Finding the perfect red lipstick can feel like a quest for the Holy Grail. It’s a color that demands attention, exudes confidence, and can instantly transform your look. But with so many different shades of red, how do you know which one is right for you?
This guide will help you navigate the world of red lipsticks and find the shade that complements your skin tone, personal style, and the occasion. From classic crimson to bold scarlet and everything in between, we’ll explore the different shades of red lipstick and how to wear them.
Understanding Your Skin Tone
The first step in finding your perfect red lipstick is understanding your skin tone. There are three main skin tone categories:
Warm: Warm skin tones have golden or yellow undertones. You might have brown, olive, or peachy skin.
Cool: Cool skin tones have pink or blue undertones. You might have fair, rosy, or porcelain skin.
Neutral: Neutral skin tones have a balance of warm and cool undertones. You might have beige or olive skin.
Once you know your skin tone, you can start to narrow down your red lipstick choices.
Warm Skin Tones:
Best reds: Brick, coral, orange-red, copper, brown-based reds.
To avoid: Blue-based reds, bright reds, and cool-toned reds.
Example: “I love warm skin tones with brick reds. It’s a classic look that’s both elegant and flattering.” – Isabelle LaFleur, Makeup Artist
Cool Skin Tones:
Best reds: Blue-based reds, berry reds, cherry reds, magenta reds.
To avoid: Orange-based reds, warm-toned reds, and yellow-based reds.
Example: “Cool skin tones look amazing in blue-based reds. These shades enhance the natural pink in your skin.” – Daniel Rodriguez, Makeup Artist
Neutral Skin Tones:
Best reds: Most shades of red will work! You can experiment with warm, cool, and neutral reds.
To avoid: Avoid shades that are too extreme, like very bright or very dark reds.
Example: “Neutral skin tones have the luxury of wearing almost any red. Have fun experimenting and finding your favorites!” – Sarah Thompson, Makeup Artist
Considering Your Hair Color
Your hair color can also play a role in choosing the right red lipstick. Here’s a breakdown of the best red shades for different hair colors:
Blonde Hair:
Best reds: Peachy reds, coral reds, orange-based reds, and bright reds.
To avoid: Dark reds, berry reds, and cool-toned reds.
Brunette Hair:
Best reds: Cherry reds, wine reds, deep reds, and berry reds.
To avoid: Pale reds, light reds, and peachy reds.
Red Hair:
Best reds: Orange reds, copper reds, brick reds, and deep reds.
To avoid: Blue-based reds, bright reds, and very dark reds.
Matching Your Red Lipstick to the Occasion
The occasion can also influence your choice of red lipstick.
Daytime:
Best reds: Light reds, peachy reds, coral reds, and warm-toned reds.
To avoid: Dark reds, berry reds, and very bold reds.
Evening:
Best reds: Deep reds, cherry reds, burgundy reds, and wine reds.
To avoid: Pale reds, light reds, and overly bright reds.
Special Occasions:
Best reds: Classic reds, bold reds, and statement reds.
To avoid: Overly casual reds, muted reds, and reds that are too trendy.
Top Red Lipstick Shades for Every Skin Tone
Here are some of the most popular red lipstick shades and which skin tones they complement:
Warm Skin Tones:
- MAC Ruby Woo: A classic true red with a cool undertone.
- NARS Velvet Matte Lip Pencil in Dragon Girl: A bold, vibrant red with a warm undertone.
- Fenty Beauty Stunna Lip Paint Longwear Fluid Lip Color in Uncensored: A rich, pigmented red with a cool undertone.
Cool Skin Tones:
- Tom Ford Lip Color Matte in True Coral: A vibrant, coral-toned red with a cool undertone.
- Chanel Rouge Allure Velvet Extreme in La Rouge: A deep, velvety red with a cool undertone.
- Dior Rouge Dior Ultra Rouge Lipstick in 999: A classic bright red with a cool undertone.
Neutral Skin Tones:
- Kylie Cosmetics Matte Liquid Lipstick in Posie K: A muted, pink-toned red with a neutral undertone.
- Estée Lauder Pure Color Envy Sculpting Lipstick in Rebellious Rose: A vibrant, cherry-toned red with a neutral undertone.
- Giorgio Armani Rouge D’Armani Matte Lipstick in 400: A deep, burgundy red with a neutral undertone.
Tips for Wearing Red Lipstick
Here are some tips for wearing red lipstick like a pro:
- Exfoliate your lips: This will help your lipstick apply smoothly and evenly.
- Use a lip liner: A lip liner will help define your lips and prevent your lipstick from bleeding.
- Apply lipstick in thin coats: This will help the color build up and last longer.
- Blot your lips: This will help remove excess lipstick and create a more matte finish.
- Carry a lipstick mirror: This will help you touch up your lipstick throughout the day.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What if I don’t know my skin tone?
A: Don’t worry, you can experiment with different shades of red and see what works best for you.
Q: What if I’m scared to wear red lipstick?
A: Start with a lighter red shade or a tinted lip balm. You can build up to bolder shades as you feel more confident.
Q: How do I find the right red lipstick online?
A: Many online retailers have tools that allow you to filter lipstick shades by skin tone, hair color, and occasion.
Q: What are some other colors that look good with red lipstick?
A: Red lipstick pairs well with neutral eyeshadows, black eyeliner, and a light blush.
Q: What’s the best way to remove red lipstick?
A: Use a makeup remover specifically designed for lips.
Conclusion
Finding your perfect red lipstick is a journey of self-discovery and experimentation. Don’t be afraid to try different shades and see what works best for you. Remember, red lipstick is a statement of confidence, and with a little effort, you can find the shade that makes you feel your most beautiful.
