NARS Sheer Lipstick in Dolce Vita Review

You may remember this NARS Dolce Vita lipstick from my post about whether sheer lipstick is worth the money. As with most of the beauty products I review on here, I have owned it for a long time.

Firstly, let’s talk about the packaging. NARS Dolce Vita comes in a rectangular tube that is slightly rubberised which is notorious for marking. It’s not as weighty as lipsticks I have tried from the Audacious range – Vera, I’m looking at you! But it’s still sturdy and it doesn’t feel like it’ll break in my bag anytime soon.

What NARS say about their lipstick range:

A NEW LINEUP OF LIPSTICK IN MATTE, SATIN, AND SHEER FINISHES. INNOVATIVE NEW FORMULA DELIVERS INSTANT COLOR VIBRANCY AND CONDITIONS LIPS FOR A HYDRATED FEEL.

Dolce Vita comes in the sheer formula although there is a Velvet Matte Lip Pencil of the same name. I used to have the lip pencil as well and it is ever so slightly darker and more opaque, whereas the NARS Sheer Lipstick is more of a rosy colour.

NARS Dolce Vita Colour Payoff

As you can see from the swatch, the colour payoff is quite good for a sheer lipstick. In fact, I wouldn’t say it was very sheer at all. A quick swipe will give a good flush of colour, but it can definitely be built up into something more noticeable. It’s a mid-toned dusty rose that I think is pretty neutral. What doesn’t show on the swatch which I think is more noticeable on the lips is its slight plummy undertone.

Dolce Vita has a creamy consistency, and reminds me of MAC’s Cremesheen lipstick range. It has no discernible fragrance and is easy to apply on the go.

Dolce Vita has a slight sheen finish (accentuated by the fact I’m wearing lip balm underneath). It’s comfortable to wear and moisturising. The lipstick doesn’t highlight cracks or dry areas on the lips, the only reason my lips aren’t looking their best is because we’ve hit a sudden cold snap and my lips always react at this time of year.

With regards to longevity, it isn’t great due to the finish. I usually get about three hours of wear, but it’s so easy to apply on the go that it’s not too much of a hassle.

Final thoughts on NARS Dolce Vita – is it worth the money?

At £22.00, it’s expensive but whether it’s worth it depends on what you’re looking for in a lipstick. If you don’t mind splurging on a wearable everyday lipstick that’s hydrating it’s totally worth it. If you prefer to spend money on a lipstick in a striking colour to wear on special occasions Dolce Vita isn’t going to be the one.

I really like Dolce Vita though. The formula is perfect at this time of year when lips are getting a little drier, and it’s quite a nice everyday winter colour.

What do you think of the NARS Sheer Lipstick in Dolce Vita?

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