Chanel True Blue 57 Eyeliner Review: Disappointment Awaits

When it comes to makeup, especially eyeliner, the anticipated excitement can quickly turn into disappointment if the product fails to deliver. This was the case with the Chanel True Blue 57 Stylo Yeux Waterproof Eyeliner released as part of the Summer 2013 L'Ete Papillon de Chanel collection. With a vibrant hue that promises a summery freshness, one would expect a stellar performance. Unfortunately, this particular eyeliner did not meet those expectations due to its lackluster application and subpar formulation, leaving many fans of the brand—including myself—seeking alternatives within the collection.

A Colorful Promise: Chanel True Blue 57 Stylo Yeux Waterproof Eyeliner

Chanel has long been synonymous with luxury and elegance in the beauty industry, conjuring images of glamorous evenings and sophisticated soirées. The summer collection of 2013 aimed to embody the essence of summer with hues inspired by the ocean and skies. The True Blue 57 Stylo Yeux Waterproof Eyeliner represented one of the standout shades in this collection: a bright and vivid sky blue. Though the color sparked a lot of interest among beauty enthusiasts, the product itself sadly did not live up to the brand’s iconic reputation.

First Impressions: The Aesthetic Appeal

At first sight, the Chanel True Blue eyeliner looks stunning. The packaging reflects the brand’s signature elegance, and the bright blue color sets the stage for a summer-ready makeup look. The color is undeniably pretty, reminiscent of a clear summer sky, making it a tempting addition for any makeup lover. However, aesthetics alone cannot sustain performance, and initial excitement often gives way to scrutiny when it comes to the application and wearability of the product.

Application Woes: A Lesson in Disappointment

Despite the enticing color, the process of applying the Chanel True Blue 57 proved to be frustrating. Many users, myself included, found that the pencil required excessive pressure to deposit color. An eyeliner should glide effortlessly across the eyelid, but instead, this formula exhibited a tendency to skip and tug at the delicate skin, which can lead to discomfort and an uneven application. Moreover, compounding the issue was the pencil's softness—often a positive attribute in eyeliners, but here it became detrimental. Soft pencils should allow for smooth application, but this one was prone to breakage, leading users to question its overall durability. One must be cautious with such a product; the combination of a stretchy, breakable pencil and lack of color payoff can result in a disappointing experience.

Comparative Performance with Other Products

For those familiar with the Chanel Stylo Yeux range, the disparity in performance is particularly disheartening. Previous releases, like the Santal shade, delivered exceptional quality, showing how variable the brand’s offerings can be. It is perplexing how one product can shine, while others fall flat; this inconsistency leaves consumers frustrated and longing for the reliability that the Chanel brand is known for.

Bright Spots: Other Products from the Collection

While the True Blue 57 Stylo Yeux Waterproof Eyeliner was a letdown, not all was lost within the L'Ete Papillon de Chanel collection. The eye shadows released as part of this line outshone the eyeliner, offering a rich, vibrant palette that encapsulated the summer theme beautifully. Shades like Cool Gold and Moon River became immediate favorites amid fans for their high pigmentation and smooth application, essentially making up for the eyeliner's deficiencies.

Seeking Alternatives: What to Look For in a Summer Eyeliner

With so many options available now, those who were disappointed by the Chanel True Blue eyeliner may benefit from exploring other brands that offer vibrant colors and a reliable application experience. Here are key traits to look for when searching for the perfect summer eyeliner:

1. Smooth Application

The texture of the eyeliner is crucial. Look for products that glide on smooth and do not require excessive pressure to achieve the desired color payoff. Gel or liquid formulas can often provide a more seamless application than traditional pencil formats.

2. Long-Lasting Wear

Choose waterproof or long-wearing formulations that can withstand the heat and humidity of summer days. Eyeliners that promise all-day wear without smudging or fading are ideal for those long beach days or summer nights out.

3. Vibrant Pigmentation

A well-pigmented eyeliner ensures that the color stands out and does not require multiple applications to reach the desired intensity. Opt for brands known for their color quality, which can elevate even the simplest makeup looks.

4. Easy Removal

While a long-lasting eyeliner is desirable, it’s equally important that it can be removed easily at the end of the day. Formulas that break down with makeup removers or cleansing oils are easier to work with, preventing unnecessary tugging on the delicate eye area.

Final Thoughts

The Chanel True Blue 57 Stylo Yeux Waterproof Eyeliner showcased the beautiful spirit of summer through its vibrant hue but ultimately fell short in terms of performance. Although it was a disappointment for many beauty enthusiasts, the experience serves as a reminder of the importance of testing and exploring various products to find what works best for individual needs. Eyeliners are an essential part of any makeup kit, and finding the right one can vastly enhance the overall look. As we delve into new seasons, let us remember to approach each new release with an open mind but also a discerning attitude.