The Velvet Gloss Lip Pencil by NARS features a nice array of comfortable to wear glossy colors in a jumbo lip pencil that requires sharpening (the only downfall in the design is that it isn't a twist up lip pencil).

NARS describes Velvet Gloss Lip Pencils as,

Gorgeously glossy color in a jumbo lip pencil. Spectacular shine in an innovative, lightweight formula and enriched with Vitamin E plus a blend of moisture-rich hyaluronic spheres that make lips appear fuller.

• Ultra smooth, buttery feel on the lips
• Contains vitamin E, hyaluronic spheres and phytosterol esthers; ingredients known to moisturize, increase hydration and improve barrier function
• Convenient, easy application

Mexican Rose is a newer color that was introduced to the permanent range from the NARS Spring 2012 Collection. It is described as a Hot pink color which is a pretty accurate description. It has a nice glossy finish and it can be fairly sheer if barely applied to the lips, however it very quickly builds up to an opaque finish that can be quite bright. The formula is thin and non-sticky and feels a bit more like a lip balm than a lipstick or  a lip gloss. I find that it gives decent wear time- about 4 hours, but even once the gloss wears away it leaves my lips stained all day long. After prolonged wear I find that it chaps my lips, therefore I have to wear a lip balm underneath. I haven't heard anyone else make this complaint- so it might be that I have a sensitivity to one of the ingredients in this particular color.

In the swatches below you will find that the left swatch is applied with a lighter hand than the one on the right.

Outdoor lighting in the shade

Outdoor lighting in the sun

Outdoor lighting in the direct sun

Overall assessment: This is a gorgeous color with great color pay off that is comfortable to wear.  My two complaints are that I would prefer a twist up applicator to one that requires sharpening, and that it causes my lips to become chapped after prolonged use when I don't wear it over a lip balm.