MAC Nutcracker Sweet Collection

The MAC Nutcracker Sweet collection launched in the UK whilst I was in New York and as the U.S gets the latest launches a week before we do, the collection had all but sold out in both locations before I had a chance to snag a few of the key products (the face kits were the things dreams are made of). I was however fortunate enough to receive two of the new MAC Nutcracker Sweet lipsticks and one of the best-selling MAC Khol pencils too - perfect for creating a subdued yet polished festive look, be it for a party, work or a stroll around the local supermarket (I really do live my best life, don't I?).

MAC Nutcracker Sweet Collection
MAC Nutcracker Sweet Collection

The first thing that I noticed and inevitably want to mention about the MAC Nutcracker Sweet collection is the packaging. I rather like that MAC have side stepped the traditional festive and often garish colours associated with the season, and settled on a refined palette of bright pink, plum and hints of gold. It's modern, quirky, unexpected and frankly perfectly presented to create a memorable gift - I'm not here to judge if that person happens to be yourself.

MAC Nutcracker Sweet Collection
MAC Nutcracker Sweet Collection
MAC Nutcracker Sweet Collection

If you buy one thing from the MAC Nutcracker Sweet collection, let it be MAC So Good for You Lipstick (£17); this blue based red, almost veers on coral which surprisingly makes it a little easier to wear than your traditional and classic red - not to mention a little more special too. MAC have described this as a matte formulation but I would describe it to be more of a satin as it has a slight sheen, nothing overly glossy but enough to create the illusion of fuller, plumper lips. The best part about this shade and formula for that matter is the fact that it wears so beautifully, it doesn't smudge, smear nor does it cling to any dry areas and accentuate any fine lines. I have also found that it fades evenly too, settling to a "just bitten" stain that looks great on everyone.

MAC Nutcracker Sweet Collection
MAC Nutcracker Sweet Collection
MAC Nutcracker Sweet Collection

A shade that is slightly less universal and perhaps suited to those who enjoy wearing stark, light pink lipstick hues is MAC Kingdom of Sweets Lipstick (£17). Admittedly this is not a shade that I would wear daily - or own its own for that matter - but as it is a cremesheen it is one of MAC's more creamy and generally moisturising formulations which is perfect for the drying, Winter weather. MAC Kingdom of Sweets is a light, blue based pink that veers on lilac which can wash out certain complexion tones but it is ideal for teaming with deeper shades to either lighten them overall, or create an ombre effect. As lovely as the MAC Cremesheen formula is (almost glossy, non-sticky and comfortable to wear), Kingdom of Sweets is a shade that I truly suggest you test out in-store before purchasing as it can be a little tricky to wear.

MAC Nutcracker Sweet Collection
MAC Nutcracker Sweet Collection
MAC Nutcracker Sweet Collection
MAC Nutcracker Sweet Collection

After swearing off black eye liner (it made my already small eyes appear almost non-existent), I made it my mission to find something equally as defining yet more flattering to my eye shape. In my mind, the answer would be a chocolate- brown eyeliner, so you can imagine my surprise when I slicked on a little purple and was rather impressed by the flash of colour on my lids. Unlike a true black liner, MAC Prunella Eye Khol (£15.50)has all the intensity of such shade but translates to a softer, altogether flattering liner option regardless of where or how you apply it. I also find that plum/purple shades make all eye colours sparkle and can take the place of a cream eyeshadow should you wish.

Did you manage to snag anything from the MAC Nutcracker Sweet collection? And what upcoming MAC launch are you eagerly anticipating?