Hello everyone!
Thank God for the internet. Not only does it enable consumers living outside of the United States to have access to brands not found in their country, but also introduces them to new or indie brands that would otherwise be confined within their own retail walls. One brand I had discovered of late is OFRA, an up-and-coming cosmetic brand that has got every makeup enthusiast talkin’ about their liquid lipsticks.
Founded in the late nineties by Ofra Gaito – a therapist and make-up artist from South Africa – along with her husband David, OFRA has over 20 years of experience in the beauty industry so they are definitely worth a look. For a start, OFRA is among the few brands to have an in-house laboratory, thus allowing them to formulate and produce their own professional skincare and makeup products and oversee the entire manufacturing process.
Since breaking into the American market, they have partnered with numerous high-profile personalities and franchises including Miss Universe. Most recently, they also seemed to have taken a leaf out of ColourPop’s book and worked with social media influencers. This shift in marketing direction proved to be highly fruitful as their latest collaboration with famous beauty vlogger Kathleen Lights had attracted lots of buzz on Instagram (and maybe YouTube), so much so that even a social media dweeb like myself had taken notice of it. Although not as dirt cheap as ColourPop, their products are considerably more affordable than MAC and the likes (with discounts), but even so they boast of equally great quality. Therefore, unsurprisingly, many were very eager to lay their hands on the first liquid lipstick born out of this partnership (though I believe the choice of colour played a huge role in the hype as well). Within days of its launch, it was completely sold out, thereby prompting OFRA to do a restock that was never (based on their Instagram update 14 weeks ago) in the plan!
Being totally new to the brand, I wasn’t really keen on adding it to my stash at first but after seeing how popular Miami Fever was, I knew I had to! (Yes, yes, say all you want about me being a bandwagon jumper 
)
OFRA Miami Fever (US$19.90)
OFRA Miami Fever
My first venture into OFRA started off well as there was a discount code (which has already expired) for 40% off the entire website. Thus, instead of paying the full price of US$19.90+, I only had to fork out US$16.89 (inclusive of shipping fee). My order was processed and shipped out by the end of the following day but it took close to 7 days to arrive at my U.S. address. I wasn’t in a hurry to try it so I didn’t really mind the wait.
The lipstick is packed rather tightly in a slim paper box, but it could be easily removed by sliding it upwards along the rectangular cutout at the front. Don’t bother taking it out from the opening at the top because the box will tear if you do so.
OFRA Miami Fever
Packaged in a relatively tiny bottle about twice the length of my pinky, it comes with an applicator which felt sturdier and slightly more slender than that of other liquid lipsticks I own. It was the perfect size because it allowed for a more precise and manageable application. Therefore, no lip liner is necessary.
OFRA Miami Fever
OFRA Miami Fever
OFRA Miami Fever
OFRA Miami Fever
When putting the applicator to my lips, a pronounced scent of vanilla (or something close, like a chocolate blend) unexpectedly hit my nose. It is a lot more potent than that of MAC lipsticks, so I would advise you to stay clear if you have a very sensitive nose. But apart from the smell, there’s truly nothing to dislike about this lipstick. Besides, it even contains antioxidants and Vitamin E for added benefit!
The liquid lipstick glides on smoothly and evenly in an opaque coat of vivid burnt orange with blue undertones in just one swipe. This shade is one of a kind; I don’t remember having anything similar. Contrary to the description on the website, it dries down almost instantly, leaving little to zero chance of smudging and feathering. It felt lightweight, therefore reducing any sign of flaking. It does not settle much into the lip lines (of course, exfoliating the lips prior to application would give better results but as usual, I’m lazy) and the flawless matte effect it provides reflects light to add a glow to your smile. Most importantly, it’s extremely long-wearing because it lasted almost 6 hours on me (with minimal drinking and eating)!
I can go on gushing about this product but you probably already get the gist. In short, this liquid lipstick is uh-mazing, right down to the finish. For this reason, I will certainly be looking forward to my next purchase with OFRA!
OFRA Miami Fever swatch comparison
Compared with the liquid lipsticks from ColourPop, Miami Fever definitely looks more pigmented and hard-wearing. The subtle glaze over it also made it look less flat. You’re clearly paying for the quality here.
That’s all from me! What do you think of OFRA products? Do share with me your thoughts in the comments below!
Thanks for reading ❤
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