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I have never been the girl to rock a red lip, not because I am not a fan, but more due to the fact it never has looked quite right on me. Thanks to some extensive red-lip research, I realized I just didn’t know what I was doing in regards to choosing and applying red lipstick. If you are one of the many ladies who have been dodging all crimson lip colors, you may want to revisit that thought after you read the rest of this post…

I know I did (and the result was fabulous)!

• Here are some essential tips to help you master the red lip:
• + First & foremost, determine if you have thin or full lips. Individuals with thinner lips should avoid deep reds as it will only make them look thinner—instead go for something more bright! Now, for the ladies with fuller lips: you should try a deeper and darker shade of crimson.
• + Next, you need to know your skin tone. Different shades of red can either compliment your skin, or wash it out, which is why it so important you find the perfect color for you. If you have fair skin, you should opt for reds with cooler & bluer undertones. For all of you with medium skin, you’ll look best when wearing warmer reds with brownish undertones. Lastly, for you dark skinned beauties—try a red lipstick that has a pink, purple, or orange base to it.
• + Consider the occasion. If you’re a hard-workin’ woman, stick to reds that are softer. If you’re going out for a night on the town, go for a deeper/bolder red!
• + Keep it simple everywhere else. If you want to rock a red lip, let that be the center of attention, and keep the rest of your makeup simple & natural.
• + Avoid bleeding. Put concealer around the outside of your lip/corners of your mouth to make sure your lipstick doesn’t venture outside the lines.
• + Utilize liner. Don’t get a lip liner to match the color of your lipstick, but instead try to match it to the color of your lips sans color. Using that shade, line the inside of your lips, which will also help curb bleeding.
• + Watch the teeth. After applying your perfect red, check a mirror and get any excess color of your teeth. That is most definitely a big red lipstick NO-NO!

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