I love the color red, but I can't figure out how to pull off red lipstick. I never seem to find the right color that doesn't make me look like I am playing dress up. Can you help?
-- Name Withheld
Red lips are the symbol of glamour and sophistication. Contrary to popular belief, everyone can wear red lipstick. The challenge is in finding the right depth and shade to compliment you.
A general guide is that if you have cool undertones, choose a blue-based red, which are more on the pink side. If you have warm or yellow undertones, look for warmer, tomato reds. This may not work for everyone, so the best way to pick out your perfect red is to experiment with different lipsticks and liners until you find one that you like. You would be surprised by how much a lipstick color can change just by changing the lip liner.
Also remember there are different varieties of reds. Brown-based reds are very wearable and compliment many skin tones. Berry and pinkish reds will compliment women with fair skin and dark hair. Mahogany reds and maroons are beautiful on deep complexions.
If you are going for the 50's classic retro look, like Marilyn Monroe or Gwen Stefani, stick with a matte red lipstick. Apply a light layer of foundation to the lips and mouth area to even out skin tone. Using a neutral lip liner, carefully draw a clean line along the edge of your lips, and use the lip liner to fill in with color. This will provide a base for the lipstick and keep the color from bleeding. Apply red lipstick with a lip brush for precision and even application. Blot with a tissue and apply a light dusting of translucent powder to set the color. Finally, apply another layer of lipstick.
A more modern and updated way of wearing red lips is by using a stain or gloss, for that "just bitten" look. This is less dramatic, but equally sexy. Precision is not as important, so you can apply the color straight from the tube without liner. Look for a sheer red, such as Revlon Super Lustrous Gloss in Cherries in the Glow, or a lip stain like Vincent Longo Lip and Cheek Gel Stain. Or, simply fill in your lips with a red lip liner and top off with clear gloss. What is great about this look is that you can still wear red lips to the office without looking too overdone.
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Lisa Phidej has been a freelance makeup artist for 5 years. She is a member of the National Association of Female Executives and is pursuing her entrepreneurial goals to open up her own makeup studio. Lisa currently works in New York City and resides in Westchester, New York.
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