It's no secret that burgundy is the shade of the season, according to social media at least. In fact, #burgundy has amassed 72.2K posts on TikTok with droves of influencers sharing their sartorial takes on the colour trend. And the make-up world has followed suit. 'Cherry girl make-up', the deeper, darker and more grown up sister to summer's 'strawberry girl make-up', has garnered over 40.1 million views on TikTok with a plethora of season-defining looks to spark inspiration. Keen to try one? Look to Clinique's Pop'™ Lip + Cheek Oil in Black Honey, £23.50, as the single product you need to hop on the trend with one quick swipe, literally.
Yes, you read that right. After launching in May 2024 and instantly selling out in a limited-edition drop, the newest iteration of the infamous Clinique Almost Lipstick in Black Honey, is back for good. The deep berry-toned lip-to-cheek oil was quick to set social media alight during the first-ever drop, with fans of the original lipstick falling head over heels for the new update's ability to create a luminous, hydrating, never-sticky monochromatic look all over. Like the original, it is universally flattering and works beautifully across all skin tones, while providing the perfect wash of diffused, fruity colour. It's also loaded with a skin-loving blend of safflower, jojoba, olive, sunflower and castor oils, making it a treat for lips and cheeks. No wonder it was quick to fly off shelves.
The reinvention of the classic and subsequent popularity of it in spring 2024 proves Black Honey's seasonless appeal – the shade is guaranteed to peak interest no matter the time of year. After achieving cult status over the last 50 years, the bestselling lipstick continues to have a revival every so often, meaning it wasn't long before TikTok caught on to the lip product, which boasts 1 billion views on the app. The viral shade may have sold out time and time again, but demand for Black Honey remains strong as evidenced by the comeback of its newest iteration.
With a glossy finish and a subtle pigment that adapts to any skin tone, Black Honey is the ultimate clean girl shade. Essentially, it gives off a 'your lips but better' appearance. Anything to achieve the effortless off-duty look is always appreciated.
If you're left wondering whether the shade lives up to its reputation, read on for our honest review. In the meantime, here's where you can shop Black Honey in both lipstick and lip-to-cheek form. Treat yourself to the timeless 'almost' lipstick that makes the perfect winter shade.
Shop: Clinique Black Honey
www.clinique.co.uk
Our prayers have been answered. The brand's newest iteration of the cult-favourite lipstick is back for good after selling out with a limited-edition drop in May 2024. It packs all the same universally flattering, sheer-to-deep wash of pigment, but this time in a multifunctional, hydrating and non-sticky oil which can be used on lips and cheeks. Run, don't walk.
LookFantasticwww.lookfantastic.com
Seven tubes of Clinique Almost Lipstick in Black Honey is sells every minute, according to the brand's website. TikTok can't get enough of this viral lip phenomenon. A transparent pigment merges with the unique, natural tone of your lips to create something yours alone. Sheer, glossy, lightweight.
Pros
- Buildable formula
- Adapts to all skin tones
- Glossy texture
Cons
- May be underwhelming for some
Clinique Black Honey Review
Tried and tested by Samantha Price, Beauty, Fashion & Wellness Product Writer:
Is Clinique Black Honey worth it?
'Clinique's Almost Lipstick in Black Honey truly has become an everyday staple in my makeup bag. Subtle enough to be worn throughout the day, but pigmented enough to transition to the night. It has a balm-like texture that nourishes the lips as you wear it, keeping chapped lips at bay. If you've always wanted to give the bestselling lip shade a try, now is your chance.'
Is Clinique Black Honey warm or cool?
'Black Honey does have a slightly warmer undertone, but you may be surprised that it looks incredible on cooler undertones too. The pigment is subtle enough so that it flatters everyone who wears it. Essentially, the adaptable shade is the chameleon lip colour that you need in your make-up kit.'
When was Clinique Black Honey released?
Clinique first launched its shade Black Honey in 1971, in the form of a gloss pot. Black Honey appeared in a vampy dark shade with the consistency of honey, hence its name. However, when applied, it turned into a translucent sheer veil that worked with all skin tones.
Black Honey had a makeover in 1989 and was launched as a tube of 'almost' lipstick. Easier to apply and throw in your bag than ever, Clinique saw the opportunity to make its lipstick more convenient. And it's seen popularity ever since. Each decade Black Honey has its moment, making it a cult classic through the generations.
Samantha 'Sam' Price is a Beauty, Fashion & Wellness Products Writer at Grazia magazine. In 2021, Sam began her journey as a Storytelling Executive at Closer and heatworld on an internship, creating beauty and fashion content across these brands. It was 2022 when Sam was employed as a Commercial Content Writer writing about Family Life on Yours, Mother & Baby and Spirit & Destiny. Now, she specialises in beauty, fashion and wellness content across many brands.
Main image credit: @iconiccpinkk / @cliniqueuk / @theoliviasaurusrex