Have you ever spotted a red lipstick you loved on your friend, but when you tried it on yourself, the effect wasn’t quite right? We hear you! A bold red lip is such a classic look, but we know the struggle of finding that perfect shade of crimson to flatter your complexion all too well. So we did our homework extensively on this one and found out ways to pick the perfect red for every skin tone. Worry not folks, there’s a red for everyone’s lips!
For the fair-skinned girls.
Cherry Red – We’re starting off on a bright note. Vibrant blue-based cherry reds contrast with pink undertones in fair skin to make lips pop. They also happen to make teeth look whiter. It’s a youthful red shade, for sure, so keep the rest of your makeup clean and simple—a little pink blush, crisp black liner, and black mascara do the trick.
Cranberry – Looking for something more grown-up? Rich cranberry warms up fair skin tones and is just enough to look sophisticated—not vampirish or teenage angst-y.
Wine – It’s deep and moody—and the effect against porcelain skin is striking, thanks to a hint of violet that keeps complexions from looking washed out.
For medium to fair complexions.
Orange-Red – A color so vivid that it looks like it was plucked out of a Lichtenstein artwork, this fiery shade is great against warm complexions. Orange-y shades are hard to pull off, but this one has hints of blue to counteract sallowness.
Blackberry – One swipe of this red-based purple delivers the same berry tint as a glass (or two) of pinot noir—minus the stained teeth. To keep things sophisticated, blend a creamy berry blush over the apples of your cheeks.
For wheatish to tan skin tones.
Tangerine – Talk about bold: This orange punch shade really stands out against darker skin tones—just ask Solange Knowles! But with colors this bright, you have to commit. To make it last, first fill in lips with a liner in the same shade as the lipstick. Dab lipstick on top (straight from the tube), pat it in with your finger, then reapply. Blot with a tissue, and the color will stay put—even after a few cocktails.
Maroon – This deep, deep red is elegant, and the rich blue undertones are especially flattering against dark skin. Stronger shades like these look best with little makeup elsewhere.
Raspberry – It’s bright and young and contains a hefty dose of pink that pops against dark complexions.
Leave us thoughts and suggestions in the comments section below!
