Mac's 'Viva Glam Rihanna' Lipstick

Mac Viva Glam Rihanna Lipstick | £15.00 | Link

Ok, Ok. I hold my hands up and admit I'm a complete lipstick addict - they have to be my ultimate weakness. Let's face it - I really didn't need yet another red in my stash but Rihanna's new offering for Mac's Viva Glam collection caught my attention in an instant.  I'm not sure whether it was the sleek, matte red bullet, the classic cherry red tone or the simple fact that Rihanna created it (do you need any other reason?!) - but I needed it in my life. I have to say, it's unlike any other red that I have in my collection and I'm so glad I gave in to temptation and impulse-purchased this little beauty (woops...). It's quite unique really - it looks completely different on everybody. Seriously, google it.  I was completely baffled when I went searching for reviews - it really does completely transform depending on your skin tone and colouring.  On some, it looks like a beautiful classic cool-toned red, and on others it appears like a pop of bright cherry red.  Either way,  it's stunning - although I can imagine this red isn't going to be loved by all...

Viva Glam Rihanna is a frost finish Mac lipstick (cue lots of people grimacing in disappointment - Mac's frost finish lipsticks are well known to be less than favourable!), however, do not let that put you off! One of my favourite ever Mac lipsticks has to be 'Costa Chic' - the frost finish actually compliments the colour and gives it much more dimension on the lips.  I find Viva Glam Rihanna to be very similar - the fact that it's such a pigmented, strong colour means it actually works very well with the frosted finish and it actually isn't overly 'frosty' whatsoever.  The frost finish does not effect the colour pay off and it gives the colour more of a sheen as opposed to a dated, 'wishy-washy' sort of look. The pigmentation is spot on - it's a very strong red that doesn't need building up - what you see is what you get.  It can settle into fine lines slightly but it's nothing a bit of balm won't fix and I don't find it to be overly drying.   The shade is described on the Mac website as a 'Frosty Blue-Red', and I have to agree with this.  It definitely does lean towards the cooler end of the spectrum. However, it has a certain brightness to it that makes it quite unique - I hate to use the word 'pop' (i shudder at such cliche words...) but really, that's the only way I can describe it - a pop of statement red. On me, it appears like a bright, cherry-ish red with a blue-ish undertone to it, but I've seen this on other people and it appears much more warm and bright.  The frost finish actually makes this lipstick for me - it gives that added bit of dimension and helps the lips to appear fuller - I personally find it works in it's favour and it actually looks very flattering. It's essentially a classic red with a little bit of a twist.  

Part of me can't help but wish it had arrived in stores before Christmas as it would have been perfect! But you can never go wrong with a slick of red lipstick any time of year can you? The limited edition packaging is also a lovely little novelty! Of course, bare in mind that this shade won't be for everyone, and it's worth swatching in store before you buy - I admit I didn't exactly need this shade (I find it quite similar to 'Mac Red' but with added dimension) however, it's one that I know I will get use out of and I really like the slight shimmer it has to it. Viva Glam Rihanna retails for £15.00 and as with all lipsticks from the Viva Glam range, the full RRP (minus VAT) from the sale goes towards helping people across the globe effected by HIV/AIDS - so rest assured your mid-week lipstick treat is going to a good cause!  I have to say, this is the first time I've ever been tempted by the matching lipglass.  From what I've seen on other blogs, the two look absolutely amazing when paired together but sadly, me and Mac lip glosses don't exactly get on like a house on fire... (if you're a lip gloss fan - it might be just your cup of tea, though!). You can find Viva Glam Rihanna on Mac's website here.

Have you tried Mac's Viva Glam Rihanna? What did you reckon?