CITYist

Cyndi Lauper and Lady Gaga appeared on the “Today Show” a few weeks back as ambassadors for MAC’s VIVA GLAM line, which benefits men, women and children living with HIV/AIDS. The interview was remarkable due to two things: Lauper’s ability to simultaneously dole out career advice to Gaga while warning of the dangers of unprotected sex, and Lady Gaga’s wisdom beyond her years. Nearly ignoring the interviewers, the two chatted about the trajectories of their own stardom and the need for women to take control of their lives and bodies. Amidst all the pop fabulosity, however, they were there for one thing and one thing only: to sell their two limited-edition lipsticks, of which one hundred percent of the sales price will go to the MAC AIDS fund.

Lauper chose a light coral red for her lipstick in a high-lustre sheen. Gaga’s pout of choice, however, is described as a “blue-pink”—essentially, a cool bubblegum blush hue. Along with the proceeds, Gaga and Lauper send messages to their respective age groups (Lauper, in her 50s, and Gaga, in her 20s, represent the women most likely to get infected): “be selective about who you love.”