Styling Metallic Lips

Despite all the rage in metallic lips, I was quite hesitant to try this trend because I feel like it looks too bold for my daytime job. I mean, I'm all for statement lips but this is one category I haven't really dipped into until recently. Hikari Cosmetics is an up and coming brand founded on providing sophisticated yet affordable makeup options for women. They are PETA-certified/ cruelty-free. I received four shades from their recently-launched metallic lip glosses ($13 each) but instead of the usual swatches, I thought of showcasing each shade alongside my work outfits-of-the-week, sounds fun ha? Here we go!

Monday was rockstar-meets-neutral. My studded knit top was a statement by itself so I went with neutral lips. This is Tender Heart, you can tell that whilst it's metallic, it looks subtle for daytime. As with other lip glosses, the applicator is sponge-type doe-foot. There's a whiff of citrus/chemical scent to all these lippies but nothing too overpowering. I had to apply twice to make it stand out a little. I wore cigarette pants and booties to complete my look.

Tuesday was comfort-meets-sass. I had some procedures and patient consults on that day so I wore something very comfortable yet still quite formal. I love gray and black combo, I can live in this outfit every single day if I could. Freefall is deep berry, Fall-appropriate in one way or the other. I had to apply four times because it comes out uneven. With too much product on, my lips felt tighter because it does dry down quite matte.

Wednesday was dress-down. I work half-days on Wednesdays so 99% of the time, you will see me in dark denims and simple top. I woke up late, grabbed my black long-sleeved top which you already saw many times on the blog, put on black jeggings and wore booties. I didn't have extra time to take several photos. Thankfully, this one shot came out clear. Forbidden is a beautiful rosy pink shade, it's my favorite because it gives a neutral pop to my very minimal makeup.

Thursday was safari meets bronze. By now you have an idea that I do gravitate towards black or dark colors, outfit-wise. They're easy to wear that's why. Fall is when I wear animal prints and of course booties. I thought Spiced Rum, a bronze gold shade, compliments my top. I did a subtle smoky eye makeup to amp up my look. I thought this shade was a little too much for daytime but no, I actually liked it after Forbidden.

If you're looking for cruelty-free alternative metallic lip glosses that won't break the bank, I think Hikari's line is worth considering. You can wear each one on its own or layer two colors if you're feeling rad. As mentioned, it dries semi-matte so try to moisturize your lips prior to application. Wear time is relative depending on what you do or eat. It survived sipping coffee and light salad lunch. The vegan status is quite unclear because when I asked the PR if it's either cruelty-free or vegan, I only got a response that it is the latter. If you order direct from their website, there is $3 shipping in the contiguous states, $5 in Hawaii and Alaska.