Yves Saint Laurent Rouge Pur Couture Glossy Stain in #9 Rouge Laque

I thought it would be sensible to start off with my long-term favourite lip colour, YSL Glossy Stain in Rouge Laque. I get compliments virtually every time I wear this. It's bright, warm toned and impossibly glossy. The shine lasts for a couple of hours on me and holds up relatively well through drinking and snacking, less so through a meal. The stain it leaves behind is opaque, though my lips are fairly pigmented so it may well vary from person to person.

First I must say that I'm using my webcam for photos and my University bedroom, which is about 6' by 9', has appalling lighting. Hopefully I'll remember to send off my phone insurance form to get a replacement iPhone 4 as my temporary iPhone 3G simply cannot take a colour-accurate or focused photograph. I am going home on Wednesday so may update with improved photos.

This is me with only Vaseline on my lips.

This is one coat of the Glossy Stain. Lots of previous bloggers and reviewers have said that one coat can be used for a more subtle and less opaque colour. I find that one coat is definitely not subtle, and slightly patchy.  I have only tested this colour and suspect that for less vibrant shades such as #15 Rose Vinyl, which I love but do not suit, one coat would have a better effect.

This is two generous coats. Boom! Even with these poor-quality shots it is clear how glossy and enormous my lips look.

Though I'm sure you're aware of what the tube looks like, here is a photo. I am a sucker for YSL packaging and I love that there is a window on it for easy reference (if you're lucky enough to have more than one shade this is a great feature.)

And the applicator. A huge flat doe foot. This is one of my favourite applicator styles as it makes application so quick. Definitely stick to this applicator instead of using a lip brush.

This baby cost me £22.50 but some shades will cost £23.50. Not sure what the idea is behind the price discrepancy. You can buy them at all the usual places, and on YSL's UK website you can purchase Vintage shades. I have my eye on a couple but am hesitant about purchasing blind, especially when I know that none can beat this shade for me.

On my face: YSL Glossy Stain #9, Rouge Bunny Rouge Blush Wand in Titian, Clinique High Impact Extreme Volume Mascara.

*Just in case you're wondering, those aren't affiliate links!