Viva Glam Rihanna

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.

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

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