HOW TO MASTER THE HOLIDAY RED LIP

Nothing says holidays more than the iconic red lip. It is timeless and classic, but can be a bit daunting to achieve. Today, I will share my best tips to master the holiday red lip and my favorite shades that will work on anyone. A red lip does require a bit of confidence to pull off, but why not give it a try? It is fun to try something new and it is only makeup after all. I have included a few budget friendly options, so you can give it a try without putting a big dent in your wallet.

*Pro-tip: If you should decide it is not for you, just keep the receipt. Cosmetics are returnable, even if they have been used. Trust me, I know. I was in retail for years and people would return completely empty jars of expensive moisturizer and say it didn’t work for them. I am certainly not encouraging that, but if you try something and it truly doesn’t work for you, a reputable company will take it back with a receipt.

HOW TO MASTER THE HOLIDAY RED LIP

Exfoliate your lips. Nothing will ruin a red lips faster than dry, flaky lips. Before you attempt this makeup look, make sure to exfoliate your lips first. You can use your toothbrush and a bit of sugar, or use a good lip scrub. I really like this one and this one. After exfoliating, apply a good lip balm and move on to do the rest of your makeup.

Keep the rest of your makeup simple. The red lip makes a bold statement and you don’t want the rest of your face to compete with that. Make sure your complexion is even and your eye makeup is minimal.

Don’t apply lip color directly from the tube. This is one of the biggest mistakes and will most likely make you fail. When applying red lipstick, you need to be very precise. The best way is to use a lip brush and take a bit of color and apply it to your lips with that brush. Take your time and start with the outline and then fill in the rest of your lip.

SHOP THIS POST:

You don’t need a red lip liner. Contrary to popular belief, you do not need a lipliner to match your lipstick. I have one lip liner in my professional kit that I use on everyone and with every lip color. It is the perfect lip colored shade and works to perfect every lip shape, no matter what lip color you use. Line your lips after applying your lip color, in short feathery strokes, to perfect lips without leaving an obvious outline.

Stop pulling a face. Another mistake many women make, is to pull open their mouth in an o shape when applying lip color. This prevents you from seeing your actual lip shape. Keep your mouth closed and relaxed for the most natural look.

Use a brightening liner to fix mistakes. If you make a mistake, use a bit of concealer on a lip brush or this skin toned liner to reverse line your lips. It comes in 3 shades. This one is also a favorite. I recommend investing in one, as it has many uses I share in this blog post.

I usually take a tissue and blot any excess lip color before applying a bit of translucent powder and then applying another thin coat of color.

Here are some of my favorite red lipsticks that flatter anyone:

PIXI MATTE LAST LIQUID LIP in Berry Boost // This is more of a berry shade, but qualifies as a red in my book. It is a stunning blue red and feels comfortable on the lips as it dries. So, so pretty!

MAYBELLINE SUPERSTAY MATTE INK in Pioneer // This is a bold and bright choice that will not budge once applied. I highly recommend getting the remover as well, or you will have a bit of trouble getting this one off. This particular shade is the perfect neutral red. Not too blue and not too orange.

L’OREAL COLOR RICHE in Blake’s Red // This line of red lipsticks is fabulous and comes in a shade for every skin tone, although I have found this particular one to work on most people. I also adore the texture, it is a velvety matte that feels comfortable on the lips. The color and texture rival some of the more expensive brands I have tried. This is a good starter lipstick you want to try something new.

SHOP THIS POST:

STILA ALL DAY LIQUID LIP in Beso// This liquid lip color will not budge once applied and I have used it on many a bride. The color is beautiful.

NARS VELVET MATTE LIPSTICK in Dragon Girl// This is pretty easy to use, as it is a lipstick and liner in one, but you will need to re-apply this one. The color is perfection. You an use my above trick to make it last a bit longer.

BARE MINERALS STATEMENT MATTE LIP in VIP// This is the PERFECT red lip. Not too yellow and not too orange it is the perfect holiday crimson shade. It was sold out everywhere last year, but seems to be readily available this season.

I hope this is helpful. Why not give it a try and have fun with it!

XO,