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| Above: Dolce and Gabbana lip color is enshrined in a square metal gold case. |
When Dolce and Gabbana debuted a beauty line a couple years ago, I was thrilled...the luxe gold packaging, wide range of shades and exclusivity fueled my pursuit of D & G foundation, lipgloss and eyeliner a plenty. Recently, I picked up the Classic Cream Lipstick in Mandorla, a creamy nude pink (surprise!) that has pleasantly exceeded my expectations.
Retailing for $32, Mandorla, as well as the rest of the Dolce and Gabbana line, can now be purchased online at Sephora, which is where I purchased mine. I couldn't find the full list of ingredients anywhere online so I have typed them up (directly from the box) for your convenience (phew!):
Ingredients:
Octyldodecanol, polybutene, diisosteryl malate, polythylene, hydrogenated C6-20 Polyolefin, cera microcristallina/microcrystalline wax, caprylic/capric triglyceride, stearalkonium bentonite, mica, propylene carbonate, dicalcium phosphate, pentaerythrityl tetra-di-t-butyl hydroxyhydrocinnamate, phenoxyethanol, parfum/fragrance, alpha-isomethyl ionone, benzyl benzoate, hydroxycitronellal, aqua/water, lauryl methacrylate/glycol dimethcrylate crosspolymer, glycerin, dicaprylyl ether, titanium dioxide, pisum sativum (pea) extract, algae extract, cassia angustifolia seed, polysaccharide, gellan gum, wxanthan gum, polyglyceryl-2 dipolyhydroxysterate, sorbic acid, sodium citrate. May contain: Iron oxides, carmine, red 6 lake, red 7 lake, red 30 lake, red 28 lake, yellow 5 lake, yellow 6 lake, blue 1 lake.
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| Above: As is the case with all Dolce and Gabbana lipsticks, the bullet is embossed with a very chic DG insignia. |
Here is the official word from Sephora on this lipstick...
A cream lipstick for sublimely sensual lips.
What it does:
The Classic Cream Lipstick's luxurious formulation provides bold color that is both provocative and disarming. With smoothness that exudes sensuality, this truly sublime lipstick glides along the lips with a moisturizing, color-consistent application. Each shade is as rich and passionate as it is feminine.
What else you need to know:
"Apply lip color then blot with a tissue after application to help set the color. Then, reapply lipstick. The result is a significantly more intense color effect. It's a great method to use when you want to draw attention to the lips." —Pat McGrath, Global Creative Advisor
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| Above: Mandorla is actually a bit darker in the tube then when swatched on the skin or lips. |
Mandorla is extremely pigmented. It is has a perfect blend of beige and pink and gives full opacity with a single swipe. For reference, it is lighter than LMdB San Tropez (to be reviewed soon!) and darker than Tom Ford Nude Vanille. The texture is very creamy, but it feels a bit matte upon application. I haven't noticed any inordinate dehydration from this lip color, but it isn't what I would deem excessively moisturizing either. Overall, it is most comparable in moisture level to the Tom Ford lip color (which I happen to love).
It is lightly fragranced (it leans more floral than candy) and has a slightly sweet taste, which was a pleasant surprise. This lipstick does not migrate and the wear time is 3-4 hours without need for application...both of these realities are a definite plus in my book!
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| Above: Note how Mandorla looks significantly darker in the tube than when swatched on my wrist. |
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| Above: Mandorla alone on the lips...this is befitting shade for lighter beige skin--NC20/25--as mine is in the winter. |
Bottom Line: Dolce and Gabbana Mandorla is a perfect nude...the quintessential balance of peach, beige and pink, full coverage, long lasting and non-drying. I wasn't sure if there was room for another nude in my life (who was I kidding?) but Mandorla is a uniquely wonderful addition to my pale lip color stash. Highly recommended!