Trending
Black Honey Almost Lipstick
Here is the story behind Clinique cult classics. We highlight the innovation and benefits behind the product.
From gooey gloss to Almost Lipstick
Black Honey was first launched in a gloss pot. In fact, Clinique founder Carol Phillips named it Black Honey because the texture of the gloss looked like a yummy, gooey pot of honey. Yes, that was the ‘70s. Black Honey had a second breakthrough moment in 1989, when it debuted as what it is now: Almost Lipstick in Black Honey. At the time, women were juggling careers, family, and chasing their dreams more than ever; convenience was key. And the makeup trend was full-coverage, intense color. Enter a new alternative—and a solution. Almost Lipstick put flawless Black Honey color in a sleek, chic tube that could fit in any bag and be applied in a flash. A cross between gloss and lipstick, Almost Lipstick feels incredible to wear, has shine but isn’t sticky, and gives lips that just-ate-a-plum look while being easy to wash off.
Black Honey is often referred to as the makeup equivalent of a chic, black turtleneck; there’s no guesswork involved, just easy confidence. And because it looks great—and different—on everyone, it’s the secret beauty weapon that people are genuinely happy to tell their friends about. Decades after it first hit makeup counters, there still isn’t a lip shade around that can hold a candle to this your-lips-but-better color. We also love how this review sums up why it’s a cult classic.
