The big makeup trend for 2013 is brite n' matte lips. Pinks, reds, plums - all matte and all opaque. I think this trend is something everyone can jump into because it requires minimal skill to pull off. Plus, it would look good on just about any set of features and complexions! Loud lips are also a good excuse for girls who don't want to wear much makeup, as they require only a flawless base, some mascara, and polished brows to look modern and ultra-cool.

The Bobbi Brown Creamy Matte Lip Color (P1,350), released last quarter, is something you should look into if you like matte lipsticks. The formula is opaque in one layer, doesn't transfer, and lasts over six hours even with eating and drinking. It is dry, as expected from matte lipsticks, but it doesn't flake compared to its drugstore counterparts.

Creamy Matte glides on nicely even with the dry texture. I don't wear a lip balm under it if my lips are in prime condition, but if they're dry, I just apply a very thin layer.

Revlon Super Lustrous Creme Lipsticks (P450) never let me down. Ever. They have a rich, moisturizing texture, a full-bodied cream finish, and awesome pigmentation to top it off! I'll say it - they can rival high-end lipsticks from MAC, Makeup Forever, and other expensive brands.

Just remember to wear lip balm beforehand because they dry up pretty quickly (2 hours) although the color stays on.

On to the swatches! Cherries in the Snow is a fantastic, complex color. It's a bright blue-based red that looks like fuchsia on me in certain lighting. From what I understand, Cherries is a classic Revlon lipstick that was launched in 1953. Dorian Leigh, one of the world's first supermodels, wore it in an iconic ad. This is in the same cult level as Fire & Ice. Smashing! 

The ultimate 50s red

I love how matte lipsticks look but I don't like how they feel on the lips. They're heavy, thick, and drying if I don't prime my lips properly with a hydrating balm. They're less comfortable compared to glossy lipsticks but in exchange they last waaay longer and leave a pretty stain.

One lipstick that I'm really digging is the new Shu Uemura Rouge Unlimited Supreme Matte Lipstick in M PK 335 (P1,285). It feels like silicone primer on the lips - indeed, it's silicone-based! - so it's cushy, soft, and not at all heavy. Trivia: this lipstick's main ingredient is dimethicone, a type of silicone oil that is largely used in shampoos to keep hair smooth and shiny. It's safe, don't worry! I just think it's neat.

Aaanyway. This matte lipstick lasts super long and doesn't fade completely even after eating. It doesn't transfer too much on glasses and utensils, plus, it's not drying.