Tid Bits: Red Lip Classic
“Beauty, to me, is about being comfortable in your own skin. That, or a kick-ass red lipstick.”
Red lipstick has always been a classic look. As a child who was did dance recitals for the first seven years of her life, it was a staple that my mom forced on me as I tried not to sneeze. In recent years, red lipstick has made the transition from dated-middle-aged-mom-at-a-gala to trendy-for-everyday-life. Honestly, I think a lot of that has to do with celebrity stylists making it mainstream again, which I am totally here for. It was overlooked for too long. Also I think the middle part is coming back, which is bad news for my face-shape.
It took a while for me to get comfortable with wearing red lipstick, and I think that’s totally normal. People aren’t used to seeing their face like that, you know? My personal trick for building up confidence with either an outfit, different hair parting, or make up trick I saw on YouTube is to test it out on a night-in. You can mess up and have a do-over or you can just keep looking at yourself in the mirror or take selfies and get used to how your face looks.
Exploring red lips is a fun adventure but it’s hard to know what you like until you try everything. In my experience, there are only three types of products I will spend my actual money on: lip pencils, lip stain, and the classic lipstick. Each have their pros and cons, but they’re all a necessity for my makeup bag. Here’s a look at my faves!
Pencil
NARS Satin Lip Pencil — Luxembourg
This is my go-to for a red lip. I got it because someone online asked Taylor Swift what kind of red lipstick she uses (NARS Dragon Girl, if you're interested) but she said this is the one Hillary Duff uses so obviously I went to Sephora and bought one. It's a bit shinier than normal, but for a good night out or a nice event it's a nice touch to elevate an outfit. It's easy to put on because it's longer, so it fits in your hand comfortably. You also have to use a cosmetic sharpener since it's a pencil which is an extra step, however it allows you to get a really fine point when you need it.
Lipstick
Revlon Matte Lipstick — 006 Really Red
I use this lipstick if I'm going out and I know I'm going to need a touch up later. It's small enough to fit in any bag and it doesn't take a lot of precision to apply in a crowded bathroom mirror. The shade is so classic and it's matte which allows it to be versatile for different occasions. From Sunday brunch to office holiday parties, you can do a quick application and you're good to go. Long story short, when in doubt, go with the lipstick.
Lip Stain
Stila Lip Rouge Lip Stain
Honestly the idea of "lip stain" is kind of weird to me because it's a big commitment. Like this stuff isn't coming off easily if you decide you don't want to wear it. You basically have to completely re-shower and start your makeup all over again and maybe it'll be off. This lip stain is great though because like I said, it won't come off. If you're going out and you know you're not going to be able to reapply, this is a great option. I love this for weddings because you're eating and drinking a lot as well as dancing and talking to tons of people, so you need something to stick with you the whole time. I love it, but sometimes when I wake up in the morning with remnants of it still on my face I cringe a bit on the inside.
