I don't have any Nars blushes, so I can't help you on that one, but I really love Stratus. I've worn it as a contour and also as a full cheek color. I bought one that had very equal amounts of the dark and light swirls, which works well for my skin tone. You can apply it without buffing and have a noticeable shimmer, or you can buff it in really well and only have a hint of sheen, not to mention you can apply it heavily, lightly or build it up in layers. One thing that looks great is a light application all over the cheeks, blend down well, then do another layer on top just in the contour. Another thing that's nice is to use it just as a contour, but blending upwards so you get a little color fading up the cheek, then apply a touch of brighter, softer color on top in the apples, like Immortal Flower or Lovecloud.
I still say it's better to try it on in person to know for sure if it works for you. It's definitely more for people who like a strong cheek look. There are going to be other blushes this fall with a similar color (although it looks like with more red and/or brown than Stratus), so if you prefer standard powder blush to Mineralize, you could hold off.
PM me ladies! Save the Earthshine! lol
I particularly like doing a strong cheek with a strong red lip, then going really easy on the eye makeup - just mascara and maybe a touch of medium-toned shadow, no liner.
