Lipstick often comes with challenges.  Red lipstick is great for the parties of the holiday season, but is often the most tricky color for women to choose.  Additionally, you need to find one that doesn’t bleed, doesn’t wear off, and doesn’t get all over everyone you greet (especially important if you are attending a party!).

Think about YOUR lips: Not everyone looks good with the same look.  Deeper reds can make thin lips look even smaller.  Try a bright shade with a lot of light-reflecting shine if you have smaller lips.

Choose a different shade for day and night: For daytime and outdoor parties, it’s a good idea to pick a softer shade or a sheer gloss.  For evening events, it’s a great idea to go for a bold red.  Just keep your skin tone in mind when choosing the shade.

Red lips mean subtle eyes: Avoid wearing your bold lips with an equally bold or smoky eye.  Choose one standout feature.  With red lipstick, subtle and neutral eyeshadows, light eyeliner, and some plain black mascara look best.

Take your time: Red lipstick is not a look you want to mess up.  Try to apply as steady as possible.  If you find a lip liner helps you, be sure to avoid red lip liner.  Use a shade that is close to your natural lip color to prevent a “two tone” effect.

Keep your color from bleeding: A good tip is to apply a little concealer around your lips.  Be sure to blend your concealer!

Lipstick doesn’t go on teeth! After applying lipstick, put your finger in your mouth and close your lips over it. Then slowly pull it out. This will remove the excess lipstick and keep it from ruining your dramatic smile.