REVIEW: shu uemura Laque Supreme – BG04, RD05, PK05, CR03 & WN05

Hello everyone!

The matte lip trend has enjoyed a resurgence and much longevity over the past few years. But as the Spice Girls sang in their hit song, “Too much of something is bad enough,” and if you’re already sick of the wrinkly and shrunken lips effect, shu uemura has gotchu. The brand recently (okay, like 8 months ago..) expanded its Laque Supreme line with 11 new shades (adding to their 5 most-coveted existing shades), as well as a packaging makeover! Even before trying the product, the ombré packaging had already struck a chord with me. Look how pretty it is!

shu uemura Laque Supreme

shu uemura Laque Supreme

shu uemura Laque Supreme

shu uemura Laque Supreme

Debuted in 2015, this long-lasting liquid formula delivers an intense shot of pigment and high shine of a gloss – thanks to a new special technology* embedded in it – with a fruity scent whilst keeping lips hydrated and shiny throughout the wear. Since it doesn’t dry down completely, the product is bound to transfer. But to what extent was the question.

Shades available in Singapore: RD01, RD05, WN03, WN04, WN05, CR01, CR02, CR03, PK04, PK05, PK06, PK07, BG02, BG04, BG05 & OR01.

Now boasting a total of 16 captivating shades ranging from iconic lacquer-red to better-than-bare nude that are sure to flatter Asian skin tones, these shades were selected by defining the colours that are most beautiful for shine and that allow the lips to become the focus of the face. That said, perhaps what didn’t really change was the ergonomic-shaped applicator affixed to the cap. Ideally-sized for our delicate Asian pouts, the applicator is absolutely perfect for drawing precise lines especially along the cupid’s bow!

*Shu red-dye complex, a mixture of red dye and red pigment is added to achieve deep color intensity

Below are five of the latest additions to the Laque Supreme line (courtesy of shu uemura Singapore) together with my honest opinion about them, as always!

BG04

shu uemura Laque Supreme in BG04 (US$31 / S$43)

shu uemura Laque Supreme in BG04 (US$31 / S$43)

shu uemura Laque Supreme in BG04

shu uemura Laque Supreme in BG04

shu uemura Laque Supreme in BG04

shu uemura Laque Supreme in BG04

shu uemura Laque Supreme in BG04

shu uemura Laque Supreme in BG04

shu uemura Laque Supreme in BG04

shu uemura Laque Supreme in BG04

shu uemura Laque Supreme in BG04

shu uemura Laque Supreme in BG04

shu uemura Laque Supreme in BG04

shu uemura Laque Supreme in BG04

shu uemura Laque Supreme in BG04

shu uemura Laque Supreme in BG04

BG04 is a medium dusty rose with brown undertones and a glossy finish. Although hydrating and causes zero feathering, it has sticky (as with the every other shades in the Laque Supreme line, but this somehow felt a lot more tackier) and thick consistency which weighed down my lips a bit. Sheer on first pass, it took about two to three layers for it to become reasonably pigmented. If you’re patient enough, it can also be built to a medium coverage by waiting for the previous layers to dry before applying the next coat.

This shade is lovely but pity about the below-par longevity on the pout – it vanished completely (without leaving any stain) with only a light pat of tissue paper on the lips after my dinner. With hindsight, that can be a good thing because you won’t get that awful ring-around-the-mouth look. But whatever it is, don’t ever wear this shade to a buffet because reapplication will be a bitch!

RD05

shu uemura Laque Supreme in RD05 (US$31 / S$43)

shu uemura Laque Supreme in RD05 (US$31 / S$43)

shu uemura Laque Supreme in RD05

shu uemura Laque Supreme in RD05

shu uemura Laque Supreme in RD05

shu uemura Laque Supreme in RD05

shu uemura Laque Supreme in RD05

shu uemura Laque Supreme in RD05

shu uemura Laque Supreme in RD05

shu uemura Laque Supreme in RD05

shu uemura Laque Supreme in RD05

shu uemura Laque Supreme in RD05

shu uemura Laque Supreme in RD05

shu uemura Laque Supreme in RD05

shu uemura Laque Supreme in RD05

shu uemura Laque Supreme in RD05

RD05 is a vivid red with blue undertones and a glossy finish. The applicator picked up a lot of product from the tube and glided on the lips smoothly without tugging to deliver a semi-sheer colour that was buildable to medium-to-full coverage (by employing the same technique mentioned above). This shade appears a lot more pigmented and even in texture than the others, and has the ability to blur out any dried specks of skin or imperfections on the lips while enabling crisp edges. Truly long-lasting, it faded to a stain after a heavy meal.

