products/ideas, etc? I will say that more of what has brought me back to your site over and over (ok, ok EVERY DAY HAHA..i am a makeup addict) is your kind heart. I can see that you are a great person and this also makes me feel..safe (as another poster stated).
I am a survivor of child abuse from my mother. All five of my siblings and are were physically and mentally abused from day 1 in life. Thank goodness for people like you who care. If not for people like you, I am not sure that I nor my siblings would be alive. Not only are we alive, almost all of us have come out survivors, successful and so thankful to have the chance that caring people that went the extra mile for us gave to us!
Sorry to be so long winded, but this brought tears to my eyes. Thank you. Thank you for ‘saying’ that abuse is no laughable matter and for making it real. No abuse is ok.
Sincerely,
Dani
Hi Dani!
Thank you for commenting and coming out of lurkdom!
I’m so sad to hear about the abuse you and your siblings suffered from your mother, but I am so thankful and happy that you are all alive and almost all of you are survivors (I’m sure whoever you’ve noted is alive but not yet a survivor is finding plenty of support from you and the rest of the family to get there). Thank you for having the courage to share your story, Dani!
I kind of like the nude lipstick, but probably won’t be purchasing it. Anyways this is a little off topic, but what foundation are you wearing? This is the best your skin has ever looked!!! I need to know what it is hahaha.
Hey!
The foundation is Guerlain Parure de Lumiere! You’re not the only one who asked/noticed something different, so I just wrote up about why – which is owed to the Hourglass’ Ambient Lighting Palette 🙂 http://www.temptalia.com/hourglass-ambient-lighting-palette-review-photos-swatches
Christine, I didn’t think it was possible for me to respect you more than I already did, but you’ve gone and done it! I don’t normally comment, am more of a ‘silent admirer’ 🙂
It really boils down to this. The majority of purchases of this collection will be made by women.
In the UK, more than 1 in 3 women have experienced Domestic Abuse. More than 1 in 4 have been sexually assaulted or raped. So, for NARS to collaborate with Bourdin, they are doing an implorable disservice to a third of their target market, not even including the ones who know a victim themselves.
Thank you or taking a stand,
Polly, NVARCC (Northampton Violence and Rape Crisis Centre, England)
Hi Polly!
Thank you for taking the time to comment on this post! I very much appreciate it. It is always startling to hear the severity of the statistics, both where I live as well as abroad. It is so hard to know the statistics.
Thank you, too, for working at the NVARCC and helping others!
I was glad you decided to review it, but your swatches has day dream looking like I most have it. I wrote it off cos other reviewers compared it to orgasm. And now I know I want Mississippi mermaid(besides just for the name.)
I’m glad I was able to help you, Erin!
His website is blocked where I live and I’m probably better off. But as far as the colors, sleek made a blush like that once, I think it was from the Mediterranean collection, called Santorini.
Thank you for the heads up on Santorini – will go look into it!
Hi Christine, I really appreciate and respect your decision not to review this collection. I can only imagine how difficult it was, but the professionalism and sensitivity you’ve shown are part of why you’re one of my favorite bloggers. As someone who grew up surrounded by men who treated violence against women as a legitimate threat at the scariest times and a “funny joke” at other times – I am so thankful for your stance. I was so upset and disappointed that NARS chose to support Guy Bourdin’s “art”, I definitely won’t be buying from this collection.
I hope that while having to listen to threats of violence or violence used as a joke that you were not subjected to more – though the threat of violence can be just as damaging and abusive as real violence. I’m happy that you can identify that experience, though – thank you for sharing, Gabby!
Dear Christine
Much respect for your decision not to review this collection.
I fully respect your saying you do not want to see violence against men and women glamorized.
For women, the threat of violence is different, though. It is intimate partners and family members that are most dangerous for women. The level of physical and sexual violence women on average, also in the US and Europe, experience is fundmentally different for women and men. The statistically most dangerous life choice for a woman is not to drive at high speed, to smoke, or to take other “bad choices”, but to divorce. When I see the NARS photos of dead women in designer clothes, I cannot help but think about the atrocities women experience from the people they should find the most support in, their intimate partners. I cannot help but think about the college education report I recently read about where men’s and women’s life experiences differed dramatically, and young men were shocked that for their female peers, every man in a dark alley was a potential rapist, and the men themselves did not have to grow up and live with such (often implicit, not conscious) threats.
