Chanel Aqua Glossimer (Lèvres Scintillantes) from Summer 2016 Collection Dans la Lumière de L'Été

The best-loved Chanel gloss returns with a lighter, water-like texture for a splash of shine. I'm thrilled!

Chanel's new Aqua Glossimer (Lèvres Scintillantes) ($30), a brand new gloss on Chanel's Summer 2016 Dans la Lumière de L'Été display, is reminiscent of my old-time favorite Aqualumière Gloss. This new Aqua Glossimer is available in six new shades.

I purchased three and then came home to find that I have a fourth, Sahara - a gift from Chanel. I will have to get photos of Sahara next weekend. Today, I have photos to show you of #606, Rouge Désert; #608, Dzhari; and #612, Adenium. All of the shades are limited editions.

I took photos of the three I purchased in full, mid-day sunshine. They are shown in numerical order directly above: #606 at left, #608 in the middle, and #612 at right. I swatched them in the same order, starting with #606 at the top of my arm.

I usually select the glosses with the most pigment because I use them instead of lipstick. I love these three - one of which was a surprise. #606, Rouge Désert, is shown at the top of my arm. I describe it as a beautifully pigmented rose. Not too warm and not too cool, it's an exquisite shade for all of us. Don't pass on it because it looks orange in the tube. It's not.

The middle shade, #608, Dzhari, appears to be a very dark purple-red in the tube. On the skin and lips, it's more red than purple, and it's stunning. This is the way I can wear red!

The shade at the bottom of my arm, #612, Adenium, is less pigmented than the other two, but has enough color to give my lips a pretty pop of pink. Sahara (#610 and not pictured here) is a lovely peach shade. I promise to get Sahara photos this coming weekend, the first time we may see the sun this week. We are back in a cloud after a pretty Mother's Day.

I love the way these glosses apply evenly and without special effort. The new wand tip is shaped in such a way that you can paint the peaks of your lips with a narrow tip, while fully covering the the rest of your lips with the wider base. Apply these glosses and you'll achieve long-lasting, shining color, with or without lipstick underneath. The feel? Like a dose of your favorite lip balm. I detect no discernible fragrance.

You can purchase these beautiful Aqua Glossimers at Neiman Marcus, as I did, or at Chanel's Web site now. If they are not at your favorite Chanel counter yet, they will be soon. I called Nordstrom today to find out when they will arrive in store. I was told they had shipped and would be at the counter in 1-2 weeks.

Update 5/10: The collection arrived today at our Tysons Corner Nordstrom store. If you call there and order from Diron Carr at Chanel, he will send you a GWP.

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

The Friday Forum - Plus Guerlain's Maxi Shine Intense Color and Shine Lip Gloss

It's 8:00 pm Thursday night. I had intended to write two features: 1) a story about a gorgeous Guerlain Maxi Shine lip gloss, and 2) The Friday Forum. I have to finish by 9:00 pm because I am totally hooked by The Blacklist, a television drama for people who can think. So, I'm writing now because I have an 8:00 am meeting at work. Yikes, I feel a little overwhelmed!

I think I mentioned that Marcus Monson used this beautiful lip gloss, Guerlain Maxi Shine in #467, Cherry Swing, ($30) on the customer who sat in his chair last weekend after me. It looked gorgeous! I purchased the last one they had in stock at Neiman Marcus Tysons Galleria. I am never without a Guerlain Maxi Shine lip gloss at my side. I have at least two shades in my handbag at all times and more in my bathroom stock and in my special storage box for Guerlain products. I adore them. They look good, feel good, and complement any look. I'm a happy customer when new shades are introduced.

Here is what Guerlain says about Maxi Shine, all true...
Guarantee your lips a shimmering, radiant, and plumping finish. The oil composition creates a moisturizing barrier to ensure an intense softness. Additionally, each shade presents varying degrees of coverage and pigment intensity. The perfect partner for a desirable, appealing smile, Maxi Shine offers tailor-made effects for beautifully enhanced lips.

This Cherry Swing shade is spectacular. I am not sure why I didn't have it already. Check out the swatch photo below. It was taken in mid-day sunshine, applied directly from the tube.

This beautiful rose pink shade makes my lips sparkle - and, of course, look fuller as an extra-added benefit to the fabulous hydrating feel. The sun picked up the sparkle in this shade, which I love.

