Two very sensible NARS purchases!

NARS single eyeshadow in 'Abyssinia' £16.50 for 2.2g

NARS lipstick in 'Bell De Jour' £17.50 for 3.4g

I always get a little overexcited at the NARS counter because it is one of my favourites, but I restrained myself and bought two very wearable, everyday products, and thought I'd share with you my sensible buys!!

Single eyeshadow 'Abyssinia'

'Abyssinia' is a 'delicate pearl sheen' (NARS website) however I'd argue that the pearl finish is very subtle and doesn't 'define' the finish if you like. The formula itself is buttery and blends fabulously. Because of it's cream shade it can be used as a base colour or as a highlight on the brow bone, or even on it's own for a simple day look. I'm pleased I bought this, for such a pale shade it is useable and wearable; does anyone else find that pale shades such as this are often annoyingly chalky with minimum colour pay off? Not with this one, worth the price investment if you get as annoyed at pale chalky shadows as I do!!

Lipstick in 'Belle De Jour'

'Belle De Jour' is a sheer finish lipstick, it leaves a subtle wash of colour on the lips but I've found this is buildable with a couple of coats for a slightly bolder finish. It is a beige colour that has nude and orange hues in it.

The shape of the bullet is perfect, the point is very precise and due to it's translucent finish this could be reapplied easily without a mirror if necessary!

I have found that is does dry out my lips slightly after wearing it, but this may change when the weather gets better as my lips aren't in their best condition at the moment. Obviously it's sheen finish means it isn't hugely long lasting, I'd say it lasts comfortably for a couple of hours maximum.
This lipstick was listed at number 6 on The Independant's list of top 10 lipsticks; the article states "This lipstick is one of those perfect in- between' colours, blending terracotta with taupe to create a modern take on a trendy neutral' (The Independant) - and I totally agree. It is a simple nude, but with a definite edge to it. I'd imagine it could be layered on top of bolder colours to town them down, or to add a sheen to your favourite matte lipstick, but I haven't tried either of these yet.

Both of these are what I call perfect 'interview' colours. They're neutral, inoffensive, light and don't make too much of a statement (obviously dependant on what interview you're going for!) ; )

Both are of high quality (as you'd expect from the price) and packaged in the sleek black NARS packaging that we all know and love. The eyeshadow feels particularly well protected, and even comes complete with miniature mirror inside the compact.