Sunday Riley Crème Gloss Sheer Impact Lip Color in Chameleon

In my sweep through Sunday Riley at Barneys online, I saw Chameleon, a sheer mauve lip Crème Gloss Sheer Impact Lip Color ($28) shade that looked like a duplicate for one of my long-time Dior favorites. The not-quite-plum, not-quite-rose, not-really brown shade is a hybrid color that always looks good on me. It popped right into my bag - no hesitation!

Sunday Riley's super-conditioning Crème Gloss formula is billed as achieving something that is next to impossible: non-tacky, long-wearing, high-gloss sheen. I think that may be an exaggeration, given that we all have and love lip glosses that offer non-tacky, long-wearing, shiny color. Still, they got the buzz words right.

A true one-stroke color application that offers superior shine in universally flattering shades, ranging from semi-translucent to shimmery to intense pops of vibrant color. Can be worn alone or layered over lip color to create endlessly customizable shades.

Chameleon arrived. I drew a breath when I looked at the tube. I was sure it was going to be a new favorite. I applied it to my lips. I tasted a flavor that I can't describe. The flavor is fleeting, though, so I won't hold that against it.

I took a few swatch photos one morning so that I could show you the sheer mauve shade. While it's very sheer, the color is a pretty addition to my lips. I can see some color when the gloss is layered over my natural lip color. I didn't need another Chelsea!

Look at the shine in direct sunlight! The tube appears to contain tiny bits of light that must contribute to the brilliant shine on the lips. You should be able to see the shimmer in my photo of the tube above.

I can't tell you that Sunday Riley Crème Gloss Sheer Impact Lip Color is long-wearing. It lasts about as long as any good lip gloss lasts on me. I have a talent for absorbing lip glosses. Plus, I talk, eat, and drink. Perhaps my standards for wear are lower than they should be, but I've adapted to frequent re-application of my lip glosses.

I ordered two more shades. I'll let you know when they arrive. I have no idea what stock Barneys may still have available. Apparently, there was a run on Sunday Riley during their gift bag event. I'd recommend that you call to order, rather than try to order online. The store can tell you what they definitely have in stock.

Photo at top courtesy of Barneys; other photos by Best Things in Beauty