Girlcult is a C Beauty (Chinese Beauty) brand created by one of the biggest Korean global manufacturer of beauty, Cosmax. If you don't know Cosmax, I am sure you have dipped your fingers in many of their products which include L'Oreal owned brands.
Girlcult takes Chinese cultural history and interprets it into their makeup. The mystery, magic, and beauty of their products appeal to what is deep within yourself. As a Gen Xer, I realized I really miss my colorful and rebellious youth of the 80's. This was the era where makeup became an outlet for self-expression. I wanted to express myself, again. I just wondered if Girlcult could even work for an old lady like me without feeling ridiculous.
I started with their lip products. I bought 2 Love Whisper Matte Lip Stain in Lavender (M73) and Puppet (G81). These aren't stains but I think in the translation it just means it will put color onto the lips. The other one is called Unreal Lip Gloss in Scarlet Veil (J816). I think the Asian thinking process of unreal means it is a gloss and stays glossy even when it sets, thus it is unreal.
The Whisper Matte Lipstains
I have a light olive skin tone and these go so well with it. You know how some brands say they are good for olive tone, then after some hours of wear they pull warm (orange). These don't. These are truly cool toned without looking death like and ashy. (There is a difference between ashy and cool toned.)
A few key points about these two mattes:
- A rosy scent which doesn't last. It isn't like Anna Sui products where you feel like you are licking a rose petal.
- Dry patches will be prominent. Exfoliate and moisturize.
- Lightweight. Doesn't feel like a thick layer of frosting.
- For a smoother looking application, get a silicone applicator. It makes a BIG difference!
- Give it about a minute or so to set and become transfer-proof.
I know I can't wear Puppet all the time but with a topping of lip gloss, it changes its character making it more wearable and casual, at least for me it does. Think of these mattes as a base for lips. They are a great alternative to the blur crayons (which I didn't like at all, maybe I will elaborate in a future post).
Unreal Lip Gloss
Scarlet Veil is what I was hoping Chanel would have done with Vamp. This is a rouge noir that just brings out everyones deep sexy vampire desires, you know, a way to seduce Lestat (Anne Rice reference)!
A few points:
- Glossy yet has an oil feel.
- A very slight scent but unless sensitive really undetectable.
- Goes on smoothly but not thick. Again, get a silicone applicator or those round lip brushes.
- Allow it to set.
- Leaves a stain with normal napkin wiping, can be removed with cleansing balm.
I find this Scarlet Veil perfect for those who remembered the original Chanel Vamp. It doesn't matter your age because this one works for every age and generation. If you are worried about the liplines, get a good lipliner or better yet, make it more dimensional and get one of the matte lip stains and layer!
I don't regret these colors, I want more dark colors. They just bring out a side of me that I kept hidden. Am I too old for this? NO! In fact, I find it easier now to wear these colors than in my younger days because no need for a full face of makeup to bring out the beauty. With age, the inner beauty comes out and these lips become the focal point for that. All that is needed to finish the look is concealer and a soft smattering of blush. THAT is all the makeup that is needed!
Try it! You will see a different side of you appear. Life is too short to wonder and to just watch others in their youth enjoy. Us Wise Owls have the secret beauty and we just need to show it off!
I would say Girlcult fills the gap K Beauty lacks. Sure, it is nice to have all the various browns in undertones of pink, coral, peach, mauve, and berry. Sometimes, the goody two-shoes wants to turn into a rebel and that is where Girlcult can be a nice addition to a makeup collection!
Girlcult can be bought at various legitimate sights: Amazon, CBeauty Mall, Yesstyle, Stylevana, Chic Decent.
