Mini Review: Anastasia Lip Velvets
Mini reviews are something I’m hoping to share more on the blog. They can range from beauty products to wardrobe and fashion pieces I’m currently loving. A lot of the times, I find myself procrastinating as I’m waiting till I have a great story with a few products to bundle together into a more wholesome post, however there are always little things I’m loving that unknowingly add so much value to my daily life and bring me such joy that I’d love to share with you, well – in the moment.
(Disclaimer: This article is purely a labour of love with the intention of sharing some of my favourite products, and so I will not be receiving any commission from the below-mentioned brands)
I’ve been using the Anastasia lip velvets for about a month now and just this morning posted this little video of me trying on three beautiful colours. I’ve seen swatches by my favourite beauty influencers, especially those who are somewhat tanned like me – and the colours look amazing, so I of course, ran to Sephora before they’re sold out.
The colours
The full range comes in six nude and natural shades (all linked) – Crush, Kiss, Parchment, Peach Amber, Peachy Nude and Pure Hollywood.
I found Kiss and Peachy Nude too light on my skin, adding a layer of dullness instead of colour. Crush and Pure Hollywood on the other hand were the perfect shade of nude that complemented my light brown/ olive skin colour – one with a coral undertone and the latter, the prettiest hue of dusty rose (which has very quickly risen to my top five lipsticks of all time). I used them throughout the Lunar New Year celebrations as well as to lunches with friends and received such wonderful compliments about how they brightened up my face.
Parchment is a new addition that I’m hoping to use for upcoming dinners (I have quite a few) over the course of the next few weeks as the hints of dark brown + burgundy feel like the perfect fit for night time.
Editor’s Note:
Shopping tip – Always try one or two products from a beauty range before deciding to splurge. I know its tempting but makeup these days cost a fortune, thus making it even more important to shop responsibly (not kidding, each one of these lip velvets is the total of a week’s lunch money). Plus you never know if a product can be incompatible with your skin and lead to reactions. I once purchased a hefty colour corrector that caused breakouts around my lips. My advice is to take your time and only invest in things you really love and can see yourself using for a long time.
The texture & finish
True to its name, these Anastasia Lip Velvet’s have a velvety texture that is hydrating, cushiony, moist and weightless while still being fully pigmented, and long lasting just like her older sister – the matte lipstick, without drying out your lips. I personally am not a fan of lip gloss as I do prefer a powdery matte finish however if it is your thing, go ahead and layer a lip gloss right over it. It does help though that I apply my Gisou – Honey Infused Lip Oil every night before bed so I usually already wake up with moisturized lips.
I’ve always gravitated towards natural makeup looks – at times I may go a little darker and throw in some glitter and sparkles, however its always either a coral or rosy look – years ago I experimented with the bold red lip during my trip to Italy in 2017, but since then – never again (they say never say never, but oh well…at least not for now).
I find that natural tones complement my features so well and reflects my personality and how I want to be perceived a lot better. I do love pops of bold colours every now and then, but still prefer a subtle approach through accessorising with jewellery and shoes instead. Can you relate?
How I layer my lipsticks
Here’s a side note that wasn’t included in my IG post – the trick to getting the perfect lip is to layer. I almost never have only one lipstick on at any given time. It usually is a mix of a lip liner underneath + a darker shade at the centre of my lips. My favourites to layer are Nudestix in Burgundy & Tom Ford in Steel Magnolia.
I hope this mini review has been helpful. Let me know what other products you’d like me to review or if there are makeup and skin concerns you’d like me to address. I’ve tried so many beauty products throughout my twenties (I still am) and I’d love to share as much as I can on the blog.
Until next time,
xx alyia