The iconic fashion house Hermès recently waded into the beauty scene with its first lipstick launch. The 24-shade collection comes with three limited edition shades, which will update every six months. News of the release predictably sent the FOMO set into a frenzy, desperate to snap up any color in the quest to be first with more bragging rights than practical knowledge. To make matters worse, a select number of stores have listed the lipsticks online to purchase, but there is no available ship date. The reality is that with the exception of the three limited colors (two of which have comparable permanent counterparts) – this collection isn’t going anywhere – so there’s no need to lose your collective (fill in the appropriate profanity) and end up with a color or formula that you may or may not use in real life.

THE COLLECTION:

The formulas come in two primary options: satin and matte. There is also a clear lip balm, and a balm in Poppy orange. All of the permanent lipsticks and balms retail for $67. The limited colors for this first launch (a bright cool pink, a bright pink-based coral, and a dark violet-based berry) retail for $72. The lipsticks are refillable (refills will be released at a later date.

To replace the bullet, twist the center piece counter-clockwise until you feel it release, and then pull it out of the base). The rest of the collection includes a lip brush, a universal (clear) lip pencil, and two collectible lipstick cases.

FORMULATION:

All of the formulas are hydrating, including the mattes. The satin formula  packs a pigment punch, the mattes even more so.

The satin formula will need a refresh after dinner and drinks, or perhaps a workout. The matte formula is extremely lightweight and is the longest lasting. The shine formula behaves like a typical balm and keeps lips hydrated for hours without need for reapplication. Poppy shine contains silver particles in a sheer red-based coral shade. When it fades you are left with a distinctly sparkly lip, so be aware. We found it best to blend it with a touch of #33 in the satin formula for superb staying power and a gorgeous pout to boot.

SCENT:

The scent varies between formulations and sometimes even between colors. We’re not sure if this is a batch issue or something to be expected with all future launches. The scent ranges from mildly fruity, to the faint standard scent of vanilla (reminiscent of MAC), to a rather unpleasant play-doh smell in some of the satin colors (it seems most prominent in #33). The good news is, the scent fades on all of the formulas within about 60 seconds of application.

COLORS:

The best part about this collection is that there is a color for just about every skin tone and undertone. There are varying shades of nude, orange, pink and red. The shade display on the company website is pretty accurate, and can give you a good idea about what color will work best for you. So do your research, take your time, and pick a color that will help you love and appreciate the effort that went into a beauty launch with the potential to become as iconic as its namesake.