PK05

shu uemura Laque Supreme in PK05 (US$31 / S$43)

shu uemura Laque Supreme in PK05 (US$31 / S$43)

shu uemura Laque Supreme in PK05

shu uemura Laque Supreme in PK05

shu uemura Laque Supreme in PK05

shu uemura Laque Supreme in PK05

shu uemura Laque Supreme in PK05

shu uemura Laque Supreme in PK05

shu uemura Laque Supreme in PK05

shu uemura Laque Supreme in PK05

shu uemura Laque Supreme in PK05

shu uemura Laque Supreme in PK05

shu uemura Laque Supreme in PK05

shu uemura Laque Supreme in PK05

shu uemura Laque Supreme in PK05

shu uemura Laque Supreme in PK05

PK05 is a cool fuchsia with slight berry undertones and a glossy finish. Despite its sheer payoff, it yields an even consistency and does not leave streaks of distinct pigment on the lips when more than one coat is applied back-to-back. Apart from that, it is also buildable to a medium coverage. It clung onto dry patches and hence, accentuated some of the flaws on my lips but felt moderately hydrating on me. This shade faded to a stain after a heavy meal.

CR03

shu uemura Laque Supreme in CR03 (US$31 / S$43)

shu uemura Laque Supreme in CR03 (US$31 / S$43)

shu uemura Laque Supreme in CR03

shu uemura Laque Supreme in CR03

shu uemura Laque Supreme in CR03

shu uemura Laque Supreme in CR03

shu uemura Laque Supreme in CR03

shu uemura Laque Supreme in CR03

shu uemura Laque Supreme in CR03

shu uemura Laque Supreme in CR03

shu uemura Laque Supreme in CR03

shu uemura Laque Supreme in CR03

shu uemura Laque Supreme in CR03

shu uemura Laque Supreme in CR03

shu uemura Laque Supreme in CR03

shu uemura Laque Supreme in CR03

CR03 is a medium coral with red undertones and a glossy finish. Runnier in consistency, this shade yields a sheer coverage which seems promisingly pigmented initially until it is spread out – the colour loses most its intensity and blends into the lips (but without bleeding or settling into the lines). Therefore, those with naturally pigmented lips should stay away from this shade because the colour will most likely not show on yours. Although adding more coats (atop those that have dried a bit) does help to build its opacity to a certain extent, the result ends up appearing messy and streaky. This shade leaves a very subtle stain on my lips after my dinner and was moderately hydrating on me.

WN05

shu uemura Laque Supreme in WN05 (US$31 / S$43)

shu uemura Laque Supreme in WN05 (US$31 / S$43)

shu uemura Laque Supreme in WN05

shu uemura Laque Supreme in WN05

shu uemura Laque Supreme in WN05

shu uemura Laque Supreme in WN05

shu uemura Laque Supreme in WN05

shu uemura Laque Supreme in WN05

shu uemura Laque Supreme in WN05

shu uemura Laque Supreme in WN05

shu uemura Laque Supreme in WN05

shu uemura Laque Supreme in WN05

shu uemura Laque Supreme in WN05

shu uemura Laque Supreme in WN05

shu uemura Laque Supreme in WN05

shu uemura Laque Supreme in WN05

WN05 is a warm burgundy with a glossy finish and is by far, the most disappointing one from this range probably because I had such high hopes for it! The texture is almost like CR03 but worse – clings onto dry areas and delivers a very patchy and uneven application which intensifies once it dries because some parts would appear visibly darker than the rest. The first two passes yield a sheer, just-bitten effect, but is once again buildable to a medium coverage if you don’t layer on too quickly.

Among the five shades here, WN05 leaves the most noticeable stain (and therefore is the most long-lasting), so much so that it took me a couple of washes (or rather, scrubs) for it to be removed entirely.

Longevity test - all shades except CR03 and BG04 withstood the wrath of my Simple makeup wipe

Longevity test – all shades except CR03 and BG04 withstood the wrath of my Simple makeup wipe

[Under natural lighting] I don't own many glosses, so I'll do a finish comparison instead with other brands

[Under natural lighting] I don’t own many glosses, so I’ll do a finish comparison instead with other brands

In general, the Laque Supreme line is definitely a few notches above regular glosses due to the moisturising effects, more intense pigmentation (mainly the lighter shades) and higher longevity it (mostly the darker shades) offers. Even though the texture is still too tacky for my liking, it adheres well to the lips so when hair gets stuck in it, it doesn’t drag any product over my face. And I believe that is a major bonus for anyone – like me – who shuns lip glosses. I think so long as nothing comes in contact with the lips, these are still pretty much low maintenance.

What are your thoughts about the Laque Supreme line? If you have been avoiding lip glosses, would you be keen to give this a shot? Let me know what you think in the comments below or take a quick poll!

Thanks for reading!

shu uemura Laque Supreme is now available on shuuemura.com.sg, shuuemura-USA.com and in all local shu uemura outlets.
Products were supplied by shu uemura Singapore for my consideration but all opinions expressed are my own.

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REVIEW: shu uemura × Yazbukey Lipsticks – Yaz Red (RD1), Coral Dance (NUDY1), Rose Flows (PK2) & Magenta Spell (RD2) + Magic Metallic Lip Liner in Gold WOW

Hello everyone!

