A VioletteFR Bisou Balm Addict and A Mother's Love for Shoes
Today, I'm pulling back the curtain on a tale close to my heart – one that weaves together the passions of a spirited mother and her lipstick-loving daughter.
A Mother's Love for Shoes: A Window into Her Soul
My dearest mama was a 100% shoe fanatic in her later years – closets of shoes in boxes neatly stacked. Some were never worn. She lived alone (much to my chagrin and requests for her to move in with us). Her social calendar was the envy of many – she was a darling at the local senior center, a bingo queen, and oh, her dancing! Let me tell you, she could steal the show with her moves. Her zest for life was as vibrant as her shoe collection. One day, curiosity got the better of me, and I asked, "Mom, what's with the shoe obsession?" Her story tugged at my heartstrings. In the depths of the Great Depression, with her dad gone too soon, mom and her sister were sent to an orphanage. Tough times, tougher choices. She recalled shoes with holes so big; they were patched up with cardboard and newspaper. Hearing this, I saw her shoe collection in a new light – each pair a triumph over her past struggles.
A Mother’s Love for Shoes
Our bond grew deeper. I started asking more, learning about the incredible woman who raised "four beautiful daughters," as she proudly said. Our chats became treasure troves of life, lessons and laughter.
From Shoes to Lipsticks: A Daughter's Ode to Joy
Now, for my side of the story – I've no understandable reason for my obsession, but it is undeniable! I'm talking about a collection that brings out the giddy in me. Balms, stains, lacquers, mattes, gloss – you name it, I've probably got it. My makeup drawer is a rainbow of colors, but the stars? The Bisou Balm Sheer Matte Lipsticks from Violette-FR. They're my daily dose of happiness.
Couldn't stop at one. All of a sudden, I owned all five! And each one of the five shades tells a story:
Amour Fou: a soft crimson whisper of color; literally mad love, denotes uncontrollable or obsessive passion or infatuation
Bêtise: The original “bouche mordue” or “just bitten lips” shade.
Sucette: a sensual, bright raspberry pink. The shade name, Sucette, means lollipop
Guimauve: a soft coral with a touch of spice, that leaves you feeling fresh
Calisson: a warm, tender beige - the perfect neutral lip
But there's more to these balms than meets the eye. They're a celebration of natural beauty and confidence, something I've grown to cherish as I've matured. And let's not forget the practical side – those little tubes are lifesavers for those pesky lip lines, thanks to their blurring effect. You don't need a mirror or lip liner, just swipe and go. Beautifully silky and sheer, but easily buildable if you dare.
And of course, they are vegan, cruelty-free, have safe and effective ingredients, and are environmentally-conscious.
Customer Reviews are 4.3 out of 5 for 1750 total reviews
Celebrating Beauty Across Generations
This story of shoes and lipstick is more than just about fashion – it's a toast to the enduring beauty and resilience of women at every age. It's about finding joy in the little things, cherishing memories, and passing on stories that connect generations.
According to Violette Serrat, a French makeup artist and the founder of Violette_FR, “in France, after red lipstick, our favorite lip look is called ‘bouche mordue’ or ‘just bitten lips.’ The do-it-yourself way to do it is to apply lip balm and add a touch of lipstick – creating a subtle flush of color that looks fresh and natural. I’ve always been obsessed with capturing this effect and improving upon it – creating a formula that would mimic the true texture of your own lips. In order to do so, I had to design something that would be sheer, comfortable, and hydrating but also blurring and most importantly, matte. It had to leave behind *just* the right amount of pigment but also supply a satisfying pout. Achieving all of these qualities has required so many iterations, but it’s been a true labor of love and my lips are thanking me for it.”
So, here's to my mom, who taught me the value of cherishing life's journey, and to all the wonderful women out there who find joy in their unique passions. Thank you, Violette.
Keep shining, and most importantly, keep being you. Because it's not just about shoes or lipstick; it's about the stories they tell and the lives they touch. Whether you're 30 or 90, there's always room for a little extra sparkle in your life. Keep celebrating your style, your way!
What are your cherished style memories? Share your stories and let's keep the conversation going!
*Disclaimer:
I handpick every single product I share with you because they've genuinely won my heart. I only recommend things I've personally tried and adored. A massive shoutout to all of you who've taken the time to read this review – it means the world to me! Just so you know, all these luscious items are bought by yours truly. 🌟💄❤️