Two French brands wanted to go up, up and away this spring with some balloon-themed offerings…but only one will make it to the stratosphere. Let's get ready to rummmmbbbblllllle! *ding ding*
On one side of the ring we have Lancôme My Parisian Pastels Shimmer Cube. A très cute girl wearing a pink top, polka dotted skirt and pink shoes sets out for a stroll with her dog on the rooftops of Paris. The bunch of colorful balloons she holds seem ready to take flight, all set to join the others floating in the distance. I'm not sure who was responsible for the illustration (I don't think it's Kerrie Hess, whom Lancôme worked with previously) but it's so perfectly Parisian.
The metal tin is tough enough to withstand any blows from its opponent.
Even the dog has a pink collar! Lancôme deals a strong right hook (bite?) with this detail.
Les Merveilleuses Ladurée's spring palette, however, isn't getting knocked down so easily. Ladurée retaliates with a lovely palette adorned with vintage-inspired illustrations of hot air balloons peacefully drifting against a pale blue sky. The purple ribbon, while delicate and silky, is actually a practical addition as it functions to keep the palette closed.
While Lancôme's illustration may have been completed by an actual artist and Ladurée's balloons resemble the results you'd get if you searched "vintage hot air balloon wallpaper" (seriously, try it), we don't know the name of the Lancôme artist; therefore, the illustration's power is somewhat diminished. Plus, Ladurée at least attempted customization of their slightly generic, clip-art-esque dirigibles. The details on the larger balloons, like the large script "M" and the signature cameos that are featured on nearly all products in the makeup line, pummel Lancôme's rather plain versions.
The inside of the palette features more delightful balloon illustrations and an elegant layout overall, in stark contrast to the interior of the Lancôme tin, which looks painfully similar to children's crayons or chalk.
But wait! Lancôme reveals a secret weapon to hold off their adversary: a truly magical ad for their spring collection. This is a huge turn of events! Ladurée has no such campaign for their spring lineup.
Lancôme's sturdy metal case, chic Parisienne, and surprise attack with a whimsical promo all prove they've got the capacity to flatten their rival. But despite this, LM Ladurée's larger size, dainty yet resilient ribbon, and variety of balloon designs full of vintage charm may still send Lancôme down for the count. Which one will be deflated…er, defeated? Tell me in the comments! (Also tell me whether you think either of these designs surpass Guerlain's Poudre aux Ballons, or this excellent 2013 ad.)