Just as we thought the matte lip trend was losing steam, shu uemura offers a timely reminder why colour-rich matte lipsticks are still on-trend in many ways with an expansion (albeit temporary) of its Rouge Unlimited Supreme Matte line this spring. This time, it has even roped in the expertise of a familiar name to pimp up the packaging of these new (and not-so-new) additions to make them a little more special.

Yazbukey for shu uemura, Spring 2018

Yazbukey for shu uemura, Spring 2018

Following the tremendous reception to its first collaboration with Yazbukey in 2015, shu uemura has teamed up with the Paris-based accessory and jewelry designer yet again for this first ever lip-focused makeup range – the Mattitude collection – in which a total of 16 lipstick shades comprising 9 new limited editions and 7 existing bestsellers (shades may vary in the U.S.; full list in poll below) would each be accessorised with one of the 4 variations of her iconic “c’est ahh lips” specially designed for this partnership on the packaging.

The display

The display

Sea of lipsticks~

Sea of lipsticks~

Featuring across the 4 colour ranges expressing the 4 different attitudes (Sexy Red, Lovely Nude, Quirky Pink and Edgy Berry) in this collection, the lip motifs are a nod towards Yazbukey’s quirky and kooky sense of style which combines pop references with modern culture and contemporary art. The silicon lip rings*, which can be fitted into the coloured lipstick tube for an added aesthetic appeal (or simply worn on the finger to show the world how much of a lipstick addict you are), instantly transform shu uemura’s signature lipsticks into the most edgy chic statement pieces imaginable.

*Receive one limited edition Yazbukey × shu uemura silicon lip ring with purchase of any 2 pieces of Rouge Unlimited Supreme Matte lipsticks at TANGS.com. While stocks last.

To celebrate the release of the Mattitude collection, shu uemura hosted a launch party at Horse’s Mouth Bar for select members of the media. While there, I was able to get a complete swatch of everything, as well as to take home four lipsticks (one from each range) to do a detailed review on. Take a look:

Sexy Reds

Sexy Reds

Swatched: Carmen Bound, Tangerine Bloom (accidentally swatched this twice), Ruby Heart. Not in picture: Yaz Red (scroll down to the review for swatches)

Swatched: Carmen Bound, Tangerine Bloom (accidentally swatched this twice), Ruby Heart. Not in picture: Yaz Red (scroll down to the review for swatches)

Lovely Nudes

Lovely Nudes

Swatched: Coral Dance, Brown is Brown, Choco Crush, Sandy Quartz

Swatched: Coral Dance, Brown is Brown, Choco Crush, Sandy Quartz

Quirky Pinks

Quirky Pinks

Swatched: Rose Flows, Truly Ruby, Cyclamen Sound, Eclair Pink

Swatched: Rose Flows, Truly Ruby, Cyclamen Sound, Eclair Pink

Edgy Berries

Edgy Berries

Swatched: Magenta Spell, Currant Mood, Powder Blue, Grape Jam

Swatched: Magenta Spell, Currant Mood, Powder Blue, Grape Jam

A lil pouch to go along with the lippies!

A lil pouch to go along with the lippies!

Look at zee lip rings!

Look at zee lip rings!

How the lippies look with the lip rings on!

How the lippies look with the lip rings on!

Limited Edition packaging

Limited Edition packaging

Rouge Unlimited Supreme Matte

Yaz Red (RD1)

shu uemura × Yazbukey Rouge Unlimited Supreme Matte in Yaz Red (S$38 / US$31)

shu uemura × Yazbukey Rouge Unlimited Supreme Matte in Yaz Red (S$38 / US$31)

shu uemura × Yazbukey Rouge Unlimited Supreme Matte in Yaz Red

shu uemura × Yazbukey Rouge Unlimited Supreme Matte in Yaz Red

shu uemura × Yazbukey Rouge Unlimited Supreme Matte in Yaz Red

shu uemura × Yazbukey Rouge Unlimited Supreme Matte in Yaz Red

shu uemura × Yazbukey Rouge Unlimited Supreme Matte in Yaz Red

shu uemura × Yazbukey Rouge Unlimited Supreme Matte in Yaz Red

shu uemura × Yazbukey Rouge Unlimited Supreme Matte in Yaz Red

shu uemura × Yazbukey Rouge Unlimited Supreme Matte in Yaz Red

shu uemura × Yazbukey Rouge Unlimited Supreme Matte in Yaz Red

shu uemura × Yazbukey Rouge Unlimited Supreme Matte in Yaz Red

From the Sexy Red range, there is Yaz Red, a mid-tone raspberry red (leaning more towards pink) with a flat matte finish. A repromote from the first collaboration with Yazbukey, Yaz Red is both festive and chic, depending on how pigmented you want it to be. When applied with pressure, it seemed slightly bolder and darker at first but gradually lost its intensity and became brighter, though not to the extent of it being neon. This lightweight lipstick adorned the lips with a powdery texture for a feeling of velvety softness while delivering an even, medium to full coverage as it glided on. It did not settle into my lip lines, though, until several hours later.

