There's nothing more iconic in the beauty world than a set of shiny, blood red lips. In fact, I believe a woman can go from merely pretty to absolutely drop dead gorgeous with a single coat of red lipstick. It adds instant sex appeal and transitions the girl next door into a blockbuster bombshell. Just think classic Marilyn Monroe and Elizabeth Taylor--timeless beauty!
I enjoy eclectic fashion and cosmetic looks, and I often change my aesthetic with my changing mood. This morning, I was feeling the 1950s retro vibe, so I donned my favorite fit-n-flare cherry dress with matching red heels and a sweater. I decided to step out side my cosmetic comfort zone and trade my everyday bronze-tone lipstick for a come-hither red to complete my old school look.
Why is it that every time I attempt to emulate a perfect crimson pout right out of the pages of Glamour Magazine, I end up looking like a tanner version of the Joker? Perhaps driving while applying doesn't help! (Yes, I'm one of those women--although I only do my lipstick in the car. Nothing else, thank-you-very-much!)
My point is this: countless other women can pull of magnetic red lips, so why can't I? Is it because I'm not used to seeing such eye-popping color on my kisser, or does it simply not suit me? I sincerely believe the former is the answer. In an ideal world, anyone should be able to pull of fire engine red lips--and honestly, anyone can. It's just that I'm not used to the dramatic color on my lips.
In order to create the perfect red lip, it takes skill and lots of practice. First, you should line your lips to prevent feathering. I personally use a flesh tone reverse lip liner from Cargo, which is used to trace an "invisible" line just outside your natural lip line. It helps keep your lipstick from traveling and subtly highlights the edges of your mouth.
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| Cargo reverse lip liner |
Second, I advise using a lipstick brush to paint on color--either from a chubby crayon or tube of lipstick. It allows for precision. A lipstick tube is just too bulky to trace the exact perimeter of your lip line. Blot any excess from the inner rim of your mouth to prevent getting lipstick on your teeth and be sure to wipe your hands thoroughly, lest you end up with the stained hands of a serial killer. Finally, add a dab of clear gloss at the center of your bottom lip for a hint of shine, and voila! You now have the lips of a 1960s pinup girl.
Should you decide this bold look is just not your thing or that you too, end up looking like Batman's nemesis, simply wipe it off with a dab of makeup remover. It's makeup, people--it's not permanent! Have a little fun--take a risk or two. Who knows? You may permanently adopt scarlet lips as your new signature look. Besides, a lady in red never goes unnoticed! (wink, wink)
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