I can't count the number of compliments I have received when wearing Guerlain Maxi Shine glosses. Coral Wizz (#440) is one of my favorites. It looks more warm pink on me than coral.

Guerlain's lip glosses stand out, and the colors, when combined with my own lip color, enhance my lips - like my own lips, but better. I know that's an over-used phrase, but in this case, it's accurate. I usually wear these glosses without a lipstick underneath. They carry enough pigment that I can do that.

You can purchase Guerlain's Maxi Shine glosses wherever Guerlain makeup is sold. Or if you are an online shopper like me, you can find them at Sephora.

It's time for our Friday Forum and weekend conversation. The Friday Forum has always been an opportunity to share information. Are you using a fabulous product and want to sing its praises? Tell us about it! Did you find a beauty product disappointing? Tell us why! Do you have questions others might be able to answer? We can help! Want to talk about skin care? I'm game. Just use the comments. We have busy weekends and slow ones on the forum. I hope you are ready to share. See you in the comments.

Photos by Best Things in Beauty

Le Métier de Beauté Gift with Purchase for Neiman Marcus InCircle

I had planned to tell you today about my exciting visit with Marcus Monson at Guerlain. Then I realized that this feature about Le Métier de Beauté's Gift with Purchase (GWP) for Neiman Marcus InCircle, which starts on April 13, was time-sensitive. So, I re-ordered my features; I'll tell you about Marcus tomorrow when I get home from work.

If you spend $350 with Le Métier de Beauté, you will receive a makeup bag filled with lovely goodies.

• Fervor Moisture Matte Lipstick (appears to be full-sized) - mauve or plum
• Outré Lip Crème (full size) - a rich medium pink suited for all skin tones
• Lure Illuminating Face Powder (generous, but a tad smaller than full-sized) - gold
• Cinamatic Mascara (Le Métier de Beauté's new mascara formula) deluxe sample - black
• A surprise skin-care sample (exclusive to Neiman Marcus at Mazza Gallerie)

The bag appears to be leather, but given that it was made in China, it's probably not. As you can see in my photo, it has a zip top to keep all our makeup safely tucked inside. Plus, it's long enough to accommodate our makeup brushes.

I took swatch photos of the contents, with the exception of the surprise skin care, late this afternoon in full sun. I applied the lip products directly from the tubes, used a sponge-tipped applicator to apply the Illuminating Face Powder, and swiped the mascara across my arm. All were applied lightly. I had to take showcase my neighbor's gorgeous redbud tree, so it served as the background.

I started at the top of my arm with Fervor Moisture Matte Lipstick. Isn't the plumy-pink color gorgeous? Any shine you see on my arm was from the direct sunlight. The gloss below is Outré Lip Crème. The combination of the two is beautiful - especially for me, someone who likes shine on my lips. The addition of the Lip Crème makes my lips feel comfortably hydrated.

The Lure Illuminating Face Powder is a pretty, sparkly, subtle gold. It's perfect for a night-out highlighting powder, and it looks great on the face with the lipstick and lip gloss.

Mascara swatches are hard to do on my arm, so don't blame Le Métier de Beauté for my uneven swatch. It's black, but a soft, matte, natural-looking black. It's a perfect go-to for any time of day. I'm anxious to try the new formula.

Most GWPs are stingy - especially for a purchase of $350. You often get samples that are gone after a day's use. Le Métier de Beauté is making sure that you go home with products you can use for months. I suspect the only gift you will run out of is the mascara. It might last a week if used daily.

If you don't have a favorite Neiman Marcus Le Métier de Beauté counter, or if you want to ensure that you get the surprise exclusive to the Mazza Gallerie store, give Michael Reinhardt or Andy Schug a call. Their number is (202) 966-9700, extension 2258. Make sure to ask for one of them. Pre-sale has started, so you can call anytime starting tomorrow. The store closed for the day today at 6:00 pm. Remember that shipping is free.

Michael has also arranged some special events for InCircle, so if you are local, make sure to ask about Hylton Lea's visit next weekend, as well as facials next Sunday. Both will be by appointment. Hylton will be providing customers with his expert touch, 20-minute "facial rescue" at the counter. After your skin is "saved," Michael or Andy will be on hand to give you the finishing makeup touch for your special day or evening. It's wonderful for those of us who can't get by the store on a weekday that you can get a facial on a Sunday.

