Revlon Colorstay Ultimate Suede Lipstick: we applaud Brett Anderson for this daring new direction

Despite being distinctly unimpressed by Revlon’s recent Baby Sticks, I am in general a fan of the brand – particularly their lip and nail products. So I sat up and took notice when these new suede effect lipsticks came my way.

The concept is innovative and there isn’t really anything else like it on the market – the formula, enriched with shea butter, aloe and vitamin E, promises a matte lip that feels hydrated and moist throughout the wear-time.

On first application, I was baffled. They apply like a glossy balm, gliding over the lips for a slick and shiny finish. But wait! A few minutes in and the product dries down to a powdery finish, wrapping round and setting on the lips like a longwear liquid lipstick. Once it sets, there’s no fear of transfer – these babies aren’t for budging!

Why yes, that is a floral blazer - I'm in the yes camp!

You end up with a semi-matte effect that, on my lips, looks good for 3-4 hours before it starts to look and feel too dry. On the plus side though, the thin bullet makes them easy to reapply on the hoof. I find them perfect for work – a quick slick at the desk in the morning sees me through to lunchtime, when I can top up with ease.

Of the two I tried, I preferred the more saturated shade – I get the feeling that these work best with a brighter or bolder colour.

Front Row is a pretty,  peachy pink, but I wasn’t mad on it as a matte - I thought it looked best when first applied and slightly glossy looking, which defeats the purpose somewhat. Couture, however, is a bright berry that looked great as a semi-matte; it's punchier and has more oomph – I’m definitely a fan.

There are 14 shades in the range and the pinks and reds look really appealing – I think I’ll be picking up a couple of brights for the summer.

They’re €13 and out now – have you tried ‘em yet, or are you tempted?