NARS Shanghai Express Lipstick Review, Photos and Swatches!

Nars Shanghai Express Lipstick

Nars Shanghai Express Lipstick ($26) is a warm, brick red with a semi-matte finish. It's applies slightly deep, like a ripened cherry red - It's not what I'd call a Snow White or classic, bright red. It doesn't lean orange on me, which many warm reds have a tendency to do, and it doesn't turn rosy pink which many cool reds tend to do on my lips. Brick red is a really good description for the color as there are some definite brown undertones, which seems to flatter my skin tone very well (medium with warm, yellow undertones).

The finish is mostly matte. If you see any shine on my lips, it's because I prepped them with some lip balm. With any matte finish lipstick, an good exfoliation and layer of lip balm as a base is usually necessary so the lipstick won't dry the lips out or accentuate any dryness.

The lipstick itself isn't crazy opaque with one layer - I'd say it's more of a medium coverage with one layer, but buildable with an additional layer. I found that when I used a lip brush, I didn't get as opaque of coverage, so I prefer applying it directly from the tube and only using a lip brush for the outer edge of my lips. I actually don't own a good red lip liner to pair it with, but I'm definitely going to have to purchase one! Any recommendations?

Nars Shanghai Express Lipstick on my lips.

Nars Shanghai Express Lipstick Swatch

I really like the way this lipstick looks on my skin tone and I like how featherweight it feels on my lips. Like I said, it's slightly drying, so I try to make sure to apply a layer of lip balm first (or after). 

This lipstick is highly recommended for those with warm, yellow undertones and I completely agree!

I also like wearing this lipstick lightly patted on my lips with a clear gloss on top. It gives a super pretty, softer look. 

What's your favorite red?

The Round-Up

Pros:

• Doesn't lean orange to pink on my warm skin
• Isn't so emollient/creamy, so it doesn't smudge easily
• Lightweight and comfortable on the lips
• Lasting power is very good

Cons:

• Can be drying (it's a good idea to exfoliate prior and wear a lip balm) 

Price: $26, NARS, Sephora.