M.A.C Cherish

 Cherish (http://www.temptalia.com/)

 Cherish swatch (http://www.temptalia.com/)

Cherish can be described as "rich creamy beige nude" (http://www.temptalia.com/). Nudes are very hard for me to work with because many of them wash out my skin, and come off looking chalky. What's nice about cherish is that it does have peachy undertones so it compliments darker skin well. The finish is Satin so it is long lasting without being drying like a Retro Matte would do. The best way to wear this color is definitely with a liner and I would suggest Pink Treat by MAC.  

Me wearing Cherish with an average clear lip gloss ! :)

M.A.C Russian Red

 Russian Red (http://www.temptalia.com/)

Russian Red swatch

(http://www.temptalia.com/) 

Russian Red is described on maccosmetics.com "intense bluish-red" with a matte finish.  Though, it is mostly neutral (not leaning cool or warm), it will only read slightly blue-toned on a very warm complexion.  I would also describe this as a medium-dark shade.  These factors make this the perfect red for all skin tones.  Even girls who have trouble finding red to match their skin will love Russian Red.  It is long-wearing and will leave a slight stain on your lips after it has worn off.  Unlike many matte finishes (especially retro-matte), it is not drying and even a bit creamy.  It will leave your lips looking matte, but feeling hydrated and smooth. It's smoothness does have a downside though.  Some might find that it doesn't quite stay in place and may get outside your lip line.  This can be easily counteracted by doing one of two things (or both).  First, you can apply a lipliner to the rim of your lips.  I would recommend Cherry lipliner from MAC. This will make sure your lipstick doesn't bleed and catches any lipstick that might get outside your lip line.  Your second option is to set the lipstick with a translucent powder.  This make sure your lipstick wont budge and better prevents it getting on things like coffee mugs, utensils (basically anything you put near your mouth).  It also takes away any shine.  Though, this option may make your lips a bit dryer.  

This color is one of my personal favorites and is one of MAC's best selling lipsticks.  The great thing about red lipstick (and Russian Red in particular) is that it looks good with any eye makeup, even blues, purples, greens, etc.  I highly recommend this for anyone who is looking for a sophisticated red and might have a hard time finding a red that fits their skin.  

Wearing Russian Red