Design house Rock & Republic has recently launched their own cosmetics line. I know, I was surprised, too. Where have I been? Anyway, we were lucky enough to check out their limited edition lipgloss set.

Truly the standout feature is the packaging. Nestled inside a black box subtly embossed with the iconic R&R logo in purple, is a small, flat compact, about the size of three silver dollars stacked together. The compact, made of metal, is cool, sleek, chic, with a satisfying heft. Rather than fumbling with a classic snap case, a tiny magnet holds the lid closed. I worry that it will open in my purse. So far it hasn’t, but I only carried it for a day. The compact doesn’t seal like a traditional compact, so the potential for leakage in warm climes exists. The compact comes with a retractable lip brush that opens and closes with one quick movement, and seals the tip in, making it purse-safe.

Sadly, the gloss couldn’t live up to its exterior. Confession, the shade we checked out, was a beautiful, flattering, shimmering neutral pink. The gloss is very creamy, not sticky at all, which feels nice on, but doesn’t make for a lasting gloss. I applied some as I was leaving the house; it was gone by the time I arrived at dinner, a mere 20 minutes later. My lips were left bare and a touch on the dry side.

I definitely want to try a couple other products from R&R Cosmetics, in hopes of finding a product where the insides match the outsides.