Clinique’s Almost Lipstick — a.k.a. the flagship product of the brand’s universally beloved Black Honey shade — is a lipstick for people who don’t like lipstick. It’s not thick, waxy, or overly pigmented like heavier formulas. It only comes in two colors that suit pretty much every skin tone: Pink Honey stains the lips a perfect shade of blush pink, while Black Honey is more of a rosy mauve. And when it fades, “you’re never left in that weird, half-on phase that can lead to the impression that you’re a little bit drunk,” nor does it “catch on your teeth when you smile,” writes fashion editor Amy Larocca, who keeps multiple tubes in her purses, coat pockets, medicine cabinets, and desk drawers. Right now it’s 25 percent off at both Nordstrom and Sephora, bringing the price down to just $19. It’s a great gift for yourself or any anti-lipstick person you know, and depending on your shipping location, it may still arrive before Christmas and Hanukkah — but if you’re on a strict deadline, I’d highly recommend opting for in-store pickup just to be safe.
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