How to choose the right red lipstick for your skin tone

Nothing makes me feel quite as confident as a red lip does. It’s such a classic look; a touch of that old Hollywood glamour, that makes for the perfect signature beauty note or a bold choice for that special occasion you have coming up. But, with so many different reds out there, it can be tricking figuring out just which one is the perfect red lipstick to complement your complexion. So, to avoid seeing red – literally – these quick tips can help you to figured out which is the right red lipstick for you.

There’s just one key step; you need to identify what your skin tone is. Does it have cool, warm, or neutral undertones? If you’ve ever felt like a red lip just hasn’t worked out for you, it’s probably been because you’ve been wearing the wrong shade for your complexion.

Those with fairer cool-toned complexions should opt for a bright red with blue undertones to add a bit of vibrancy; Love Bite from Charlotte Tilbury (also here) is p-e-r-f-e-c-t for this and such a long lasting option too. If you have cool-pink undertones in your skin (think: girls who epitomise the ‘English Rose’ with porcelain skin), go for a raspberry hued red or anything with a bit of a pink undertone to it.

If you have a yellow-based undertone or warmer skin, then an orange-based red is the perfect pick me up to really brighten up your complexion – I especially love Lady Danger from MAC. If your skin sways more olive, then opt for an orange-based brick red, which will help to not only brighten, but reduce the appearance of sallowness in the face.

Finally, those with a darker complexion have a few different options. A candy apple orange-based red contrasts beautifully against darker skin tones, though if you’re hoping to make less of a statement, a plummy or oxblood-toned red is a little more subtle for a day-to-day look.