During my last trip to the Estee Lauder Company Store, I purchased Mac's Solar Riche Bronzing Powder, which was from the Style Warrior collection. I bought it out of impulse because of the packaging and most importantly, the price. Some people might think that the compact looks tacky and I kind of have to agree because I'm not a big fan of leopard print myself, but the bronze packaging sold me. It just looks so pretty sitting alongside my other bronzers on my West Elm vanity (review).
Natural Lighting
Besides the packaging, I am most excited about the price because it was $14.75. If I had bought it from the Mac store, it would have cost me $21.00.
Direct Sunlight
The product itself is not too unique. When swatched, it bears a striking resemblance to my Dior Bronze Original Tan in Amber Tan 03 (review & swatches). They both look dead orange. The only difference is that Solar Riche is a little bit lighter and has a more reddish undertone to it.
As for the finish, Solar Riche is not completely matte, but it doesn't give that nice glow or sheen that other satin bronzers give. Under direct sunlight, it looks a teeny tiny bit shimmery, but it's very subtle and still safe to wear during the day. Also, Amber Tan has slight sheen and makes my face look a little bit glowy. It definitely has a better finish and looks prettier than Solar Riche, but the difference of the finish between them is faint. Bottom line, if you already have Amber Tan, there is really no need for Solar Riche.
The Too Faced Chocolate Soleil bronzer (review & swatches), on the other hand, has a strong brown undertone to it, and is quite different than the other 2 bronzers overall because it gives a more natural look and is best used for contouring.
As for the finish, Solar Riche is not completely matte, but it doesn't give that nice glow or sheen that other satin bronzers give. Under direct sunlight, it looks a teeny tiny bit shimmery, but it's very subtle and still safe to wear during the day. Also, Amber Tan has slight sheen and makes my face look a little bit glowy. It definitely has a better finish and looks prettier than Solar Riche, but the difference of the finish between them is faint. Bottom line, if you already have Amber Tan, there is really no need for Solar Riche.
The Too Faced Chocolate Soleil bronzer (review & swatches), on the other hand, has a strong brown undertone to it, and is quite different than the other 2 bronzers overall because it gives a more natural look and is best used for contouring.
It is also important to note that Solar Riche and Amber Tan both suit my warm complexion really well; however, I find them to be too orangey for lighter beauties. For reference, I'm a Mac NC30/35, Dior Forever 021 mixed with 031, MUFE HD 127 and L'oreal True Match W4.
By the way, it's always being repromoted by Mac in Limited Edition collections, including Neo-Sci Fi and Surf Baby. So, if you really like this kind of bronzer shade, then I recommend grabbing Solar Riche because it contains the same amount of product (10 grams) as Amber Tan and it's a cheaper alternative too. (Amber Tan costs $44.)
Are you a fan of orangey bronzers?
*This post contains affiliate links. None of the products mentioned are sponsored.