A master aesthetician, the one Michael personally uses, will provide you with a luxurious hour-long facial. She is in such demand that it has taken a year to get her booked for this event. The facial is complimentary with a purchase of two skin-care items. The facial will be wonderful opportunity to learn about Le Métier de Beauté's fabulous skin care.

Photos by Best Things in Beauty

Josie Maran Argan Infinity Lip and Cheek Creamy Oil

It's been a long time since I purchased a Josie Maran product. I think the novelty wore off, and I stopped buying. However, when I saw Argan Infinity Lip and Cheek Creamy Oil ($18) online at Sephora, I was newly intrigued, so I decided to give Josie a whirl again. I wish I hadn't.

Argan Infinity Lip and Cheek Creamy Oil is a colorful formula inspired by Josie’s bestselling argan infinity intensive creamy oil, now in tints for lips and cheeks. I purchased Limitless Pink, one of the lightest shades. It's described as medium pink. This product is made for those looking for a pop of dewy, natural color that can be used on lips and cheeks.

Described as hydrating, nourishing, and argan oil-infused, this tinted treatment "tarts as a cream and melts into an oil for a pop of natural-looking, never-greasy color. The formula is 97 percent natural and petroleum-free." Maran says it's ideal for use on all skin types and all skin tones.

“I love putting my Argan Infinity Intensive Creamy Oil on my lips and cheeks to battle dryness and keep them soft. So I thought, why not make a tinted version to add a kiss of color? I’m in love with these cute color wonders. The tint is transparent, so it looks natural, but the popping pigment brightens up lips and cheeks instantly,” said its creator, Josie Maran.

I took swatch photos in full sun, applying a tiny bit of product to my fingertip and then swirling it onto my arm. I noticed immediately that it has a texture similar to an ointment. It's heavy, like Vasoline or an ointment.

While the warm pink color you see on my arm is beautiful, it does not translate this way to my lips or cheeks. When applied to my lips, it feels like Vasoline - very heavy. I assumed the texture would guarantee some longevity to the color. Wrong! The product stayed on my lips for hours, but the pretty pink color was gone in 10 minutes. I don't understand how the color "went poof" while the underlying vehicle stayed in place. After 10 minutes, I might has well have had Vaseline on my lips.

I had an entirely different experience when I applied it to my cheeks. Limitless Pink is dark on me and very hard to blend. It dries on contact. In order to blend it, I have to mix it with moisturizer.

If I can't wear it on my lips or cheeks, I fear that I have to give a fail to Argan Infinity Lip and Cheek Creamy Oil. That's ashamed. The color on my arm is pretty, and I admire Josie Maran for her commitment to eco-friendly cosmetics.

You can purchase all of Josie Maran's products at Sephora and at her own Web site.

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

Lèvres Scintellantes Glossimer in Happy from the Reflets D'été de Chanel Summer 2014 Collection

Mix. Match. Mismatch. Bolder is better with this candy-bright collection, featuring playful shades to coordinate or clash for a sweet summer look. 

I have to admit that I got my first look at Chanel's Reflets D'été de Chanel Summer 2014 Collection weeks ago. I studied all the colors and came away with one: Lèvres Scintellantes Glossimer in Happy (#186, $29.50).

I wanted one of the five glosses that might show up on my lips. The glosses all offer transparent candy pops of color. The nail colors are pretty, but lately I haven't had the time for nail lacquer. There was an eye shadow, the limited-edition New Moon, that spoke to me, but not loudly enough for me to purchase it. Overall, I found this collection to be better for others than me.

I took photos of Happy in full, mid-day sun. You can see from the difference in color between the tube and the applicator that the tube does not represent the color well. In my swatch photos below, you'll see a very sheer candy pink.

The pigment in my lips adds some rose to the shade, but it is very transparent, like a Gummy Bear. It was one of the "darkest" colors in the collection. Happy is a cheerful color; it was perfectly named.

You can see Chanel's Summer 2014 Collection at this link. I read somewhere that the pieces in the collection were all sold out. That's not true. You can order from Chanel.