In terms of its longevity, the colour on the outer edges stayed on through a McSpicy dinner but wore off at the centre of my lips as I had expected. The lipstick didn’t feel drying throughout my 10-hour wear time but it somehow wasn’t the easiest to remove at the end of the day unless I exfoliated my lips.

Yaz Red swatch comparison

Yaz Red swatch comparison

Coral Dance (NUDY1)

shu uemura × Yazbukey Rouge Unlimited Supreme Matte in Coral Dance (S$38 / US$31)

shu uemura × Yazbukey Rouge Unlimited Supreme Matte in Coral Dance (S$38 / US$31)

shu uemura × Yazbukey Rouge Unlimited Supreme Matte in Coral Dance

shu uemura × Yazbukey Rouge Unlimited Supreme Matte in Coral Dance

shu uemura × Yazbukey Rouge Unlimited Supreme Matte in Coral Dance

shu uemura × Yazbukey Rouge Unlimited Supreme Matte in Coral Dance

shu uemura × Yazbukey Rouge Unlimited Supreme Matte in Coral Dance

shu uemura × Yazbukey Rouge Unlimited Supreme Matte in Coral Dance

shu uemura × Yazbukey Rouge Unlimited Supreme Matte in Coral Dance

shu uemura × Yazbukey Rouge Unlimited Supreme Matte in Coral Dance

shu uemura × Yazbukey Rouge Unlimited Supreme Matte in Coral Dance

shu uemura × Yazbukey Rouge Unlimited Supreme Matte in Coral Dance

Coral Dance from the Lovely Nude range appears to be a warm, medium beige with subtle red undertones on the tube, but translates to a bright pink-toned salmon on my lips which I don’t quite fancy. Similarly, it has a flat matte finish which forbids it from having any hint of shimmers. Even so, it does not at all leave a tacky feeling on the lips nor does it zap out moisture from them. The consistency was still so smooth and velvety that it glided on my lips without tugging or pulling. This lipstick provides a nearly opaque payoff in one swipe which was buildable to a full coverage, along with a texture that allows for an even application that stays put for more than 8 hours.

Coral Dance swatch comparison

Coral Dance swatch comparison

Rose Flows (PK2) 

shu uemura × Yazbukey Rouge Unlimited Supreme Matte in Rose Flows (S$38 / US$31)

shu uemura × Yazbukey Rouge Unlimited Supreme Matte in Rose Flows (S$38 / US$31)

shu uemura × Yazbukey Rouge Unlimited Supreme Matte in Rose Flows

shu uemura × Yazbukey Rouge Unlimited Supreme Matte in Rose Flows

shu uemura × Yazbukey Rouge Unlimited Supreme Matte in Rose Flows

shu uemura × Yazbukey Rouge Unlimited Supreme Matte in Rose Flows

shu uemura × Yazbukey Rouge Unlimited Supreme Matte in Rose Flows

shu uemura × Yazbukey Rouge Unlimited Supreme Matte in Rose Flows

shu uemura × Yazbukey Rouge Unlimited Supreme Matte in Rose Flows

shu uemura × Yazbukey Rouge Unlimited Supreme Matte in Rose Flows

shu uemura × Yazbukey Rouge Unlimited Supreme Matte in Rose Flows

shu uemura × Yazbukey Rouge Unlimited Supreme Matte in Rose Flows

Rose Flows, a deep warm pink with a flat matte finish that isn’t too over-the-top for work environment that isn’t too accepting of unconventional makeup looks, nor is it too dark that it would make thin lips appear smaller.

Intensely pigmented with an evenly soft consistency that sits so ever comfortably on the lips alongside a texture that impeccably conceals any imperfections (as it attempted to fill the lines instead of caking around them), it is not difficult to understand how this shade surfaced as my top pick for an effortless early morning pick-me-up. It doesn’t take a lot out of me to get a prominent colour on my lips as all it requires is one firm swipe. This shade wore well on me when I test-drove it for about 6 hours before fading evenly to a muted rosy stain and is neither drying nor hydrating.

