Shiseido Lacquer Rouge in Nymph - New for Fall

Shiseido's new Lacquer Rouge ($25) liquid lipstick was inspired by Japanese Laquerware. One coat provides intense color and deep luster. This rich liquid lipstick leaves lips as smooth as lacquer. The applicator fits closely against the lips for a comfortable, even application that does not bleed. Lacquer Rouge improves dry, rough, or peeling lips with continued use, leaving them smooth and deeply moisturized through its Super Hydro-Wrap Vitalizing DE (whatever that is).

Make no mistake - when Shiseido says intense color, expect intense. On my first glance at the display at Bloomingdale's, I chose the color I felt I could wear (remember, I'm a dark lip color phobe). I selected Nymph (RD305), which is outlined in the shade selection photo below.

Even though it looks "relatively light," like a mauve rose, on the lips it's intense. Take a look at my swatch photos, taken in full, late-afternoon sun.

Here's Nymph, one of the lighter shades. You can expect a lot more color from the rest of the shades (with the exception of Portrait (RD203), which has similar intensity). I was not inspired to buy more than one, but if you love a strong lip, Lacquer Rouge will delight you.

Nymph makes my eyes pop blue (as opposed to green, which they can do). Lacquer Rouge is extremely lightweight on my lips, applies quickly and easily (one coat is right!), feels fabulous and hydrating, has a subtle shine, and is long-lasting. Although the rose shade of Nymph is as dark as I can wear comfortably, it's a keeper. I love it.

I purchased mine at Bloomingdale's, where the display encased the lip colors like little treasures. I had to get help to test them; I was afraid I'd break something. You can also purchase Lacquer Rouge at Nordstrom, Macy's, and all the other stores with Shiseido counters, as well as Shiseido's Web site.

Photo at top courtesy of Shiseido; others by Best Things in Beauty