One of the first things people find out about me, after learning about what I spend my time and nerd out on, is that I’m obsessed with makeup, especially lipstick. For me, it’s the perfect way to show a little bit of my personality with little effort. These are my favorite red lips in my collection, so if you see me wearing red lipstick, it’s probably one of these.
Note: Most of these colors will suit women of darker skin tone, but I honestly think that these shades are universal (based on my friends who’ve borrowed these lipsticks before).
1. M.A.C. Matte Lipstick in Ruby Woo ($19)
This is probably my go to for an everyday red lip, especially for work. This was the lipstick that taught me what a “True blue” red was. Essential it makes your teeth appear whiter, versus more orange-red lipsticks that make them look more yellow. The lipstick can be a little hard to apply (it’s SUPER matte), so I tend to use a lip brush to get a precise application and avoid looking like a clown.
I pair this with either a true blue red lip liner (Huda Beauty Heartbreaker) or a cranberry one like the ColourPop Ellarie Liner, for an ombre lip.
(Shop)
2. M.A.C. Matte Lipstick in Lady Danger ($19)
M.A.C. describes this lipstick as a “Vivid Bright Coral-Red” and it is beautiful. It shows up a little more on the orange side for me, but still wearable. My favorite spring/summer red is actually a mix of Lady Danger and Ruby Woo. This lipstick is new to my collection but it’s becoming a serious contender for my most worn, particularly during the Springtime.
(Shop)
3. Coloured Raine Liquid Lipstick in Cherry Blossom ($17)
For the days when I’m wearing a medium/high coverage foundation, this is my go-to. I’d describe this as a slightly darker Ruby Woo, in liquid form. It’s probably one of my favorite liquid lipstick formulas since it doesn’t dry out my lips throughout the day.
(Shop)
4. ColourPop Ultra Matte Lip in Avenue ($7)
Avenue, a “dark blood red” lipstick, has been a member of my lipstick collection for years. It definitely gives off more of a fall vibe, but that doesn’t stop me from wearing it year-round.
(Shop)
5. Pat McGrath Labs LUST GLOSS in Blood 2 ($28)
I recently got pulled into this lipgloss moment that’s taking place in the make-up world right now. This gives me Ruby Woo vibes, but high-shine. It’s also not sticky/tacky which is a dealbreaker for me.
Note: I haven’t figured out a way to make this lip gloss work appropriate, so for now, this only makes an appearance after work hours.
(Shop)
This post is not sponsored. Product photos courtesy of brands