Red lips should no longer be banished to black tie events. Red lipstick, once reserved solely for ‘that evening look’, can absolutely be worn — whenever you damn well feel like it.
While it has to be said that although red lipstick has stood the test of time as a glamour staple, it can be an intimidating colour to wear on a casual, daily basis, and the common fear of not being able to pull it off continues to stop even the most dedicated lipstick devotee from realising their full red-lipped potential.
I say break free! There is a red lipstick out there for everyone, for any occasion. So whether you’re a veteran or rookie in the realm of red, these tried and true classic hues from the pros help make red a more accessible lip colour for any time of the day.
Red lipstick for dummies
Precision: This is key when attempting a red lip — it is not a look to be achieved willy-nilly in the back of a taxi. Avoid the scary clown look and find a mirror. Kiekie Stanners, MAC Cosmetics’ New Zealand national artist, suggests: “Apply your red lipstick with a brush to ensure a perfect application.”
Use a liner: Get your lippy application down pat by starting with a liner that’s the same shade. Anna Hardman from Revlon New Zealand recommends a liner: “It ensures the perfect line and helps prevent lipstick bleeding.”
Keep it simple up top: If you’re wearing a bold lip colour, don’t go overboard with your eye makeup; let your lips do the talking. Kiekie says: “Wear a classic red lip as the key feature of your makeup, keeping skin fresh and creamy, and eyes more natural.”
Keep your lips hydrated: The crumbly, flaky look ain’t a good one, so prep your lips with a gentle exfoliant and choose a moisturising lipstick if you’re prone to chapping.
Lipstick, not teethstick: The old thumb trick should sort this problem out. After applying your choice of rouge, put your thumb in your mouth and gently press your lips together while gliding your thumb back out, removing excess product.
Take the leap: Worried you won’t pull it off? Just go for it — it’s only lipstick. And what better time to trial your new red pout than this Valentine’s Day?