Leader

Hourglass Leader GIRL Lip Stylo ($32.00 for 0.09 oz.) is a bright, medium-dark fuchsia pink with subtle, cool undertones and a soft sheen. It had semi-opaque, buildable color payoff that covered the lips with even, smooth color. The texture was creamy, thin without being clingy or emphasizing, and softened the look of my lip lines. This shade did not seem quite as hydrating as others in the line, though it was still lightly moisturizing over the four and a half hours it lasted. It also left a subtle stain behind.

The GIRL Lip Stylo formula is supposed to have "modern color with luxurious hydration for a lustrous finish," while the brand founder is quoted (on Sephora) stating, "I can build as much--or as little--color as I like." I would describe the coverage semi-opaque and buildable, which seemed to fit the brand's description. The consistency was smooth, creamy, and lightweight, but the color still adhered well to the lips (three to five hours, depending on the shade). I definitely felt like I could apply a little here, a little there, and then spread the color out by pressing my lips together for sheerer coverage, or I could apply a single layer and get semi-opaque coverage fairly easily. The formula was incredibly comfortable to wear: lightweight, hydrating, and smoothing. Some balm-like formulas that have more coverage can sit in lip lines, but I felt like these filled them and made them look softer. I didn't notice any scent or taste.

FURTHER READING: Formula Overview, which is a detailed review of the range as a whole.

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