Today sees the launch of Lime Crime in Space NK stores nationwide. The brand, masterminded by Doe Deere, a New York based make-up artist, model and blogger, is a range of high pigment lipsticks that pair outrageously bold shades with a creamy formula. The tagline ‘so bright, it’s illegal’ seems extremely fitting.

Last night I met Doe who told me she wanted to inspire young people to start wearing lipstick again. “Lipstick is so hot right now, it’s invading the youth” says Doe. She says “lipstick gives you confidence” but it can be a “gradual process”. If you haven’t worn a bold lippie before Doe suggests wearing it at home to get used to the idea. “Do the vacuuming or wash the dishes in it”. Another top tip: “apply a slick of lip balm on before the lipstick, this will give you a more sheer effect” says Doe.

It may seem strange that Space NK have taken on another lipstick brand  -  they currently stock Poppy King’s Lipstick Queen range too. But Doe tells me her and Poppy are firm friends. After all, they are working towards the same goal of making lipstick popular again.

While Poppy’s range is about finding the perfect lipstick for you, Lime Crime is about having fun, experimenting and making a statement. I couldn’t bring myself to try the black or blue shades but every other shade, while daring, are beautiful and extremely wearable. I tried the Airbourne Unicorn shade, fyi.

Incidentally, Lime Crime actually started selling high pigment eyeshadows then lipsticks through limecrimemakeup.com. Doe hopes Space NK will snap the shadows up to sell in stores later this year. Watch this space.

Here’s my verdict on the lipsticks:

Lime Crime Lipsticks, £14 each at Space NK

The claim: “Combining the highest quality technicolour pigments with a touch of humour and a splash of fantasy, Lime Crime is the perfect accessory to achieve this season’s statement opaque lip colour”

Pros: The pigments in these lipsticks are just as they look in the bullet – super intense. Also, there is no pay off between the shades and texture, these lipsticks feel moisturising on my lips and last for hours.

Cons: I’m sorry but there is just no way I will ever wear a blue or black lipstick unless I’m in fancy dress, great for some maybe, but not for me. You need to really prime your lips when wearing bold colour, so make sure to exfoliate with an old toothbrush first.

Verdict: A fun range of colours that are great quality too.

 Click here to visit Space NK...

UPDATE: Since writing this post I have been alerted to the fact that some people find these lipsticks drying, staining and expensive. I didn't experience problems with the formula of the two shades I tried - Airbourne Unicorn and My Beautiful Rocket. However, if you are concerned about the formula and feel of the lipstick I recommend going to a Space NK store before a night out or as your first stop on a shopping trip; ask the shop assistant to apply the shade you are interested in and then wear it for a good few hours to see how it feels and lasts for you. If you want a cheaper alternative, head to the Barry M counters (stocked in Superdrug) which offer an extensive range of bold lipstick shades for £4.25 each.

Click here to visit the Barry M website...