Beauty is a kick-ass red lipstick

Few makeup products can compete with the power of a bold, red lip. Here’s how to make it work for you. 

By Emily Taylor

As actor and lifestyle entrepreneur Gwyneth Paltrow famously said, “Beauty, to me, is about being comfortable in your own skin. That, or a kick-ass red lipstick.” And while an enhanced sense of self-acceptance is one of the many positives about getting older, it’s true that sometimes we all need a little pep-up. Enter: a traffic-stopping lip colour that brings instant polish to your look, whether it’s workwear or your go-to weekend denim. Think of it as an instant confidence booster you can carry in your pocket.

It’s true that wearing bright lipstick can be high-maintenance – the endless touch ups, the feathering around your mouth and the smudges on teeth are a few of the factors that often put me off, too. But once you’ve found a formula you can trust and sorted your application technique, you’ll be turning to a bold lip much more frequently than you think. As someone who traditionally shuns statement lipstick, even I’ve been pleasantly surprised by the latest formulas.

The biggest trend in lip colour now is a highly pigmented matte finish that’s more low sheen than high shine. And it’s easier to wear than you might expect. The new breed has been designed to feel super comfortable, cushiony and smooth – not drying or chalky like those infamous ‘90s formulas we’re all happy to forget. These fresh, velvety options also boast extended wear without pilling or peeling, which means they’re much simpler to reapply when you’re ready for more.

The new reds can be slicked on straight from the bullet and most are buildable, so you can create your perfect level of colour saturation. If the shade feels too bright for you, do as I do and press a hint of product into your lips with a fingertip. The result is a sexy, stained effect that adds definition without dialling up the drama too far.

When it comes to tone, the most modern option is a bold tomato shade. With warm orange undertones, it’s a contemporary take on the classic, blue-toned red. Do take your complexion into consideration here however, and when in doubt, select a universal red that strikes the perfect balance between warm and cool.

If you’re ready to update your makeup bag, here are three standout options that will redefine your look with minimal fuss while making you feel a little bit special, too.

Entry Level: Revlon Super Lustrous Luscious Mattes Lipstick in On Fire

This lightweight, creamy blend feels comfortable but goes on velvety and offers high-voltage colour. From the brand-stamped bullet to the matte-black tube, everything about this great-value buy feels fancy.

Price: $27.95 (on sale at Chemist Warehouse for $13.97)

Mid range: MAC MACximal Silky Matte Lipstick in Lady Danger

With full coverage and plenty of pigment, this new-gen matte makes an impact. It’s formulated with coconut oil, shea and cocoa butter for a nourishing finish designed to boost moisture and fullness.

Price: $40.00

Luxe: Dior Rouge Dior Couture Color Lipstick in 999 Velvet Finish

Recently reformulated, Dior’s iconic lip colour is better than ever. Soothing floral extracts impart suppleness and hydration while the long-wearing formula delivers a softly blurred, plumped-up finish.

Price: $72.00

A note on lip liner: As the new feature-packed options are designed to prevent feathering and fade, liner is no longer an essential. However, a co-ordinating pencil will help define your lip shape for a fuller finish and stop colour from migrating, too. It’s ideal if you want to achieve a longer lasting finish – simply outline your mouth with a sharp point and use the side of the tip to completely fill in your lips before applying your chosen lipstick on top. It’s an investment, but Dior’s new Rouge Dior Contour is my current obsession and feels so comfortable, you can wear it solo, too.

To discuss this edit and share your ideas on which red lippy you love, join the community today.

For additional expert tips on applying your favourite red lipstick, check out the video below How to Wear Red Lipstick Like a French Girl with ParisianVibe.