And honestly, let’s be real, “dupe” is the name of the game these days, right? Why spend a fortune on a lipstick when there’s probably something out there that’s, like, 95% the same for a fraction of the cost? I’m all about it.
Now, I haven’t personally tried *every single* lip stain on the planet (though, wouldn’t that be a dream job?), but from what I’ve been snooping around online, people seem to have some suggestions.
See, the thing with 617 is that it’s a…well, it’s kinda hard to pin down, right? It’s that perfect kinda berry-ish, rosy-nude-ish, my-lips-but-better-ish shade that just looks effortlessly cool. It’s not too bright, not too dark, just… *chef’s kiss*. Finding *that* exact vibe is the challenge.
I’ve seen some folks online mention looking at other YSL Water Stains, specifically for formula dupes. The water stain formulas *are* pretty unique. I mean honestly, sometimes it’s more about the texture than the actual color. Like, sure, you could find a lipstick that’s *close* in color, but if it feels all thick and goopy, it’s just not the same, y’know? Someone online mentioned that 603/613 might have some dupes. Maybe you can check them out, and if you find a dupe, you can also check if 617 has one.
Then, there’s the whole “cool-toned vs. warm-toned” thing. I saw someone complaining that Black Honey turned too warm on them (olive skin struggles, I feel you!). So, when you’re looking for a 617 dupe, make SURE it leans cool or neutral. Otherwise, you’ll end up with a shade that looks totally different on you than it does on the models. Like, I thought I could rock an orange-red lipstick once. HUGE mistake. I looked like a clown. Learn from my failures, people!
Honestly, the best thing to do is probably to hit up a drugstore (or Sephora, if you’re feeling fancy) and just swatch a bunch of stuff. Take a picture of the YSL 617 on your phone and compare it to everything you can find.
