The dream shade for any day of the year, nothing screams Valentine’s Day better than sultry red lips. Whether you’re keeping your vibe low-key or want to up the ante, this rich hue gives your pout a look that couldn’t be more on-trend but is also an absolute classic. Dressed up or down, it’s bold and sexy – and always looks fabulous!
Can every skin tone wear a red lipstick?
“Absolutely!” says Louise Rae, a Mecca NZ education partner. “There are many shades of red that look universally flattering on every skin tone, or you can choose according to your undertone.”
Dark skin can handle more intense colour like deep reds and reds with blue undertones (“Think the classic, bright Hollywood red,” says Louise), while olive skin looks best when paired with yellow- or orange-based reds like coral and poppy. If you have a medium skin tone, you have a little more choice when it comes to picking a red, while those with light skin tones can wear a bright red for a bold pop of colour against their fair skin, but they tend to look better in cool reds or berry reds with blue undertones like cranberry shades.
There are so many shades and formulas out there, what are the best to buy?
“Ultimately, you should choose the red that you feel most comfortable and confident in,” advises Louise. “There are so many textures, tones and finishes to consider when choosing the right red for you, so my advice is to have a play and figure out what you like. There are glosses, stains, matte and long-wear formulas – the list goes on!” Each one of these will achieve a different-looking red lip, from a soft, subtle shimmer to a full-bodied and bold finish. The possibilities are endless.
“Once you know the finish you want, start thinking about the shade,” adds the pro. “And if you aren’t ready to commit to bold red lipstick, ease into the shade with a sheer formula or try a lip stain to gradually incorporate the colour into your look.”
Our favourite reds
Kosas Weightless Lip Colour in Darkroom, $47 at Mecca Beauty
This is a cool-toned red that looks fantastic on darker skin tones.
L’Oréal Paris Color Riche Satin Lipstick in 126 Excusez Moi, $26.99 at Chemist Warehouse
If you want a punchy red with a beautiful satin-finish formula, this one is for you. It also comes infused with argan oil and vitamin E for keeping your lips kissably soft all day long.
Clarins Joli Rouge Velvet lipstick in shade 742, $50 at Strawberrynet
This is a velvety, hydrating lipstick in a true red classic shade.
Maybelline SuperStay Matte Ink Liquid Lipstick in Pioneer, $21.99 at Chemist Warehouse
This liquid lipstick provides a flawless matte finish that stays put up to 16 hours.
L’Oréal Paris Color Riche Intense Volume Matte Lipstick in Le Rouge Determination, $18.79 at Chemist Warehouse
A matte formula that comfortably sits on the lips without bleeding or feathering.
Nars Powermatte Lipstick in Dragon Girl, $54 at Mecca Beauty
This lipstick makes the ultimate statement that lasts and lasts.
Karen Murrell Kera Kisses, $31.99 at Karen Murrell
For something different, this Karen Murrell lipstick is a gorgeous shade of deep red that features a wool-derived pigment to enhance colour, moisture and longevity using sustainably sourced keratin powder from happy New Zealand sheep.
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