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Expert Advice

How to get perfect red lips

How to get perfect red lips
Gareth Chidgey
Writer and expert7 years ago
View Gareth Chidgey's profile

Nothing screams party season like perfect red lips. From pillar box red to deep crimson, signature red lips exude a sense of power and sexiness that you can’t get from thigh high boots or a sultry new dress. From Marilyn Monroe to Angelina Jolie, it’s a look that’s been donned by all the greats over the years. However, you don’t have to be an A-lister to pull off the crimson pout. Whilst it may seem simple, there is an art to achieving it.

To help you out, our Beauty Editor has devised an expert guide of how to achieve the ultimate party pout.

Step One

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Pick your perfect lipstick. It might sound obvious but picking the perfect shade to your skin tone is crucial. If you’re fair, a raspberry lipstick like the Daniel Sandler Luxury Matte Lipstick in Red Carpetwhich complements and “warms up” cool pinks tones that can be found in fair skin.

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Medium skin tones should go for pinkish reds like this Antipodes Lipstick in Forrest Berry Red, whilst golden skin tones should go for a vivid red like this Mavala Sensation Lipstick in Gipsy Red. However, make sure the shade is fully pigmented as sheer reds can make golden skin look dull.

Read more:7 new makeup buys to see you through the party season 

Step Two

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The secret to creating the perfect red lip lies in applying lip liner after your lipstick, rather than before. Make sure your liner is completely sharpened and carefully trace around the edge of your lips, particularly emphasising around your cupid’s bow. If you have thinner lips, line just outside of the lip line to create the illusion of fullness.

Step 3

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Press your lips to together to secure and even out the product. For added glamour apply a gloss over the top. We recommend the Eve Lom Kiss Mix for extra shine. Try applying with a brush for extra precision, using the tip of the brush to define the cupid’s bow and edges of the lips.

Discover our full range of lipsticks here

Gareth Chidgey
Writer and expert
View Gareth Chidgey's profile
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