There is nothing quite as classic as a bold red lip. However, for many, this can be a tricky trend to try.
The good news is there’s no reason to fear the red lip, but the key to getting it right is knowing which red is the right one for you. With so many different shades from which to choose, the answer lies in your complexion.
The trick is it’s not just your skin tone, but also whether you have warm or cool undertones.
Fair skin
If you have fair skin, the wrong red lipstick can sometimes look too stark. To avoid running this risk, if you have cool undertones try a berry shade, which will be much softer for your face. For fair skin with warm undertones, choose a blue-red colour to make your complexion brighter.
Medium skin
Lucky you! This is the easiest skin tone to have when it comes to choosing the right shade of red. Experiment with anything from an orangey red to a fire engine shade, or a show-stopping blood red colour.
Dark skin
Darker skin can handle brighter colours, as there’s less of a contrast compared to fairer skin. Warm tones will also make your skin shine, think a beautiful bright red or even a deep burgundy.
No matter which shade of red you pick, there are a few fast rules to remember that will ensure you’re making a statement in all the right ways.
1. Balance it
Wearing some darker eye makeup will help to balance a bright lip. Amp up your mascara and eyeliner so that your lips don’t steal all the attention from your eyes.
2. Keep it simple
This goes for the rest of your makeup. While ramping up your mascara and eyeliner is a good idea, the same does not apply for your eye shadow. By all means still wear it, but opt for understated neutral and bronze tones, and avoid anything too bright or dramatic. Keep blush and bronzer to a barely-there, sun-kissed look, allowing your lips to do the talking.
3. Less is more
When it comes to your hair, choosing a classic and clean style is always the best way to complement a red lip. If your hairstyle is too fussy, you can end up looking like a doll. Let your hair fall naturally in a smooth and polished style or opt for a sleek, no-fuss hair-up do.
Remember, the essence of red lipstick is to be feminine and fun. Test a few different shades and pick the one that makes you feel the most comfortable and confident. You want your lips to subtly demand attention without screaming for it and taking all the attention away from the rest of your face.
Here are our top four picks that almost anyone can pull off:
1. Sportsgirl, Love Bite Lipstick, $9.95
2. MAC, Kinky Lipstick, $36
3. Topshop, Hazard Lipstick, approx. $16
4. Clinique, Chubby Stick in Jumbo Jasmine, $35
Do you have a favourite go-to red lipstick?
