Clarins Joli Rouge & Black

I love an ombre lip but I’m not sure how well these gradation lipsticks from Clarins work. The theory is that the lighter shade gives a brighter aspect to the central lip area and contrasts with the deeper shade for the outer area. It’s a very specific and statement look that when it works, is simply lovely, if statement. I’ve tried all three shades and the one that is the most dramatic is the Plum Gradation – it’s the one that gives the strongest ombre look.

Clarins Joli Rouge & Black

The problem is the juiciness of the lipstick formulation – because it’s very soft and balmy, the central, lighter part of the look doesn’t last particularly well. The minute you ‘mwah’ your lips, the effect is diminished. However, on the plus, the shades are gorgeous and the worst that can happen is that you have no ombre effect but a very nice lipstick.

Clarins Joli Rouge & Black

Shades are: Coral Gradation, Red Gradation and Plum Gradation. The latter, in particular, isn’t well represented by the swatch because once you have the deeper lip pigment behind it, it’s a dark, juicy and striking plum colour. Lovely for winter vampy glam. They’re £22 each and launch on 26th August.

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