I bought this Laura Mercier Lip Pencil in Plumberry the same time I got the two lipsticks in Dry Rose and Audrey. Plumberry is not necessarily the perfect match for either, but it's an lovely rosy shade that looks natural on my lips and makes for an excellent base for the above Laura Mercier lipsticks as well as for others.

The most significant quality of Laura Mercier's lip liners is the just soft enough formula that isn't drying. I use it to fill the lip surface when I need my lip color to really last and resist drinks. The pencil (its main ingredient is Hydrogenated Palm Kernel Glycerides) spreads easily and doesn't make my lips look or feel parched, making it a real asset.

Laura Mercier lip pencils come with their own sharpener, which is something I appreciate. It's a little thing that makes life just a little easier.

Bottom Line: an essential.

Laura Mercier Lip Pencil ($20) comes in 12 shades and is available from the counters, Sephora and lauramercier.com.