Laura Nadeau is the creator and owner of Lo & Co Makeup Artists, specializing in creating a fun and fabulous community for brides or any woman who wants to step-up her beauty routine. In addition to her own blog, The Down Lo, Laura shares her insight and advice on bridal beauty secrets right here, every week.
I have always loved the sophisticated look of a beautiful red lip. I know, I know, you are afraid of red – you think that you will look like a clown or something even worse! I have heard it all, but trust me the right red can make your skin look amazing and your eye color pop. If you are short on time, throw on your red lip, mascara, blush and you look pulled together and confident.
The red lip was worn by many top actresses at the Golden Globes this year and many brides are turning to this classic look and rocking it! The trend is to have a more stained look, rather than a perfectly lined, opaque lip. It can range from a subtle berry to fire engine red. So no matter what you skin color, there is a great red for you!
The key for a great red is to use more than one color. I like to have one red that is a deep matte and a second that is brighter and more moisturizing. Start by applying a layer of the matte and press your lips together or press in with your finger to work the color in and stain the lip. Apply color again and blot with tissue a couple of times. Switch to your second color and repeat the process until you achieve the desired look. This will add dimension to your lips and makes them look softer and more natural than one matte color. A red lip pencil can also be used on the lip, but use a color that is softer than your lipstick.
I use and recommend...
Matte Lipsticks:
Bobbi Brown - Burnt red (orange/red), or Redwood (red/brown)
M.A.C. - Retro (brownish red), or Dubonnet (orange/ red)
Lipstick Queen - Natural Sinner (brown/red), Berry Sinner (berry), or Red Sinner (orange/red)
Sheer Lipsticks:
Bobbi Brown - Cranberry, Ruby, Plum
M.A.C. Brick-ol-a (pinker red –easy to wear), or Spice it up (a beautiful berry red)
Laura Mercier - Garnet (plum/red)
There are many drugstore brands which I also love, but you can’t try them on in the store. CVS has a great makeup return policy that lets you return used cosmetics. Please double check with the clerk before purchasing.
You must try on the colors to know what is right for you. When you have the right lip color on it should perk up and brighten your skin color. Go to a counter and let the sales associate know that you are looking for the right red and you want to try on a bunch of colors. A decent artist should understand and give you a little space, but be there to help you out. For sanitary application, ask for a spray alcohol bottle and a tissue. Spray the alcohol on the top of the lip stick and then wipe of onto the tissue. You can apply to your lip directly or with a lip brush. Go at off peak time for the best department store experience (avoid 12-2pm and 5-7pm).
Perfect lip tips:
For dry or flaky lips use a toothbrush (gently) on wet lips to remove flaky skin. Hydrate lips with a balm and blot of excess before applying color. Apply color from the middle of your lips and work out. Clean up a messy lip line use concealer or foundation on a flat brush around the lip area.
Latest Comments