Westman Atelier launched their first lipstick formula called the Lip Suede Matte Lipstick ($50 each) and I could not have been more excited to try them. They’re currently available at Westman Atelier for an exclusive early launch. According to their Instagram they will be launching at other retailers like Sephora and Nordstrom starting the 19th of March.
The Lip Suede Matte Lipsticks are cased in a twist up glossy tube with a magnetic closure. The packaging is beautiful but the magnetic feature makes these difficult to store next to each other (same as the issue I have with the Baby Cheeks). Based on a poll I did most of you store these alternating (one right side up, one upside down, etc.) if you own more than one shade.
I think the packaging is beautiful (magnet issue aside) but I received dozens of messages from you about the packaging being bulky and unflattering. I love the unique look but can see how many find it too big. The ratio of product to packaging does seem excessive but I also see how it fits in with the brand aesthetic.
The Lip Suede Matte Lipstick formula is a lightweight cushiony matte which feels more like a satin. I like that it’s a soft matte. They’re smooth and glide on flawlessly. On me they are one swipe wonders although I give them a couple swipes back and forth to cover the entire lip evenly.
Formula is a classic lipstick – I don’t find it hydrating but I don’t find them drying either. There’s a very soft scent to them, almost vanilla-like and almost crayon-like but I have to smell them really closely to detect the scent. On my lips I don’t notice anything.
Lasting power is ok. They stay put as long as I don’t touch my lips to anything but they’re not transfer proof. They do start to look a little dry on the lips after several hours due to the matte texture.
Below swatches of the five shades I hauled:
- Lacker is a light muted peachy color
- Pique is a taupe rose
- Minx is a bright warm pink
- Je Reve is a pretty mauve rose
- Rue is a cool chestnut brown
Looks also wearing:
Overall I have mixed feelings. I love the colors except for Rue which looks like death on me. Formula is really good for a matte but I still prefer Pat McGrath, Lisa Eldridge or Charlotte Tilbury for their matte lipstick formulas by far. At $50 a pop I don’t know that I would say they’re worth the splurge. It seems incredibly steep for what you get. That being said it seems like the prices of everything have gone up to insane levels. I do like these a lot more than the Hourglass mattes I reviewed a few weeks ago but I don’t think I’d call these a must-have.
If you’re curious about these and like matte lipsticks I would say maybe wait until the Sephora savings event which will bring the price point down if you’re a Beauty Insider.
Available now at Westman Atelier. Launching at Nordstrom, Sephora etc. starting mid March.
