NARS Spring 2017 Wildfire Collection: Review & Swatches

Although many of us have just celebrated Christmas and winter’s wrath is still in full-effect, I decided to start the New Year by sharing the pretty spring collection from NARS. The range features an eclectic mix of finishes including: vivid shadow sticks, bright blush palettes, metallics and neutrals.

The Satin Lipstick in the shade Kiss Me Stupid is a beautiful burnt sienna. The texture glides on creamy and supple for a wash of sheer to medium color and the neutral orange-brown undertone softens my entire look. Breaking Free is not a shade I usually go for but the vibrant pop of neon coral with flashy peach tint is a little retro and perfect for spring. This hue has a creamy semi-matte texture that is moist and rich but it took a bit of blending and some well placed layers to achieve consistent coverage. Like the satin finish, this formula is nicely pigmented and quite hydrating with an infusion of antioxidants and conditioners that nourish and prevent dryness. The lipsticks retail for $35.00 each.

I’ve never been one to choose an eye shadow stick over pressed or loose pigment but the new Velvet Sticks glide on smooth and creamy without skipping or dragging. The color is vibrant, beautifully saturated, blendable and non-creasing with a lightweight formula that can also be layered under other shadows. The packaging is convenient for travel and the rounded tip allows you to accentuate the lash lines for a dramatic effect. There are 8 shades available in both matte and multidimensional shimmer finishes and once set the color is long-lasting and smudge-proof. I also like that the sticks twist-up without the need to sharpen and the deep, jewel tone purple is stunning on all complexions. If you want to get really creative you can even use these on the lips! The Velvet Shadow Sticks retail for $35.00 each.

Siros (shimmery gold) & Usbek (deep purple satin)

The Eye Shadow Duo in - Thessalonique contains an iridescent seashell pink and soft violet smoke that complement each other beautifully. On me the pink undertone is very faint and I get more of a shimmery champagne hue which illuminates and highlights. The purple swatches a bit deeper than it appears in the pan with a light dusting of glitter that makes it feel more textured and slightly drier than the silky silver. Both shades are nicely pigmented and can be enhanced from sheer to fuller-coverage with some layering and a good primer. The palette retails for $43.00 and is also available in an assortment of other color combos.

Left to right: eye shadow, Breaking Free, Kiss Me Stupid, Usbek & Siros

NARS Cosmetics is available at Sephora, Hudson's Bay, Nordstrom, Murale and Holt Renfrew.