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

Guerlain Maxi Shine Gloss d’Enfer in Nahema Smack for Summer 2014

The tube of Guerlain's Maxi Shine Gloss d'Enfer in Nahema Smack (#940, $30) sings summer. It presents itself as a warm orange or coral shade that might scare anyone who don't gravitate toward orange lip colors because of our coloring. The fascinating thing about Nahema Smack is that it's not really orange on the lips. I'll show you the color; just don't ask me about its name. I have no idea what it means.

I purchased mine blind, relying on Jonathan at the Guerlain Boutique to describe the lip colors that were coming for summer and help me choose those that might work for me. Once again, Jonathan scored a perfect prediction. You are going to love him. I'll give you his phone number at the bottom of the feature. He is my go-to guy for Guerlain.

My first hint that Nahema Smack wasn't a fiery orange was on the applicator. It has much more rose on it than I was expecting. The applicator said "rosy coral."  Sure enough, that's what I saw on my arm and lips. On my lips, it is even more rose and less coral than it appears on my arm - no doubt because of the rose pigment in my lips. I think Nahema Smack may end up vying with #440 (called a coral pink shimmer) for my favorite gloss. I wear #440 every day. I think I have six of them. If Guerlain ever discontinues the shades, I may cry.

I took my photos in mid-day full sun, just as some high clouds started to roll in - perfect conditions for showing color without extra reflection from sunshine. Look at this gorgeous color! It is vibrant, saturated, and subtly shiny. The shine comes from a measured amount of micro-shimmer.

I've included three exposures here - all showing slightly different intensity of Nahema Smack's color and shine. They all came from the same swatch. Oddly, if you check out other blogs, you may find it looks bright orange. I cannot explain the difference.

No matter which photo becomes the focus of your attention, I think you'll agree with me that Nahema Smack is much prettier and more elegant - and certainly more wearable - than it appears in the tube. I love this shade!

Gloss d'Enfer Maxi Shine’s oil composition creates a moisturizing barrier to ensure an intense softness. The ergonomic applicator allows for easy lip definition, more effectively evoking the hint of a smile. Additionally, each shade presents varying degrees of coverage and pigment intensity. The perfect partner for a desirable, appealing smile, Maxi Shine offers tailor-made effects for beautifully enhanced lips.

As advertised,  Gloss d'Enfer offers lovely ladylike shimmer and feels great on the lips. It offers average wear time, with the more pigmented shades lasting longer than the very sheer ones. These glosses have a smooth and non-sticky texture and glide onto the lips like a second skin. Guerlain says we'll forget Maxi Shine is even on. I understood them when I applied the first, with the launch last spring. Composed of mineral and vegetal oils, the texture forms a protective barrier on the lips that prevents moisture from evaporating and keeps the lips soft and hydrated. My lips look extremely shiny, radiant, and even brilliant when I wear Gloss d'Enfer. This is my kind of lip gloss.

Interested? Call Jonathan at the Guerlain Boutique at in Las Vegas at (702) 732-7008. He usually works a later shift, so I find him in the late afternoon or early evening East Coast time. I love our three-hour time difference and phone shopping with him at night! Naturally, the Guerlain Summer 2014 Color Collection will arrive at all Guerlain counters - probably this month. I like shopping in Las Vegas; I save on tax and pay no shipping fees. They treat me well. How much better can it get?

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

Chanel Lèvres Scintellantes Glossimer in Bliss from Chanel's Collection Variation

Lip gloss is the makeup item I use the most often - many times per day. I make sure to purchase most new, limited-edition lip glosses from brands I like, which is how I came to own Chanel's Lèvres Scintellantes Glossimer in Bliss (#181, $29.50) - two of them. I was so excited I purchased it twice, the second time by accident.

Gorgeous shimmer and a high-shine glow is delivered effortlessly to lips with just one stroke of this best-selling lip gloss. A wide range of shades, from sheer and natural to sparkling and rich, look beautiful on their own, or over your favorite Chanel lipstick. Equally beautiful: the conditioning formula's comfort, deep hydration, and long wear.

The color is a pinky peach with an extremely subtle gold shimmer but an extraodinarily vibrant glow. I took swatch photos in full, mid-day sunshine. Even with the sun at its height for the day, Bliss glows without high-wattage shine.

