Dior recently released the new formula for Dior Rouge Lipstick.  The new formula has 32 couture signature shades (see the shades below). This formula provides full coverage and is a creamy satin finish. The new formula has the addition of a marine crista extract that stimulates cellular renewal, and hyaluronic acid to plump and moisturize the lips.  It’s been 60 years since Christian Dior imagined dressing women’s smiles, and lipstick was the first beauty product he created.

“Red is the color of life.  Red is the color of passion”

But the stand out shade in the collection is 999, shown at top worn by Natalie Portman and shown below.

This particular shade Dior No. 999, got its number from the first red shades Christian Dior created – the number 9 and the number 99.  This is known as “The Dior Red”, said to be the red shade that every woman can wear.  I love the weight and creaminess of this new formula. Whether you’re a “red” person or not – this really is a wearable shade.  It looks slightly different on women and it can be worn in various ways: full on color out of the tube, or dab it on to get a lighter more “stained” look to the lips, or put the lipstick on lightly with a touch of clear gloss or Dior Lip Maximizer on top are just a few ways 999 can be worn.

As with all things Dior, there is a history connected to the products and packaging.  The lipstick case is designed with the cannage pattern, emblematic in so many of the Christian Dior products.

Of the 32 shades, four are popular shades that are the focus to create countless looks and can be worn by all.  And of course with the connection to the Dior history, each shade name and description has a meaning behind it that follows the many philosophies of Christian Dior.

999 – #999 The Dior red. The absolute icon. This mythical red reinvents Mr. Dior’s first lipsticks numbered 9 and 99. Dior’s timeless elegance, to be worn with jeans, a Bar suit jacket and stilettos.

Trafalgar #844 A sensual coral that reveals its audacity and energy once on the lips. Inspired by the dresses of the same name, designed to impress and used by Mr. Dior to amaze the audience at his shows.

Darling #775  A pink more Dior than ever, inspired by a superb evening gown from the 1948 Spring-Summer collection that became the emblem of radiant and glamorous femininity.

Greige 1947 – #169  A lustrous and elegant nude that gently brightens the complexion. Inspired by the color of the famous Bar Suit jacket presented in 1947, it reflects the sophisticated elegance of a carefully created nude look.

You’ll find there are new lip liners available and many match and are the same names as the Dior Rouge lipsticks (like the four above) and the four iconic shades also have matching nail lacquers as well.   Available at counters now.

Top image from Dior.com, other images property of Fab Over Forty