So to portray graphic violence against women is something totally different from portraying violence against men given the endemic and systematic nature of violence against women in our societies.
Still, I would not like to see glamorized death of men either.
I just wanted to add this to your well written opinion, and thank you for the link to violence against women reports.
I respect you even more now! Thank you!
I will not buy from this NARS collection I might add.
Yes, though both genders experience violence and the population at large is subject to numerous atrocities (it is a sad world – anyone who reads the news cycle would know it, though there are acts of kindness and happy endings sometimes), but the type of violence women experience and the degree is often different from what many men experience. The increase in risk for a woman who attends college is not really surprising but hard to think about. My husband and I often discuss how our gender colors our reactions or choices in certain situations – I have always been hyper-aware (or paranoid, however you’d like to describe it) of my particular vulnerability as a woman (and even though the odds are it is from an intimate partner or someone you know, it doesn’t mitigate the fear of strangers).
Thank you for sharing, Christine!
I am quite shocked that Nars would want to accociate themselves with something/someone that is basically glamourising violence against women. Surely nobody can think that this is a good idea? It’s nearly as bad as the MAC/Rodarte collection that got cancelled.
I think it’s very brave of you to stand up and say ‘this is what I believe in’ and explain why you won’t be reviewing the collection but still be able to put your own feeling aside and post swatches/dupes for those people who may still be interested in the collection. Personally I will be staying away as I believe that glamourising violence, especially violence towards women, is basically condoning it which is something I can never agree with. But thank you for stepping outside of your ‘makeup bubble’ and bringing this to the attention of people who may not be aware of what the artists work represented.
Thank you, Laura Lou! There are those who find his work inspirational or interpret his work as an analysis of violence against women or a way of highlighting the issue or simply that his work was not only under that theme. They’re not arguments I find compelling to the point where I’ve changed my mind, personally, but I tried to acknowledge the other sides of the argument and respect others who have seen his work and interpreted it otherwise. I appreciate you having the same understanding and respect 🙂
I didn’t have any idea about this — Thank you. This is why we all love you, you manage to stand behind your beliefs while still being very thoughtful to include swatches for your readers who may not mind the issue.
No problem, Ryou! Thank you!
hello again, actually i fell bad now, because i didint know the artist and the controversy around him. and i am looking and searching now. i dont support cruelty in any form.I just looked at the products and they look gorgeous.now i am reading. thanks for the swatches dear Christine. I support your choice on not reviewing this collection.
It’s just fine, Oksana! Thank you for taking the time to look into it 🙂
Hi Christine,
I’m not sure there would be another blogger on the entire internet that will/would put as much thought, research and feeling into a post.
This just confirms you, I think at the top of the pile.
Thank you for writing such a fantastic piece and still including all the photos which I might add look lovely and dupes for all of us weather we are buying or not.
I have never heard of this person before and what one person finds acceptable for art a lot of other people are quite confrontig and unacceptable.
I completely support you and the way you feel and can imagine that it could have been concerning for you to put on as to how your readers would react to you not giving it any ratings, but from reading others comments everyone is so suppotive of you and your views..
Thanks again for providing such a wonderful service for us all to enjoy.
I agree with you not reviewing the collection and I wouldn’t buy anythinf from it.
Thank you so much! I appreciate your understanding and support. It really does mean a lot to hear it from you and other readers.
Hi Christine, I applaud you for taking a stand on this subject in such an intelligent an mature manner. I don’t know how I stand on this subject personally, but you have made me think about the way these images suggesting violence have become mainstream and an important part of fashion.
Thanks for your support, Nonah! As long as we each take a little time to ponder the bigger picture, that’s all we can ask of ourselves. We may not always come to the same conclusion or agree, but it’s the critical thinking portion that’s so important.
Amazing commentary on a subject dear to my heart! Thank you for putting so much thought and research into it, for listening to your heart, and for having the courage to put it out there! I recommend your blog to people at makeup counters all the time. You do an awesome job and I depend on your swatches for my purchasing decisions. Thank you for recognizing that this product release wasn’t just about the product. That the context was also important and required comment also. Simply an awesome commentary! Good job!!!
Thank you so much, Karen! I really appreciate your support!
Thank you Christine. This posting is intelligent, thoughtful, and well-informed and I find all those qualities very beautiful.
I know I could never feel pretty buying or wearing anything from this collection.
Thank you for letting me take the time to say it 🙂
Great post Christine! I will be passing on this collection as well.