NARS | Fall Powerfall 2016 Colour Collection

One word describes the NARS Colour Collection for Fall 2016: P O W E R F A L L (and no, I can’t take credit for this gem). Drawing inspiration from upcoming cooler seasonal signals, this capsule collection gives a sly nod to the emerging assertive 70’s woman but is given a fresh and modern twist by virtue of the suede-like quality of the colours and rich textures. The overall colour palette is at once subtle and soft, balanced out by hits of shimmer and iridescence while lips take the spotlight in a strong yet totally sensual way. As someone who actually lived through the 70s, I can honestly say that I so wish this entire range was available then — it would have made many of my photos of the day much less cringeworthy now.

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Aya Jones for the NARS Fall 2016 Colour Collection campaign

NARS | Fall Powerfall 2016 Colour Collection

NARS | Talia & Melina Contour Blush, Fall 2016

Talia Contour Blush (CAN $54.00) | Of the two new shades being added to the brand’s Contour Blush roster, Talia is pale hued and definitely cooler leaning compared to Melina. Described as ‘light caramel‘ (left side) and ‘nutmeg‘ (right side), this product is about as far as one can get from social media’s contouring mania, being a product that can provide that elusive ‘natural-looking’ definition which so many other similar products fail to do. The right (and larger) side can be used either as a neutral-hued blush or along the lower cheek and jawline for subtle shading, while the pale segment works well as a ‘highlight’ – albeit without any of the bling usually associated with the word. Another option is to swirl the two colours together for a customized hue — especially effective on those with fair complexions (note that my present Summer-tanned skin may wash the colours out a bit).

NARS | Talia Contour Blush swatches

Melina Contour Blush (CAN $54.00) | The darker side of this duo has a slight ashy undertone which helps it work more like a traditional contour powder (since natural shadows on the skin will have a greyish cast). Described as ‘Café au lait‘ (left side) and ‘Espresso‘ (right side), the texture of the powder is incredibly fine-milled and blends effortlessly into the skin, although it should be stated that both shades share this amazing texture. Melina with its stronger pigmentation, might need a lighter hand to start with and I suspect it can even work as a bronzer by using a fluffy or fan/brush for an effortless and natural-looking effect. Best for medium to darker complexions, you can also buff more of the lighter shade over the darker one to diffuse the colour down, if needed.

NARS | Melina Contour Blush swatches

NARS | Talia & Melina Contour Blush swatches

NARS | Dual-Intensity Eyeshadows, Fall 2016

Dual Intensity Eyeshadows (CAN $36.00/each) | There’s something quite amazing about NARS’ Dual-Intensity Eyeshadows; far from being your run-of-the-mill type shimmers, they seem to be several notches above with a texture that literally melts into the skin upon application, leaving behind this almost otherworldly glow. Applied with a dry brush, you get a sheer wash of colour although that can be built to a stronger depth of tone – the swatches shown below are all with a dry brush and yes, all three are seriously THAT pigmented. Applied with a dampened brush yields a foil-like shine and amps up the brilliance to major intensity — perfect for when you want to make a statement. Staying power (over primer) is excellent as well, staying true without signs of fading until removed.

Rigel – shimmering rose-gold pink
Antares – iridescent white-gold
Arcturus – simmering deep indigo

NARS | Rigel, Antares & Arcturius Dual Intensity Eyeshadows, Fall 2016

NARS | Rigel, Antares & Arcturius Dual Intensity Eyeshadow swatches

NARS | Infatuated Red & Consuming Red Velvet Matte Lip Pencils, Fall 2016

Velvet Matte Lip Pencil (CAN $33.00/each) | The staying power of the brand’s Velvet Matte Lip Pencils will probably go down in the Guiness World Book of Records as one of the longest-lasting (true story: one shade, Mexican Rose, was still visible on my lips 24 hours later and after having viciously wiped it away with a dual-phase remover. Seriously). It goes without saying, that there is an undeniable ease to using a pencil, although I would personally prefer these came in a retractible format so as to have less waste re:sharpening. The texture on both is velvety, creamy-smooth and feels ultra lightweight applied, with the colour looking fresh and vibrant hours later, not including any eating and/or drinking.

Infatuated Red (limited edition) – THE perfect red: intense, lush, & total carnal
Consuming Red – deep wine red, will work with all skin tones

NARS | Infatuated Red & Consuming Red Velvet Matte Lip Pencil swatches

With so many amazing brands out there today, you’d think it would take a Herculean effort to try and stand out, but once again NARS has found a way to do exactly that. There’s something at once familiar and yet … NOT about the Fall 2016 Colour Collection, which makes it all the more intriguing and so worth investigating. Quality-wise, you couldn’t ask for a better performance from any one piece as they all seem to not only work harmoniously together, but able to stand alone as well. Overall impression? Another hit for François Nars. By the way, please don’t hate me if your wallet is already crying … #dontshootthemessenger

Available August 1 at all NARS counters and online