Magenta Spell (RD2)

shu uemura × Yazbukey Rouge Unlimited Supreme Matte in Magenta Spell (S$38 / US$31)

shu uemura × Yazbukey Rouge Unlimited Supreme Matte in Magenta Spell (S$38 / US$31)

shu uemura × Yazbukey Rouge Unlimited Supreme Matte in Magenta Spell

shu uemura × Yazbukey Rouge Unlimited Supreme Matte in Magenta Spell

shu uemura × Yazbukey Rouge Unlimited Supreme Matte in Magenta Spell

shu uemura × Yazbukey Rouge Unlimited Supreme Matte in Magenta Spell

shu uemura × Yazbukey Rouge Unlimited Supreme Matte in Magenta Spell

shu uemura × Yazbukey Rouge Unlimited Supreme Matte in Magenta Spell

shu uemura × Yazbukey Rouge Unlimited Supreme Matte in Magenta Spell

shu uemura × Yazbukey Rouge Unlimited Supreme Matte in Magenta Spell

shu uemura × Yazbukey Rouge Unlimited Supreme Matte in Magenta Spell

shu uemura × Yazbukey Rouge Unlimited Supreme Matte in Magenta Spell

Representing the final colour range Edgy Berry is Magenta Spell which takes the form of a promising flat-matte warm burgundy (leaning more towards brick red) but lets down with its uneven and smidgen streaky finish on the initial coat, partly because it also tends to skip during application. Then, as I tried building up the opacity of the lipstick, it became noticeably patchier whereby areas that had received more product becoming a lot darker than those that didn’t. Although, to be honest, the payoff wasn’t the worst I had seen (I’ve also had my fair share of disappointing M·A·C purchases), I found it to be rather unacceptable given the high standards on which shu uemura prides itself.

But to be fair, the unsatisfactory texture is too minor a flaw to render this lipstick an F grade considering that there are worse offenders in the market than it is. Discounting the fact that application could have been better, Magenta Spell does have its good points, too. For a start, it has the same non-sticky powdery smooth texture and is as long-lasting as the other shades. Somehow, it also feels comparatively more hydrating on the lips.

Magenta Spell swatch comparison

Magenta Spell swatch comparison

Magic Metallic Lip Liner

From S Curler to star-shaped stamp, shu uemura never fails to surprise us with interesting novelties. This year, the newest innovation from shu uemura features another line of lip products (sadly, also limited edition) that enable you to add a fun and artistic twist to your lip contour, or in this case your matte lips. Make a lip statement that will truly turn heads simply by applying metallic lines with any of the four Magic Metallic Lip Liner shades for a contrasting finish against the matte background.

Magic Metallic Lip Liners

Magic Metallic Lip Liners

Swatched: Gun Metal - BANG, Pink - YEAH, Bronze - OHH, Gold - WOW

Swatched: Gun Metal – BANG, Pink – YEAH, Bronze – OHH, Gold – WOW

Gold – WOW

shu uemura × Yazbukey Magic Metallic Lip Liner in Gold-WOW (S$38 / US$30)

shu uemura × Yazbukey Magic Metallic Lip Liner in Gold-WOW (S$38 / US$30)

shu uemura × Yazbukey Magic Metallic Lip Liner in Gold-WOW

shu uemura × Yazbukey Magic Metallic Lip Liner in Gold-WOW

shu uemura × Yazbukey Magic Metallic Lip Liner in Gold-WOW

shu uemura × Yazbukey Magic Metallic Lip Liner in Gold-WOW

shu uemura × Yazbukey Magic Metallic Lip Liner in Gold-WOW

shu uemura × Yazbukey Magic Metallic Lip Liner in Gold-WOW

shu uemura × Yazbukey Magic Metallic Lip Liner in Gold-WOW

shu uemura × Yazbukey Magic Metallic Lip Liner in Gold-WOW

shu uemura × Yazbukey Magic Metallic Lip Liner in Gold-WOW

shu uemura × Yazbukey Magic Metallic Lip Liner in Gold-WOW

shu uemura × Yazbukey Magic Metallic Lip Liner in Gold-WOW

shu uemura × Yazbukey Magic Metallic Lip Liner in Gold-WOW

shu uemura × Yazbukey Magic Metallic Lip Liner in Gold-WOW

shu uemura × Yazbukey Magic Metallic Lip Liner in Gold-WOW

Unlike most traditional metallic liquid lipsticks, these lip liners have way thicker consistency with an exceptionally fast dry-down rate, hence preventing them from bleeding or dissolving into the product beneath them. The finish of the liner becomes flat matte once it dries with no hint of tackiness. The pigment of my gold liner is incredible and filled with densely packed high-shine gold shimmers, so much so that for a split moment, I actually had the suspicion that this was the same substance used to foil lettering. But it’s obviously not because it can be removed entirely with regular water (so only apply on the outer edges of the lips if you want it to last through meals).

Instead of a doe-foot applicator, these liners are applied using the brush applicator (similar to that of nail polish) attached to the cap. It is dense and stiff enough to allow easy manoeuvering along the outline of the lips. Embellishing lips had never been so much fun 🤩

Took the liberty to zhng some more hahaha

Took the liberty to zhng some more hahaha

Watch out, M·A·C: these matte lipsticks will be giving you a run for your money! Through the Rouge Unlimited Supreme Matte line, shu uemura proves that it is absolutely possible to create non-drying, true matte lipsticks without compromising on the quality. In fact, what I find most admirable about the brand is that they actually delivered what they promised. Just how many times have you encountered lipsticks that claimed to be matte but turned out to be anything but that? Ever seen or run your finger over matte countertops? These matte lipsticks by shu uemura look and feel exactly like them – they are smooth to the touch and don’t reflect light. shu uemura is the real deal.