Bliss is almost like a sheer lipstick. It straddles the line between sheer and opaque, providing enough color to be worn alone as a lipstick. The color is a luscious peach - almost juicy.

Bliss won't take a bad photo. It's a beautiful shade that anyone can wear. It offers slightly better than average wear and a nice, hydrating Chanel texture. I'm glad I bought two.

You can purchase Chanel Lèvres Scintellantes Glossimer in Bliss at Chanel's Web site, where you can see a short glamour film about Lèvres Scintellantes.

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

Chanel Aqualumière Gloss in Eau de Rose and Pink Pivoine from the Jardin de Camélias Collection

I went back to the well at Chanel, ordering a few things from the Jardin de Camélias Collection that I had not ordered on my first round. These two beautiful Aqualumière Glosses (29.50), Eau de Rose (#86) and Pink Pivoine (#88) - both shades are limited editions - have been here for what sees like forever waiting for a sunny day when I was home to take their photos. I believe I can finally say goodbye to winter and hello to spring and more frequent sunshine.

Eau de Rose shines on the left in my photo above; Pink Pivoine is shown on the right. All the photos in this feature were taken in full, mid-day sun.

Brush on the exquisite, water-light look of Aqualumière, an ingenious lip gloss, and discover perfect comfort with a sheer wash of color. Chanel has brought back Aqualumière, which was always, in my opinion, a must-have for every lip gloss lover. The mirror-like shine gives the lips a fuller, more sensual look with the precision and ease of an excellent built-in brush applicator.

I had to show off Eau de Rose in front of my blooming star magnolia. The shade surprised me. When I looked at its photo on Chanel.com, I really expected a totally colorless gloss. It offers an icy pink color that looks best, I think, over another lip color. When I wear it alone, I see more of my own lip color, brightened with a hint of pink and a beacon of iridescent shine. The pink makes my eyes pop blue.

Pink Pivoine, though subtly shiny, offers less shine and does not have the iridescence of Eau de Rose. It gives the lips a lot more color. I would describe it as a transparent watermelon rose - in other words, a gorgeous pink.

I'm glad I went back to the well. I love Aqualumière Gloss, and I know I'll get a lot of wear from these two shades. They feel great on my lips and provide average wear. One - I haven't decided which yet - is going in the makeup bag I lug around with me.

The Jardin de Camélias Collection is exclusive to Chanel online, and these are both limited-edition shades - so far. I think they are worth a purchase if you look pretty in pink. They are still available.

Photos by Best Things in Beauty

Shiseido Lacquer Gloss

Shiseido's new Lacquer Gloss was inspired by traditional Japanese transparent lacquer. This unique formula has a three-layer structure that refines lip texture, adheres to the lips with vivid color, and coats the lips with all-day moisture. This gloss also features an applicator that fits the lips perfectly, allowing you to draw an even lip line with no streaks.

Available in eight shades, Lacquer Gloss ($25) was in short supply at Sephora when I went to purchase it a few weeks ago. I ended up ordering two from Shiseido's Web site. Advertised as rich, with a deep sheen and vivid clear color reminiscent of the beloved Japanese art form, it called to me. I purchased OR303 (In the Flesh, shown at right below) and PK 304 (Baby Doll, shown at left).

I took my swatch photos in full sun, showing In the Flesh at the top of my arm, with Baby Doll below. The lip lacquers were much more transparent than I had expected - and that delighted me. I had expected more opaque color. I would not describe the color of these two shades as vivid.

As I took photos, In the Flesh started to move toward the equator - a common problem when photographing glosses. My top swatch in the photo below is uneven, but still portrays the color accurately.

As I looked at these two shades when I swatched them (blind purchase), I realized they were extremely similar. Both are warm pinks, with In the Flesh having slightly more coral in its color. It won't be a hard choice to keep one in my bathroom and throw one in my handbag. They are almost interchangeable.

On the lips, the glosses are sheer and shiny. The have a medium "feel," meaning I can feel them on my lips, but I wouldn't call them heavy. They have a very subtle taste/smell that dissipates almost instantly, making it barely worth mentioning. They offer slightly better than average wear time.

As usual, Shiseido has launched a color product worth a look-see. The price is right. I'm going to look at RS 306 Plum Wine in person. It may be my next purchase.

