How to Wear Red Lipstick

Think you can’t work a red lip? Think again! Here's how to create the perfect red pout and ooze classic Hollywood glamour.

That's right ladies. You don’t need to be a Hollywood screen queen to pull off red lipstick – you can ALL wear it and look amazing!
According to makeup guru Napoleon Perdis, “Many women shy away from red but they’re missing out. Wearing a red lip is the fastest way to upgrade your image; it’s face-brightening, teeth-whitening, and mood altering.”
Red lips embody a classic, elegant and versatile look that never goes out of style.
To explain further and give you all some top tips for ravishing red lips, we’ve enlisted the expertise of Nicola Snell, make-up artist from Napoleon Perdis.

Can every woman wear red lipstick?

Yes! When thinking about wearing a red lipstick, channel your inner screen siren or favourite diva and use that confidence to help you carry your red lip. Confidence is the key and a bold lip is the perfect statement for ss 11/12

What kind of an impression do red lips create?

A red lip is classic, feminine and very powerful. Red is the colour of love and is very exciting, so it can create many different impressions. When I see a women wearing a red lip I instantly take a second glance.

Are there any skin tones or hair colours that should avoid red lips?

All skin tones and hair colours can rock a red lip. It comes down to the individual and what they feel most comfortable in. To test what colour red would best suit , try a test patch on the tip of your index finger, the colour on your index finger will be a closer shade to your natural lip tone than on the back of your hand. Experiment! that's the beauty of make up it washes off if you decide to change your mind.

Are there any contexts or occasions when it should be avoided? (eg. like the office)

A red lip can work for any occasion. Just keep in mind the overall look of your makeup before you start applying. Do you want the eyes and lips to be both bold or perhaps something more subtle? Do as Napoleon does, if after 12 minutes you're not convinced take it off and try something else.

What tone of red should women go for if they’ve never worn a red lipstick before?

Napoleon has answered every woman's dream with the latest Under Cover Red Lip Gloss. It works with your natural pH level in your lips and is self adjusting so it becomes your own customized red. This is the perfect product for anyone wanting to try a red lip for the first time.

Are there any rules or tricks when it comes to applying red lipstick?

Maintenance is the key. Before you apply your red lipstick make sure the lips are semi hydrated, this will make sure your application is smooth and rid of any winter blues. For precision use a Compact Lip Brush 2b this will ensure the lipstick is applied evenly and will help you to stay within your natural lip line. Once applied be sure to finish your red lip with a lip liner. Applying your lip liner last will act as a cage around your lips, it will give your lipstick more staying power and your lips more definition. If you're not up for the maintenance I would definitely recommend either Lady In Red Lip Gloss (RRP $30) or Front Row Red Lip Gloss (RRP $30). Both are long lasting and packed with ingredients that will nourish and protect your lips all day long. Reddy, Steddy, Ravishing!

What products should be applied to rest of the face when wearing red lips?
When rocking your red lip stick to a more natural eye as this will balance your overall look and keep the lips as the focus. To create a screen siren look,apply a crisp liquid liner to the top lash line and extend slightly for a more dramatic finish. If your going from desk to dance floor add a fake lash to create the wow factor.

Favourite celebrity red lips?

Dita Von Teese is my favourite all time celebrity when it comes to the perfect red lip. She oozes confidence and sexuality whilst still keeping it very classic chic.LifeStyle YOU LOVES: Double Agent Rouge Lip Palette (RRP $33)
Napoleon says: "Chanel Your Inner Bond Girl."
This fantastic product from the new Better Off Red Collection comes in a cute duo compact with both a semi-matte lipstick palette and a pressed lip powder.
Pro Tip: First load a lip brush with the lipstick then brush over the lips. Build color for intensity. Next pat and smooth powder with the sponge to set color for a totally matte lip look.
The Result: A velvety, matt-tastic, full-bodied red pout. Move over Marilyn! We can't stop wearing this!