The Best Ways to Wear a Classic, Red Lip

Red lipstick is classy, sassy, and surprisingly wearable. If you've got lips, then you can probably wear it and look great! Don't worry, because red lips aren't just for special occasions. You can wear them anytime, anywhere, as long as you have the right outfit. Here are my favorite ways to wear a classic red lip.

Pretty for preschool pickup. If you're picking up your preschooler straight from yoga class, you may not be looking your best. But you can fake it with a great red lipstick. Wear a great trench coat, an over-sized pair of sunglasses, and your favorite red lipstick. No one will ever know that you are sweaty, under- dressed, and not wearing a stitch of eye makeup. A matte red lip will hold you over until you have time to get cleaned up and beautiful.

Wear it for the work day. You really can wear red lipstick to work without looking like a working girl. The key is to keep everything sophisticated and understated. Wear a simple, matte red lip with a very neutral eye pallet (think taupe shadow and sable liner). Keep your hairstyle clean and sophisticated, such as a low, sleek ponytail or a very chic bob. Red lips look great with a white button down, black pants, and a tailored blazer. Stay away from anything low cut, tight, or short, as the red lipstick is more than enough.

Rock red lips for a night out (or a night in!). For a strong going out look, pair up your favorite red lipstick with a great outfit, a charcoal, smokey eye, and a pile of lip gloss. A sequined tank and a pair of skinny jeans will look just right for the club, party, or even dinner in.

Red lips tips. Red lipstick looks great against a black or white top. The strong colors create great contrast and allow your lips to take center stage. If your teeth a slightly yellow, wear a red lipstick that has blue undertones. The contrast will help your teeth look whiter and brighter. If you have red undertones in your skin, avoid a straight red lipstick, and choose a brown-red instead.

Prepare your lips. Always exfoliate your lips before you wear red lipstick. Use a lip primer to help keep the lipstick from fading and bleeding into the fine lines round your mouth. Then, line your lips and fill them in with a neutral colored lip pencil. Carefully apply the red lipstick with a lip brush, and gently blot with a blotting paper. Re-apply. Top off with gloss if desired. Always check your teeth, and keep your lip products with you so you can touch up as needed.

You may need to try a few different lipsticks to find the right red for you. Ask your favorite make up consultant to help you choose, then bring a few sample products home to try. Find the one you like best and always wear it with confidence.

Five beauty secrets you don't need to share.
Transition your makeup from day to night.
Five secrets to healthy beautiful hair.