But regardless of the brand of the lipstick, the same ol’ rule applies: exfoliate before application as these lipsticks won’t show their potential on rough, flaky surface. And if possible, apply with a brush because as you might have noticed, the lipsticks have the tendency to ball up on the lips.

shu uemura, to me, has always been the underdog in the global beauty market that hardly gets any acknowledgement for their quality and performance. Despite the cutting-edge and superior formula the brands constantly puts out, it has never (not that I know of) ranked on international beauty charts which more often than not are dominated by Western beauty giants. Perhaps, it’s about time shu uemura gets the recognition it deserves. What do you think?

Thanks for reading!

shu uemura × Yazbukey launches islandwide from 1 May 2018. It is also available online through TANGS.com and Metro.com.sg. in Singapore and shuuemura-USA.com for U.S. residents.

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REVIEW: shu uemura × Super Mario Bros. – Rouge Unlimited in RD187 & PK 375, Invincible Superstar Premium Curler & Dual Stamp-Me Liner

Hello everyone!

A few days ago, I posted my review on the Peach’s Eye & Cheek palette and as promised, this second part will see me blabbering on about the rest of the items I’ve gotten from this collection. Read on to find out how two shades of the lipsticks, the eyeliner and eyelash curler from the Super Mario Bros. collaboration fare in my book!

shu uemura × Super Mario Bros (PART II)

shu uemura × Super Mario Bros (PART II)

click here to read my review on the shu uemura × Super Mario Bros PEACH’S EYE & CHEEK PALETTE

#1 Dual Stamp-Me Liner

shu uemura × Super Mario Bros Dual Stamp-Me Liner (US$34 / S$45)

shu uemura × Super Mario Bros Dual Stamp-Me Liner (US$34 / S$45)

Clear indication on the body of the pen for easy location of the stamp end

Clear indication on the body of the pen for easy location of the stamp end

Super Star motif on the inside of the box

Super Star motif on the inside of the box

It's not stated on the website, but I suppose "Hidden Star" is the name of the shade

It’s not stated on the website, but I suppose “Hidden Star” is the name of the shade

The felt tip on the liquid eyeliner end

The felt tip on the liquid eyeliner end

See the eyeliner in action

See the eyeliner in action

Thick-winged eyeliner

Thick-winged eyeliner

Classic eyeliner flick

Classic eyeliner flick

Available only in one shade (a jet black with pinpricks of multicoloured glitter), the dual-ended eyeliner offers a stamp on one side and a felt-tip liquid eyeliner on the other for regular use. For clarity, I’ll talk about the latter first.

Unlike most eyeliners, this wasn’t love at first application. For a start, it skipped and dragged slightly on my lid, and while it is great that the felt-tip has a firm texture for a more controlled application, it felt somewhat scratchy. The ink somehow does not flow consistently and bleeds quite terribly on every first use so I have to test the eyeliner on the back of my hand before applying it to the lids every time. Although those problems would have been curtailed on subsequent uses (within the same application), some pressure still has to be exerted upon the applicator – which I try to avoid because it pricks – for a more pigmented finish.

The eyeliner didn’t budge an inch on my upper lid after eight hours of wear but it smudged on my lower lid (partly because I was watching a comedy and I tear up easily when I laugh 😂) and that was even with a layer of eye shadow beneath it to supposedly prevent it from running. I tried to smudge it further with my finger to balance out the unintentional smokey eyes but it stubbornly stays put!

But looking past these flaws, its coverage is remarkably opaque for a liquid eyeliner. Apart from that, it is waterproof, dries down moderately fast with excellent staying power. Once you’ve gotten the hang of it, you would be a whiz with creating an intense cat eye and other graphic looks!

The pattern on the stamp end

The pattern on the stamp end

Super Star stamp on the temple

Super Star stamp on the temple

Super Star stamp on the cheekbone

Super Star stamp on the cheekbone

If your attempts to draw perfect stars on your face have always ended in failure, listen up! You can now achieve them in just one simple step with the Super Star stamp!

Truth be told, the stamp feature initially felt like a gimmicky tactic to market the eyeliner so I was half-expecting a blotchy mess from it. But, boy oh boy, was I blown away by the precision and pigmentation it delivers in a single punch! Not only did it hold up to my longwear tests (by rubbing and showering with it), it had very minimal bleeding on my sandpaper-rough face too which contributed to crispness of the stars’ corners. The stamp is fairly easy to use and does not require much pressure to get a clean and even impression (plus pressing the stamp down too hard would also cause the rim to leave an imprint). The ink stays all day without distorting the shape and, on top of that, removes effortlessly with my Sephora cleansing wipe.

