V for Victory (Red) - Organized Chaos

This post includes some content written several years ago.

How I began wearing Besame Cosmetics:

I’ve been a red lipstick lover for years. Several years ago I was doing a Google search for something 40s makeup related and a few of the links I went to mentioned Bésame Cosmetics. I had never heard of the brand before. Being a fan of all things vintage beauty, my interest was piqued and I wanted to check it out.

I went to the website, and really appreciated the beautiful packaging and the variety of red lipsticks available. I also learned about the Agent Carter 1946 collection. Unfortunately, I found out about this a few months after the fact and most of it was sold out or now longer available. I did find the powder and eyeshadow palette on another site and ended up purchasing those.

At that time, they were offering a special set with Victory Red lipstick and nail polish and a cool looking pin. I ended up ordering that and a Red Velvet lipstick.

Here is what that set looked like:

A cosmetics set containing a lipstick, nailpolish, and a pin.

Here it is unboxed:

A red lipstick and nailpolish on a dresser with a pin.

Trying the products:

My order came and I tried the lipstick and nail polish. I had read a number of reviews of the color and was looking forward to wearing it. I was also slightly apprehensive because several reviews talked about the squared off shape of the lipstick being awkward to use and that the lipstick transfers easily.

Once I put it on I knew I had nothing to worry about.

The lipstick applied easily and I had little trouble with the shape. (The fact that I have full lips might help with that. Someone with thin lips might find it a bit more challenging..)

I had been concerned that it would have too much slip or be greasy. Instead, I found that the texture was semi-matte as promised and felt like nothing on my lips.

I followed the suggestion to apply, then blot, then apply again. I found that left a nice finish with little transferring. (There was still some transfer though. Those who prefer ultra matte lipsticks might not like that. I personally don’t worry about that or care if lipstick transfers a little.)

I didn’t try eating with it on because I generally remove my lipstick before eating or drinking because I don’t like eating lipstick. Overall I am very happy with it and would buy it again.

Above is how the lipstick looks on.

2024 Update:

This year, Besame came out with a new Victory Red set. It includes the lipstick in new packaging, and a new V for Victory pin.

A set with a lipstick and a red, white, and blue pin.

The lipstick formula is the same now as it was a few years ago, but the component is now larger. Here is a picture comparing the new lipstick with an older one. You can see both components have the same vintage styling and same floral design.