Summer is here, and it’s the perfect time to break out a bold red lippy! Many women shy away from red lipstick, but when applied correctly  it’s stunning, and makes a bold statement. Pair it with a gorgeous Little black dress, (or little red dress!) and you’ll pack a powerful punch.

Here are a couple of tips to help you get the most Vavoom out of your red…

Choose a color that works with your skin tone…

You Have Darker Skin and Darker Hair

Choose a blue based red (try M.A.C Ruby Woo, or Estée Lauder Signature Hydra Lustre Lipstick in Rich Red). Darker hair and skin tones can support stronger colors without looking harsh. Also, the darker your skin the more color you will need or it will end up looking washed out on your lips.

You have Dark Hair and Pale Skin:

You can get away with some yellow/orange based reds (try Dolce & Gabbana’s Classic Cream Lipstick ) as long as they do not have very prominent undertones. And if you have pink tones to your skin the blue based reds work well for you as they are the “truest reds” (try Guerlain KissKiss Lipstick in Exces de Rouge, or Chanel Rouge Allure Lipstick 14 Passion,)

You have Light hair and darker skin:

If you’re skin is golden brown, then reach for a yellow/orange lipstick first (try Revlon Super Lustrous lipstick Fire and Ice). However, if you have naturally dark skin and you have lightened your hair then don’t be afraid to experiment with yellow/orange tones, but remember to go darker so it doesn’t disappear when you apply it. Keep I mind, if your skin is  naturaly very dark then you should try a blue-based shade first (try Russian Red by M.A.C,) and then see if you can find a good deep yellow/orange shade (try Jungle Red by Nars).

Keep the rest of your makeup to a minimum…

A precise line of liquid black eyeliner drawn close to the lash line and a sweep of mascara is really all you need to set off your gorgeous crimson lips. This look is timeless and oh so reminiscent of classic Hollywood glamour girls.
Set your pout….

To avoid having your color feather and bleed all over your face, napkin, and clothing and keep it on your lips where it belongs, try this pro makeup artist tip and your color will last for hours:

Apply your lipstick, then place a tissue directly on your lips. Dip a powder brush in loose translucent powder and dust over the tissue. Just enough powder will transfer thru the tissue to set your lipstick. Re-apply one more coat, blot lightly and you’re good to go!

Remember, it’s all in the attitude and wearing a red lip screams “sexy, seductive, siren”. So be bold, have fun, and wear your red with confidence!