Granted, the idea of makeup stamps may not have been pioneered by shu uemura (see Milk) but I’ve not seen any with a hollow middle like this one which gives users the liberty to fill the stars with whatever colour they want for a more rockstar appeal à la Kat Von D 😝 That said, if only there were more designs and colours to choose from! A sparkle or snowflake imprint would have been so apt for the festive season, don’t you agree?

Stamp and eyeliner (two strokes to show continuity of ink flow) swatches. The first pass of the eyeliner is directly below the star. Notice how it bleeds more than the one next to it?

Stamp and eyeliner (two strokes to show continuity of ink flow) swatches. The first pass of the eyeliner is directly below the star. Notice how it bleeds more than the one next to it?

Compare finish and pigmentation with eyeliners of other brands (pardon the redness of my wrist caused by rubbing my lipstick swatches off too vigorously)

Compare finish and pigmentation with eyeliners of other brands (pardon the redness of my wrist caused by rubbing my lipstick swatches off too vigorously 😝)

The line-up of lipsticks in this collection includes five popular shades from the Rouge Unlimited Supreme Matte series (PK 375, PK 376, RD 187, BG 954 & OR 570) and two limited edition Sheer Shine shades (Stage Cleared & Saved Peach) in translucent dark fuchsia plastic casing housed in light pink box graced by an enlarged pixel art of Princess Peach. The packaging in this collection is to die for but the inner video game nerd in me is totally geeking out over the various 8-bit Super Mario graphics plastered all over the (all-pink 😍) lipsticks in particular. Oh, would ya just look at that?

shu uemura × Super Mario Bros Rouge Unlimited Supreme Matte (S$38)

shu uemura × Super Mario Bros Rouge Unlimited Supreme Matte (S$38)

Super Mario motif on the inside of the box

Super Mario motif on the inside of the box

The lipstick packaging

The lipstick packaging

Furthermore, the lipsticks come largely in my favourite finish 😁 In my first shu uemura Rouge Unlimited review, I had declared my desire to try their Supreme Mattes and this collection just about provides the opportunity to do so! To cut a long story short, I loved the finish so much that I actually hit the store to purchase another shade despite having sent me one as a PR sample already.

Swatches of 4 out of 5 Supreme Mattes (BG954 not pictured) from this collection

Swatches of 4 out of 5 Supreme Mattes (BG954 not pictured) from this collection

#2 Rouge Unlimited in RD 187

shu uemura × Super Mario Bros Rouge Unlimited Supreme Matte in RD 187

shu uemura × Super Mario Bros Rouge Unlimited Supreme Matte in RD 187

shu uemura × Super Mario Bros Rouge Unlimited Supreme Matte in RD 187

shu uemura × Super Mario Bros Rouge Unlimited Supreme Matte in RD 187

shu uemura × Super Mario Bros Rouge Unlimited Supreme Matte in RD 187

shu uemura × Super Mario Bros Rouge Unlimited Supreme Matte in RD 187

shu uemura × Super Mario Bros Rouge Unlimited Supreme Matte in RD 187

shu uemura × Super Mario Bros Rouge Unlimited Supreme Matte in RD 187

shu uemura × Super Mario Bros Rouge Unlimited Supreme Matte in RD 187

shu uemura × Super Mario Bros Rouge Unlimited Supreme Matte in RD 187

shu uemura × Super Mario Bros Rouge Unlimited Supreme Matte in RD 187

shu uemura × Super Mario Bros Rouge Unlimited Supreme Matte in RD 187

RD 187 is a vivid red with blue undertones and has a “superb matte effect” which shu uemura attributes to their careful selection of matte powders. This lipstick applies with some slip and has the ability to smooth out fine lines without stripping away the moisture so exfoliating prior to application wouldn’t be absolutely necessary. The colour goes on evenly without tug and infuses the lips with fullness and sensuality in spite of the minimal shine.

Lightweight with a comfortable texture, it has a medium coverage but is buildable to a full opacity. It stays put throughout the day where unctuous and heavy food and drinks are not involved and fades evenly when they are without the tell-tale ring of colour around the lip line. Also, it is neither drying nor hydrating.

