hurt but not confused

Okay, let's talk about brown lipstick on pale skin. I know, I know, the internet is full of comments about it looking like... well, let's just say not-so-flattering things. I've literally heard some people say brown lipstick looks "like poop from a butt on white ppl," which can make anyone with a pale complexion hesitant. But as someone with a decidedly pale epidermis, I've always been intrigued by the challenge of making unique shades work. That's why I finally bit the bullet and decided to try Girlcult's J816 'Killing Eve' lip gloss. When I first unboxed J816 Killing Eve, I admit I had a moment of doubt. In the tube, it's a deep, almost vampy brown. My initial thought was, 'Is this going to be my worst makeup decision yet?' On my skin, it definitely leans towards a rich, warm chocolate brown. Some might call it a 'nude' brown, but for fair skin, it's certainly a statement. The 'Hershey squirt' comment isn't entirely off base if you're expecting a delicate nude, but if you embrace a bold, earthy tone, it truly transforms into something chic. The key to making a shade like J816 work on pale skin, I've found, is all in the application and the rest of your look. Firstly, prep your lips! A little exfoliation and balm go a long way in ensuring a smooth canvas. This gloss is quite pigmented, so you can go for a full opaque look or dab a little on and blend for a sheerer wash of color. For me, a full application sometimes needs a touch of warmth elsewhere on my face – a peachy blush or a subtle bronzer can prevent the lip from looking too stark. I also love pairing it with a simple eye look, maybe just mascara or a thin liner, to keep the focus on the lips. One reason brown lipsticks get a bad rap on pale skin is often due to undertones. If you have cool undertones and choose a very warm, orange-brown, it can clash. Conversely, a very cool-toned brown can wash out warm-toned pale skin. J816 Killing Eve, to me, has a balanced warmth that can surprisingly flatter both. It's not overtly red or orange, but a true chocolate. It's about finding your brown. Don't be afraid to experiment! What looks like 'poop' to one person might be sophisticated and chic on another. Beyond the color, let's talk about the formula. Girlcult's lip glosses are known for being comfortable, and J816 is no exception. It's not overly sticky, yet it has a nice cushiony feel that keeps lips hydrated. It lasts a decent amount of time for a gloss, fading gracefully into a stain rather than disappearing entirely. Reapplication is easy, and it doesn't settle into lip lines, which is a big plus for me. So, if you've been hesitant to try brown lipstick, especially if you have a pale complexion and have heard all the negative comments, I encourage you to give a shade like Girlcult J816 Killing Eve a chance. It's a fantastic way to step out of your comfort zone and embrace a sophisticated, edgy look. Don't let those old beauty rules dictate your style. Makeup is all about expression, and sometimes the shades that seem intimidating are the ones that surprise you the most. Who cares what anyone else says when you feel confident and fabulous?