LIP SWATCHES | Estée Lauder Review

I've been so excited to share my thoughts on these two gorgeous Estée Lauder lipsticks I recently got my hands on! As someone always on the hunt for that perfect lip shade, I love trying out luxury brands, and Estée Lauder definitely holds a special place in my makeup bag. I picked up '201 Ulterior Motive' in their Silk Matte finish and '222 Heat of the Moment' with a beautiful Slick Shine, and let me tell you, first impressions are everything! Let's dive into '201 Ulterior Motive' first. This shade is truly captivating – it's a sophisticated peachy-pink that feels incredibly versatile. On my arm, in the swatches, you can really see that subtle warmth and how beautifully it complements different skin tones. The Silk Matte formula is a dream to apply; it glides on smoothly without feeling dry or tugging at the lips, which sometimes happens with matte lipsticks. It gives a lovely, soft-focus look that enhances my natural lip color without being too overpowering. In terms of wear, I've found that 'Ulterior Motive' holds up quite well. It's not completely transfer-proof, but for a matte, it definitely has impressive staying power. I can get a good 4-5 hours of comfortable wear before needing a touch-up, especially if I'm just drinking. Eating a meal will require reapplication, but the fade is even and not patchy, which is a huge plus for a long-lasting lipstick. I'd say it performs excellently for a matte, living up to the luxury reputation of Estée Lauder, making it a strong contender for anyone evaluating their long-lasting lipstick options. Next up, '222 Heat of the Moment' – this one is a showstopper! It's a rich, deep reddish-brown that instantly makes me feel glamorous. The Slick Shine finish gives it a juicy, plumping effect that I adore. Unlike some glossier lipsticks, this one feels very comfortable and hydrating on the lips, not sticky at all. The color payoff is fantastic, providing full coverage with just one swipe. When it comes to longevity, as expected with a slick shine formula, it's not as long-wearing as its matte counterpart. However, for a glossy lipstick, it still offers decent wear. I typically get about 2-3 hours of comfortable wear, and the shine gradually fades, leaving a nice stain behind. It's perfect for when I want a statement lip that feels luxurious and hydrating, knowing I might need to reapply after a coffee break or a meal. Comparing the two, it's a classic matte vs. shine debate! 'Ulterior Motive' is my go-to for an everyday polished look that I don't have to think about too much, offering that reliable, long-lasting wear. 'Heat of the Moment' brings the drama and hydration, making it perfect for evenings out or when I want to feel a bit more bold. Both shades truly embody the quality you'd expect from Estée Lauder. For those wondering about the overall long-lasting performance of Estée Lauder lipsticks, based on these two, I'd say their matte formulas are impressively durable, while their shiner finishes offer good wear for their type, prioritizing comfort and a beautiful finish. While these two have been a delight, I've also seen some buzz around their 'Dark Desire' lipstick and am curious to explore more of Estée Lauder's range in the future. Their commitment to quality and diverse shade offerings makes them a standout in the luxury cosmetics market. So, which one do I like best? It's tough because they serve different purposes! If I had to pick one for sheer versatility and lasting power, 'Ulterior Motive' might just edge it out for daily wear. But for a touch of glamour and a rich, bold statement, 'Heat of the Moment' is unbeatable. What do you think? Have you tried these or any other Estée Lauder lipsticks? Let me know your favorites!