Swatch comparison for RD 187 with reds from other brands

Swatch comparison for RD 187 with reds from other brands

#3 Rouge Unlimited in PK 375

shu uemura × Super Mario Bros Rouge Unlimited Supreme Matte in PK 375

shu uemura × Super Mario Bros Rouge Unlimited Supreme Matte in PK 375

shu uemura × Super Mario Bros Rouge Unlimited Supreme Matte in PK 375

shu uemura × Super Mario Bros Rouge Unlimited Supreme Matte in PK 375

(single swatch)

shu uemura × Super Mario Bros Rouge Unlimited Supreme Matte in PK 375

shu uemura × Super Mario Bros Rouge Unlimited Supreme Matte in PK 375

shu uemura × Super Mario Bros Rouge Unlimited Supreme Matte in PK 375

shu uemura × Super Mario Bros Rouge Unlimited Supreme Matte in PK 375

shu uemura × Super Mario Bros Rouge Unlimited Supreme Matte in PK 375

shu uemura × Super Mario Bros Rouge Unlimited Supreme Matte in PK 375

PK 375 is a muted plum with pink undertones. Non-glossy, it envelops the lips in a soft matte colour which applies with some tug. This shade gives a medium coverage but is, once again, buildable to a full without weighing down the lips. It has a reasonable wear time (about the same duration as RD 187) and most of it managed to last through the Buttermilk Crispy Chicken Burger I had for dinner the other day, albeit with some of it settling visibly into my lip natural crevices.

As compared to RD 187, this actually has a much drier consistency with a slightly powdery texture which could explain its tendency to emphasise any signs of dryness and imperfection. Nevertheless, this self-purchased lipstick still wears rather comfortably (the texture isn’t bothersome) and is overall neither drying nor hydrating.

Swatch comparison for PK 375 with rosy pinks from other brands

Swatch comparison for PK 375 with rosy pinks from other brands

#4 Invisible Superstar Premium Curler

shu uemura × Super Mario Bros Invincible Superstar Premium Curler (S$30)

shu uemura × Super Mario Bros Invincible Superstar Premium Curler (S$30)

shu uemura × Super Mario Bros Invincible Superstar Premium Curler

shu uemura × Super Mario Bros Invincible Superstar Premium Curler

shu uemura × Super Mario Bros Invincible Superstar Premium Curler

shu uemura × Super Mario Bros Invincible Superstar Premium Curler

shu uemura × Super Mario Bros Invincible Superstar Premium Curler

shu uemura × Super Mario Bros Invincible Superstar Premium Curler

shu uemura × Super Mario Bros Invincible Superstar Premium Curler

shu uemura × Super Mario Bros Invincible Superstar Premium Curler

Super Star motif on the inside of the box

Super Star motif on the inside of the box

Putting the Invincible Superstar Premium Curler to the test

Putting the Invincible Superstar Premium Curler to the test

The curler managed to capture most, if not all, of my upper lashes

The curler managed to capture most, if not all, of my upper lashes

Before and after using the Invincible Superstar Premium Curler + mascara (side view)

Before and after using the Invincible Superstar Premium Curler + mascara (side view)

Before and after using the Invincible Superstar Premium Curler + mascara (front view)

Before and after using the Invincible Superstar Premium Curler + mascara (front view)

Touted as the Holy Grail of eyelash curlers, the critically acclaimed shu uemura eyelash curler takes on a special appearance for this collection as it gets an all-gold treatment with a polished Super Star charm on a detachable gold beaded chain. For the uninformed, the “uniquely curved” eyepiece is designed to be universally fitting on most eye shapes while the shape of the silicone pad gives an elongated sweeping curl. In addition, the durable hinge at the center of the curler “regulates the amount of pressure applied to the lashes which ensures safety”. Unlike the eyelash curler in shu uemura’s regular line, this does not include a replacement pad (and neither does the brand sell them separately) so despite being priced the same, the limited edition is essentially marginally more expensive without it. But hey, what’s a few dollars more for a rare packaging like this?

Having already owned a shu uemura eyelash curler from the Karl Lagerfeld collaboration years ago, I have a set of expectations in mind and this works just as well as the one before – or even better. It grabs every strand of my lashes (including the hard-to-reach ones on the inner and outer corners of my eye) without pinching despite having problematic hooded eyes. Suitable for beginners, it doesn’t require much effort to give the lashes a natural curl which held up for more than an hour bare (but could be shorter with mascara on). For this, I could actually feel the impact of the curler on my lashes even without squeezing it much. The sharp edges of it left a small impression on both corners of my lid but they fortunately went away after some time. However, I still find the eyelash curler slightly too big for my eye although that’s certainly not enough a reason to stop me from using this amazing tool.

Generally, the products in this collection – especially the lipsticks – perform up to par even though prices are steeper than usual. It’s a worthy expense if you like Super Mario Bros or cute, limited-edition packaging. Just don’t get the eye and cheek palette.

Without a doubt, shu uemura stole the show with this totally rad throwback collection and judging from the overwhelming response it gets everywhere (most of it are sold out in the U.S. as well as at Tangs and Sephora online), I guess the public agrees too!

Wearing every shu uemura × Super Mario Bros product I have! Which side do you prefer?

Wearing every shu uemura × Super Mario Bros product I have! Which side do you prefer?

What are you favourite products from the shu uemura × Super Mario Bros. collection? Did you get anything? Let me know your thoughts in the comments below or simply take a poll!

 

Thanks for reading!

shu uemura × Super Mario Bros is now available on the Sephora Singapore (online), at TANGS and shu uemura boutiques islandwide.

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