Review: NARS Taj Mahal Blush

Meet Orange Blush: Your new best friend.

Taj Mahal, along with Exhibit A, are two of NARS' most pigmented and well, intimidating blushes. Never fear, though. With the right application, this gives the cheeks a gorgeous glow few blushes can match.

Specs:

-0.16 oz

-not a matte blush; contains some shimmer

Cost:

$27 (WAS $26 not too long ago. What's with the price hike, NARS?)

Availability:

NARS or Beauty.com

Review:

It took me a few years to get the guts to try out this ORANGE blush. When I first discovered it, I thought, "Ok, do I really want to buy a blush that gives me Oompa Loompa cheeks?". Then...I saw someone wearing this and knew it had to be mine. 

This is EXTREMELY pigmented, so a VERY (note the caps?) light hand is required in application. It blends like a dream and creates a gorgeous, summery glow. It doesn't contain glitter or sparkles, but is a little on the shimmery side, so it's perfect for summer. Or, with a more matte blush layered over this, it's a bit more wearable for daytime year-round. 

I like to use my NARS Yachiyo to apply this, only because the skunk brush I have is on the larger side and doesn't give me as much control as the Yachiyo's smaller head. I'd suggest using a blush brush that isn't very dense, so you can apply this lightly and evenly. When applied well, this is hands down one of my favorite blushes. Absolutely gorgeous and unlike anything else I own.

Recommendation:

For tan/olive/darker skinned girls, I'd consider this is a must-have in your blush stash. This may work on lighter skin tones, but I'd certainly suggest swatching this first. 

For a cheaper, somewhat close dupe, try NYX Cinnamon blush.

Grade:

10/10