The Red Lipstick Guide: Finding the Right Shade for Your Skin

Red lipstick is the most classic and the boldest piece in the make-up bag. A touch of colour turns a simple outfit into an evening look and gives a tired face instant energy. If you’ve ever said “red doesn’t suit me”, we have good news: there is definitely a red for every woman. The secret is finding the right shade and applying it with care.

Find your undertone first

Your skin may be fair, medium or deep, but when choosing lipstick the undertone matters most.

• The wrist test: Look at the veins on the inside of your wrist. Bluish or purple means a cool undertone, greenish means warm, and somewhere in between means neutral.
• The jewellery test: If silver suits you more, you probably have a cool undertone; if gold does, a warm one.

Reds by undertone

• Cool undertones: Blue-based reds such as cherry, ruby and wine. They make teeth look whiter.
• Warm undertones: Orange-based reds such as coral, tomato and brick. They give the skin a warm glow.
• Neutral undertones: Lucky you; both blue- and orange-based reds work. Classic “true reds” are ideal.

Depth of skin tone matters too. Bright, vivid reds are striking on fair skin, warm rich reds on medium skin, and deep wine and burgundy shades on deep skin.

Choosing a texture

• Matte: Long-lasting, modern and powerful. Dry lips need good hydration first.
• Satin: Slightly glossy and comfortable. Ideal for everyday wear.
• Gloss and tint: Softer and more natural. A great introduction for red beginners.

Flawless application

1. Prep your lips. A gentle scrub and a lip balm help lipstick sit smoothly. Let the balm absorb for a few minutes and blot off the excess.
2. Line. Trace the lip line with a liner in the same shade as the lipstick or close to your skin tone. Lightly filling in the lips with liner improves staying power.
3. Fill. Apply lipstick from the centre outwards. Use a brush for a crisper line.
4. Set. Press a tissue to your lips, dust on a fine layer of powder and apply one more coat.
5. Clean up. A thin brush dipped in concealer sharpens the edges.

Make-up with red lips

Red lipstick is a star on its own; keeping the rest of your make-up simple lets it shine. Clean skin, defined brows and a coat of mascara are enough. For evening, add a fine eyeliner for a classic look.

Pairing with outfits

Red lipstick is timeless with black, white, navy and camel. With this season’s burgundy and chocolate brown outfits, a wine-toned lipstick creates monochrome elegance. Remember: red lipstick isn’t a rule, it’s a mood. How you feel wearing it matters more than which shade you choose.