'This is my new favorite lipstick—it's a really fun alternative to classic red,” my friend Bianca told me. The hue in question? Lancôme's Color Design Matte Lip Color in Posh Pink. The venerable French company hired me to do a photo diary, so I took to the streets and snapped some of my favorite NYC girls in seven of the ultra-creamy shades. Needless to say, Bianca wasn't the only one who was impressed. Everyone's in the mood for a “statement lip' these days, and there are zillions of offerings. I, for one, prefer rich color, slightly matte, with no sparkles, shimmer or frost. But matte formulas are often drying, and moisturizing formulas tend to slide off your mouth. Enter Color Design. The texture is heaven. The colors are spot on. Make room in your purse.

Maria in Stylista, Bianca in Posh Pink, Erin in Corset, Kelly in Plum Show, Chelsea in Lucky Kiss, Emerald in Red Haute, and Lena in Pink Preview.