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

Urban Decay New Ultra Nourishing Lipgloss

Yes, it snowed again. Sadly, this snow claimed a victim, the husband of a Facebook friend - someone I like and respect. I have learned that he was shoveling snow, just like the rest of us this morning, when he had a heart attack. It sure was a reminder to me to live every day as if it were your last. You never know.

I realize after that intro, it seems trivial to talk about lip gloss. I had a hard time working up the spirit to write this feature, so I'll dedicate it to Kathleen.

Urban Decay, trading off their Naked franchise, recently introduced a new, permanent lip gloss in nine luxurious shades. A gloss and a rich lip balm in one, this super-nourishing gloss has an addictive, creamy texture and a gorgeous, high-shine finish. Perfect for complementing the always-popular Urban Decay smoky eye, the Naked Ultra Nourishing Lipgloss ($20) feels so luxe that you’ll want to keep applying it all day. The makeup junkies at Urban Decay painstakingly crafted this formula, obsessing over every last detail until it was just right. Laced with ingredients that are good for your skin, the formula includes Hyaluronic Filling Spheres, vitamin E, avocado oil, and shea butter to hydrate and condition lips. Rosehip seed oil provides an extra hit of vitamins, including vitamins A and C.

In a clinical study of 30 participants who used Naked Ultra Nourishing Lipgloss, these results were reported immediately after use.

• 86% of participants had a significant improvement in the appearance of lines and wrinkles.
• 76% had a significant improvement in volume and hydration.
• 86% said their lips felt nourished.

You may ask me, "Why should I care if participants felt that way immediately after application?" The only answer I can give is that you get a nice jolt of moisture when you use Ultra Nourishing Lipgloss.

The bottle features a pretty, highly metalized champagne cap and overshell with a cool “Naked” cutout effect. As pretty as it is, it’s also practical. You can see the shade through the “Naked” cutout and the little window at the bottom (so it’s easy to spot the right shade in your bag). The extra long, flocked paddle applicator also picks up a generous amount of gloss for even color. It has a slightly curved or upward arc to it, which seems to cover the lips in one swoop.

I purchased two shades from Urban Decay: Liar and Naked. Liar is shown in my photo on the left, with Naked on the right. I took photos in full sun. My swatches were taken at the same time. Liar is shown at the top of my arm, and Naked is shown below.

Both are very light. Liar has more color than Naked, which makes sense. Both are sheer and shiny. Liar, described oddly as a mauve pink, is my favorite, mostly because Naked disappears on my lips.

Naked is described as a nude pink with pink pearly. You can see the glistening pearls in my photos. They add a generous sparkle to the otherwise nude color. Now that I have seen these two, I will not fear ordering the darkest shade, Beso, described as a deep mauve-pink. However, I took a look at Temptalia's swatches, and I saw little difference among the new shades on Christine's lips. I'm not sure I need more than two of these lovelies.

Liar and Naked offer average wear. Although they are supposedly scented with a light mint, I can't taste anything. Because of my sinus infection? Who knows? Generally, I dislike mint tastes in my lip products, so whatever exists in this one is very light to evade my attention.

You can find these Ultra Nourishing Lipgloss at Sephora and Urban Decay. Sephora appears to offer one shade you can't order at Urban Decay.

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

Chanel Aqualumière Gloss High Shine Sheer Concentrate in Rosace and Baie Rose from the Jardin de Camélias Collection

Brush on the exquisite, water-light look of this ingenious lip gloss and discover perfect comfort in a sheer wash of color. Making this a must-have for every lip gloss lover, a mirror-like shine gives lips a fuller, more sensual look. Plus, there's the precision and ease of the built-in brush applicator. Aqualumière: my long-time love is back in the line-up for spring.

The photo above shows the two I purchased: Rosace (#87) on the left and the limited edition Baie Rose (#$89) on the right. I skipped Eau de Rose (too light) and Pink Pivoine (I'd love to have it, but I was trying to be frugal). I think I chose well. Check out the swatch photos below. You'll see two gorgeous glosses that offer color and super-shine.

It's clear that I took my photos in full sun. Rosace is shown at the top of my arm. Baie Rose is shown at the bottom. Both colors are perfect shades for any time of year (in my book), but they are especially on trend for this spring, with its pink and peach themes across the industry.

