Recipe To Rock A Red Lip

Red lipstick is arguably one of most classic items in cosmetics history. Beauty icons such as Marilyn Monroe, made the look a universal classic that would not soon fade away.

In speaking with many, I’ve realized that a majority of women are timid when it comes to attempting the bold look of the red lip. I’m here to assure you that with proper technique, you…yes, you are fully capable of getting fierce this Valentines Day – and rocking that red lip with confidence!

Below you will find my step by step tutorial on what to do, but first let me fill you in on a few tips.

When doing a bold lip, I advise that you keep the rest of the face simple and understated. The lip is the showstopper in this look, so keep the eyes neutral – a nude or taupe shadow with mascara on both top and bottom lashes. If you feel comfortable, try skipping the liner and applying a few coats of mascara (my favorite is Christian Dior Blackout). If you’re thinking in your head that there is no way you are stepping out that door without liner – apply it thin right along the lash line. Cheeks should be dusted lightly with a light blush. Fill in any sparse areas of brows with a shadow or pencil and make sure they are perfectly groomed.

I prefer a matte look with the red lip, so my instructions will create that look. However, if you like a shiny red, just add a clear gloss at the end to the center of the top and bottom lip. Avoid applying to corners as it will increase the chances of you “lookin’ a mess” and having color spread on your face! Also, as we mature (nice way of saying “as we get old”) our lips tend to thin. You will have to determine where you’re at in the lip thinning department, but if they are more on the thin side, the last thing you need to do is accentuate them – which is what a dark/deep color will do. In this case, I recommend using a lighter shade.

What you will need:
1) First + Foremost = FEARLESSNESS to rock this look. You are beautiful and you can pull it off! Don’t be scrrd.
2)Toothbrush
3)Red lipliner and lipstick (recommendations below)
4)Powder
5)Tissue/Paper Towel/Toilet Paper
6)Lip Brush (optional)

Step One: Choosing A Color
This is the most important step! Generally reds are divided into two basic categories, cool and warm. Cool reds are usually blue based shades, such as cranberry, that work best if you have pinker or rosier undertones. Warm reds are orange based shades, like brick red, that work best for golden, peach or tan tones. A red that is chosen based on your skin tone will provide the most flattering outcome. See below for various skin tones and examples of red lips that work:

dark, warm skin tone

fair skin tone

medium / tan skin tone

Step Two: Brush Your Teeth & Exfoliate Lips!!
When brushing your teeth use the bristles and go over your lips to exfoliate, creating a smooth canvass to apply color.

Step Three: Follow The Natural Line
Line your lips with the red liner. Follow your natural lip line and use short strokes to create the outline. Once the natural outline is complete, fill the entire lip with the liner. This creates a foundation for the ‘stick!

Step Four: ‘Stick It To ‘Em!
Apply lipstick. For accuracy, I recommend using a lip brush. If you don’t have one, but want to give it a whirl visit http://www.eyeslipsface.com/makeup/tools/single-brushes – the Lip Defining Brush is only $1.00!!! These are obviously not high quality tools, but do the job, and I love them to just “play” with. Once the lip is covered, gently rub your lips together. Feel free to get creative with blending or mixing other shades of lipsticks you have on hand to create the perfect tone.

Step Five: Blot // Powder
Fold a tissue and gently blot. Apply just a little bit of powder to a tissue, preferably not the one you just blotted with, and lightly dust your lips.

Step Six: Paint The Town RED
Apply a second coat of color. For more drama, use the actual lipstick this time instead of the lip brush, but take your time and make sure to be very precise. If you do get some color outside the lines, use a sponge or tissue with a little concealer on it to clean up the color. Blot again. Finished.

My recommendations range from high/medium/low in price range.
-Chanel Rouge Allure Luminous Satin – **67 Excessive – $32.50
-MAC Lipstick- **Russian Red – $14.50
-Cover Girl Lip Perfection – **Hot 305 – $5.94

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