Red Lips

Red lipstick is a universal classic and has yet to go out of style. Yet many women assume they can't wear it. They're wrong. Here we show you how.

No 1 Pick a blue-based or true red
Pick a blue-based red
Blue-based reds have a slightly cool-looking undertone but yellow-based reds are warmer so they range towards the more orangey/coral side of the fence. Picking a blue-based red is your best bet as its universally flattering and will make your teeth look whiter. Orangey reds, however, will bring out the yellow in your teeth which is never a good look. If you struggle to figure out what kind of red you’re dealing with, don’t be afraid to ask the make-up counter assistant for help. A good one will know the difference.

No 2 Think Big
Red lipstick, or any dark shade for that matter, can make small lips look smaller. If you’ve got a full pout, you’ve got nothing to worry about but if your mouth is a bit on the smaller side, make a point of using lip liner to trace on the outside of your mouth to create the illusion of fuller lips. You could also try wearing a red lip gloss or a clear shimmery gloss over your red lipstick. This will reflect the light and, again, create the illusion of fuller-looking lips. Another way to get around things? Try a sheerer-looking red; like a red tinted lip balm instead.


No 3 Don’t play up your eyes
If you’re wearing red lipstick, let that be the centre of attention on your face. Don’t play up your eyes with heavy make-up or a dramatic smoky look as then you’ll have two features competing for attention and look overly made up. A simply slick of cat-like eye liner or a soft taupe-coloured shadow is all you need.