Smashbox Cosmetics Reign Collection was designed by makeup artists, photographers and models in the interest of creating a flawless look. The 2009 “Reign†Color Collection is allegedly inspired by the “rule of the English Tudors†so as to “epitomize the lavish extravagance of royalty.†Despite the more than slightly pretentious choice of muse, Smashbox delivers a series of products that may very well be worthy of royal use. The collection includes Lip Gloss, Lash DNA Mascara, Fusion Blush, and Jet Set Palette; all of which come packaged in what could only be interpreted as a convoluted Smashbox-logo-meets-Tudor-Crest design.
Although this reviewer would not dare assume to know whether any product is worthy of a queen’s application, it does seem that in some cases Smashbox has conjured up some luxurious and high-quality cosmetics:
Jet Set Palette ($48): Conveniently housed in a leather compact, the Jet Set Palette is this reviewer’s favorite product of the collection. Such high praise is primarily due to the fancy leather casing and the Mini Arced Liner Brush, which allows for smooth and steady application. Colors include matte black and matte dark brown eyeliner for top eyelids, and metallic gold and metallic brown colors for bottom lashes to achieve a brightening effect.
Fusion Blush ($32): Like the Jet Set Palette, the Fusion Blush also arrives in an impressive leather compact, complete with a mirror; however, the mirror loses all purpose when closing the compact results in the glass surface coming in direct contact with the blush itself. That being said, the product meets its promise to deliver a “naturally-flushed appearance,†as a result of the subtle mixing of both the shimmer and matte shades, which are presented side-by-side in the same compact casing.
Lash DNA Mascara ($19): Encased with a convenient application guide, the Reign Collection Lash DNA Mascara in plum is certainly unique, perhaps fit for those seeking spotlight much like that highlighting a royal throne. The wand is thick, as is the pasty liquid, but application is smooth. Although the color is not conventional, this product’s effect is actually rather subtle and not at all as purple-y as would be expected. Also of note: this product is marked “cruelty-free.â€
Lip Gloss ($18): The Reign Collection Lip Gloss’s somewhat tacky application is overcome by a sweet aroma and a charming keychain cap. Smashbox encourages users to “indulge lips in extravagant color and scandalous shine,†yet the effect is actually rather dull and reminiscent of this reviewer’s pre-lipstick adolescence, made up mostly of drugstore finds affordable on a babysitter’s budget.
Smashbox’s 2009 Color Collection is available at The Plaza Beauty by Warren-Tricomi, One West 58th Street at The Plaza Hotel’s Grand Concourse Level.
Jessica Stein
