Graded: Two Kat Von D Studded Kiss Lipsticks

I present to you two lipsticks from the same line: Studded Kiss from Kat Von D. This brand is available at Sephora, which is where I got both of these products, though at separate times.

These lipsticks are advertised as being bold, lasting 10 hours, and being comfortable to wear. Keep that in mind as we go on.

Spoiler alert: one of these is amazing and one of these is not amazing. Let’s get to it. (See the rubric if you need a grading procedure reminder.)

First up: Thin Lizzy

Ease of Application: 5/5
This lipstick applies smoothly and without tugging, which is impressive given its glitter content. It has a standard lipstick shape which allows for easy and quick application.

Formula: 5/5
Long-lasting? Yes. Comfortable? Yes. We are talking about a lipstick that applies and remains semi-matte without being drying. I drank a whole iced coffee without this coming off enough to notice. It does not emphasize dry spots or bleed at the lip line.

Color: 5/5
Holy mother of lipsticks this is gorgeous. Thin Lizzy is described as a

“sparkling brick copper.” It is red without being red and dark without being vampy. I am comfortable wearing this day and night. There is noticable shimmer but it is not distracting. It simply adds an interesting dimension to the lips. I believe this would work on most skin tones.

Packaging: 5/5
The Studded Kiss packaging is the reason I purchased it in the first place. It is literally a studded black tube. The cap goes on securely and carrying this makes me feel bad ass.

Thin Lizzy has earned an A+

Next up, Vampira

Ease of Application: 2/5
I’m sorry, but it shouldn’t be this hard to put on a lipstick. Not only does this tug, but it is nearly impossible to get a clean line or an even coverage.

Formula: 1/5
Yes, this is long-lasting. However, I do not want this on my lips long enough to prove it. It is drying and utterly uncomfortable. I feel dirty wearing it. I hope that doesn’t sound mean. Just being honest here. Furthermore, I cannot for the life of me get this to cover my lips completely. It is always crumbling at the inner lip and it just looks like I’ve worn it for hours from the get-go.

Color: 4/5
Vampira is described as “matte deep reddish burgundy.” That is true. However, it is only opaque in one swipe in some spots. Like I said, I cannot get this to apply evenly. Otherwise, it is a lovely, vampy color that would be perfect for fall and winter.

Packaging: 5/5
See “Thin Lizzy” above

Vampira earns a C+

 

 

Here is a comparison of the shades we discussed today:

 

 

So you see, this Kat Von D line is extremely hit or miss. I urge you to really test out the shades before purchasing. (Fun fact: I purchased Thin Lizzy after Vampira… so I went back for more despite really not liking my first experience!)

Edit: since this originally posted I have acquired more of this line and greatly enjoy it. See here for the shade Wolvesmouth.

 

 

originally posted 11/24/14