Everyone Can Wear Red Lipstick (You Just Need To Know My Top Tips!)

A slick of red lipstick can help every woman feel confident, have a renewed sense of self-belief and ooze strength. There's something about the powerful shade that makes men weak at the knees, women sit up and take notice and even old ladies on the street crack a smile. Red is the hue of passion, love and romance, so there's no doubt it can have an incredible impact on your overall makeup look as well as your wardrobe. Although many fear the colour, it's actually incredible easy to wear a red lip - you just need to know which one and how!

Know Your Boundaries
Red lips can look incredible when worn either day or night, but the key to a phenomenal lip is keeping it simple. The rest of your look should be paired down, leaving the focus on your incredible pout. Try leaving the smokey eyes for another day and focusing on a simple flick of liner - powerful lips and eyes are not unlike boobs and legs; it's one or the other.

Opt For The Right Shade
Paler complexions can get away with darker and more daring shades, while blondes should stick to something classic that's not too orangey - it will cheapen the overall look. A hint of berry or fuschia can make reds more wearable if you're a little concerned about going the whole hog, while a classic vintage shade looks good on everyone. If in doubt, ask for assistance in store and get them to test a number of shades on you; it's hard to understand what will work without seeing it in action.

Invest In Something You Love
There's no point buying from a brand you think you should love, or opting for the iconic shade everyone always talks about. You need to find your own personal shade that works for you, your complexion, your needs and your budget - fall in love with a red and you'll be re-purchasing it for the next ten years. Reds should be classic, sexy and above all fun.

Make It Last
The key to having confidence in your red lips is making them last as long as possible. Lining, blotting and building up colour will help the shade to stay put, while adding a touch of balm or gloss will ensure lips feel comfortable. (Have a read of my top tips for making lipstick last here!) If you're constantly transferring lipstick marks onto wine glasses and coffee cups, it's safe to say you won't be pulling out the red on a daily basis.

Match Your Outfit
Although red lips practically go with everything and are a great way of smartening up an otherwise simple outfit, they should be worn with the right items and colours. I personally think red lips look great with a simple colour palette and streamlined silhouette, rather than lots of faff and patterns. Consider your makeup a part of your outfit and pair together pieces that you know will work together. It will provide a huge confidence boost!

Do you have any top tips on how to wear red lipstick?