The MAC Nutcracker Sweet collection launched in the UK whilst I was in New York and as the U.S gets the latest launches a week before we do, the collection had all but sold out in both locations before I had a chance to snag a few of the key products (the face kits were the things dreams are made of). I was however fortunate enough to receive two of the new MAC Nutcracker Sweet lipsticks and one of the best-selling MAC Khol pencils too - perfect for creating a subdued yet polished festive look, be it for a party, work or a stroll around the local supermarket (I really do live my best life, don't I").

The first thing that I noticed and inevitably want to mention about the MAC Nutcracker Sweet collection is the packaging. I rather like that MAC have side stepped the traditional festive and often garish colours associated with the season, and settled on a refined palette of bright pink, plum and hints of gold. It's modern, quirky, unexpected and frankly perfectly presented to create a memorable gift - I'm not here to judge if that person happens to be yourself.
If you buy one thing from the MAC Nutcracker Sweet collection, let it be MAC So Good for You Lipstick (£17); this blue based red, almost veers on coral which surprisingly makes it a little easier to wear than your traditional and classic red - not to mention a little more special too. MAC have described this as a matte formulation but I would describe it to be more of a satin as it has a slight sh...