In all the fall collections, we’re seeing dark lips. Unlike last season’s berry looks, we’ve headed into deep chocolate browns, such as Smashbox’s Wicked Lovely Lip Gloss in Sheer Black Cherry and deep plums like Plum Berry by CK Calvin Klein. And for the more adventurous of us, Make Up For Ever has Black 223, which is described as a cream-jet black.

While most of us aren’t interested in making the black lipstick from the Fall runways work, many of the new colors out there are incredibly wearable. However, unlike many summer or lighter colors, a flawless application is key to the dark color trend.

You should apply lipstick after the rest of your makeup is done. Some will swear by a light coating of foundation on the lips, but it’s not necessary especially when you are working with very dark colors.

1. Using a lip liner that is as close to the actual color of your lipstick, line carefully both the upper and lower lips starting at the center of the upper lip and working outward.
2. Then fill in your lips with the liner, especially the center of the bottom lip. Using liner on the lips acts as a base and will help keep your lipstick on longer.
3. Next, using a firm lip brush, apply lipstick evenly to both lips, paying special attention to stay within the lines created by your liner. If you don’t feel comfortable using a brush, try the middle finger. This helps you get a “feel” for where fthe lipstick is actually going. Prefer to just use the tube? Right on – it doesn’t really matter how you get the color on there, just make sure the application is precise.
4. After the color is on, blot your lips with a square of tissue paper. No need to do more than press your lips against the tissue – you’re not looking to remove the color, just set it. If you need to tone the color down, blot two or three more times. If you’re still not comfortable with the color, it might be best to start over with a different shade.

At this point, your lips are done, or you can apply a gloss. Over this season’s dark colors, we’re seeing lots of vampy shades. The most popular being Lancome’s Color Fever Gloss in Piha Black. Another great gloss to use over a cherry red include MAC’s Tinted Lip Glass in Desire. Apply enough to get the shade or gloss you desire, and don’t blot.

Have a great vampy shade to share or tricks to that perfect application? Leave them in the comments!

Guest Contributor – Daily Dose of Coffee