My love affair with Chanel's Aqualumière Gloss goes way back - further than I plan to admit. While I love all the new formulas, I have soft spots in my heart for the glosses that I wore every day, day after day, year after year. Aqualumière is one of them. When the Aqualumière glosses were discontinued and replaced, some say with Rouge Coco Shine, I mourned. I adore Rouge Coco Shine, but it's not the same. It's more lipstick than lip gloss.

If you didn't pick up the Aqualumière habit "in the old days," now is your chance. There are four shades from which to choose in Chanel's Jardin de Camélias Collection. While I wrote, I talked myself into buying the other two - even if one is too light. I'm getting nostalgic. As soon as I publish this feature, I'll be online buying two more glosses. Sigh!

Aqualumière Gloss High Shine Sheer Concentrate in Rosace and Baie Rose are exclusive to the Jardin de Camélias Collection at Chanel online. I have one more beauty from the collection to show you - soon, I promise.

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

New YSL Gloss Volupté

Yves Saint Laurent premieres the first lightweight non-sticky lip gloss. A precious liquid, light yet intensely glossy, its ethereal texture is a celebration of pleasure that invites indulgence. “Bouche a Bouche,” the applicator, envelops the lips with this elixir of seduction. In a breath of life, lips are filled with a reflective and radiant color. Golden, Iridescent or Pure…Beautiful. To die for. Encapsulated in a divine jewel, this lip gloss attracts like an irresistible magnet.  

That's pretty high praise YSL wrote to publicize its newest lip gloss, Gloss Volupté - over the top, actually. So I set out to find this latest wonder-gloss and see if it really is the paragon of lip glosses.

The new Gloss Volupté is available in 10 sparkling golden shades, four iridescent shades, and nine "pure" crystal effect shades. Enlarge the photo above by clicking on it. All 23 of the shades are called base shades. Additionally, there are three top coats: #1 Gold (golden radiance); #201 Pure for enhanced shine; and the limited-edition #209, Smoking, for a day-to-night look.

The Light Kiss System is said to instantly transform the texture of your lips on contact (you can't make this stuff up). The gloss leaves an ultra-slim, non-sticky film on the lips (truth). Offering balm-like care, it's said to be 10 times more unctuous than a classical lip gloss.

The unique applicator has a hole in it, as you can see above. It is said to have 3D curves for an intuitive application, a fine tip for precision, and a supple and flexible core for a sensory application. The pout heart along the edge is said to allow for even distribution of the gloss along your lips. For full lips, the enveloping inside 3D curve is perfect for a full and voluptuous lip. For finer lips, the distinct outside 3D curve allows for precision. I'm having trouble typing this with a straight face.

The gloss colors are gorgeous. I purchased two at Neiman Marcus. The photo above is dark. I had to take it in bright overcast conditions. At least the sun came out later - enough for me to take swatch photos. Number 4, Fuchsia Vermeil, a golden shade, is shown above at left; #102, Rose Satine, an iridescent shade is shown on the right. I wanted one pink and one peach shade. The display was overwhelming - so many shades! As I tested the testers on my hand and arm, I was looking for pigmentation.

Many of the shades were very sheer, but I managed to find two that have nice pigmentation. I will be able to wear them without lipstick underneath.

Why are my swatches so uneven? It's that bizarre wand. Just look at my photo of the wand below. It looks like Charlie chewed on it. It has a weird, bent shape, which adds nothing to the ease of application or its precision in my opinion.

Let's look beyond the hyperbole in the marketing copy and the bizarre wand and talk about the new colors. I really love them, particularly Rose Satine - the peach one.

I think these two colors are gorgeous. They feel good on the lips. They apply just fine, but no better than other glosses with more traditional wands.  They offer average lasting power and lots of pretty shine. I could have easily selected more shades. The range is phenomenal.

Be aware that Gloss Volupté has a noticeable taste. I could do without the taste. Unfortunately, it sticks around too long.

It's time to conclude this feature. In the past, YSL's glosses have taken their place among my favorites. It remains to be seen whether the new Gloss Volupté will earn such a coveted spot. I'm reserving judgement until I have more experience with them.

Photos courtesy of YSL and by Best Things in Beauty