Fair
If you are fair, most colours stand out. New Zealand’s lipstick queen, Karen Murrell, suggests you go for light hues. “But in saying that, a bright red looks beautiful on fair skin!” she adds.
Day
Great options are dusky or candy pinks, a fresh soft peach, soft beige, or pink-based nudes.
Night
Coral red or red with a pink undertone creates a dramatic look.
Statement
A bright warm pink or classic red will pop on fair skin.
Medium
“A medium skin tone suits most colours,” says Karen. So opt for a selection of shades on the colour wheel. If you’re a redhead, stay clear of pure pink shades, as these can wash you out.
Day
Try pinky brown shades for an everyday colour, ensuring an equal mix of pink and brown.
Night
A rich, darker pink-brown or salmon pink shade can take a day look into night.
Statement
Try a deep plum or a scarlet red.
Olive
Karen warns those with olive skin can look washed out with really light brown colours. “Go for lipsticks with an orange tint as it will bring out the golden tones in your skin,” she suggests.
Day
Coral will get you through the day – try one with a brown base or peach undertone.
Night
Try a vivid red with orange tones or a poppy red.
Statement
Lipstick with a smoky texture with coral and orange undertones will be a showstopper.
Dark
“Oh what fabulous skin! They can go the darkest of lip shades,” enthuses Karen. Avoid shades which are too light as they won’t show up on your lips.
Day
A lip stain in red with burgundy or brown hues works well.
Night
Go for a deeper hue than the daytime lipstick, with a purple base for a dramatic look.
Statement
A hot, blue-based red adds impact – as does a bright bold pink.
Words by: Claudia Renford
Photographs by: Bauer Studios (NZ), Getty Images