It’s time to talk about the most iconic makeup look of all time: red lips. Whether you prefer a berry tone or true classic red, we know there are a lot of red shades out there – but the boldest, fullest color comes out if the lipstick contains blue undertones. Blue undertones create a deeper look to your lips, and they make your teeth brighter because blue and yellow are opposite to each other on a color wheel. Pretty cool, right?
If you’re confused about how to tell whether a lipstick has blue undertones, you can always swatch the colors on your hand or wrist to be sure. Blue-toned lipsticks aren’t orangey when applied, and they’ll look full and thick instead of light. To help you out on your search for the most stunning red, these are the most-loved lipsticks friendly for all complexions.
1. Retro Matte Lipstick in Ruby Woo (MAC, $18.50)
When makeup-obsessives talk about red lipstick, they’re usually talking about Ruby Woo. This long-lasting, matte lipstick is highkey magic because it looks good on everyone, and it’s even a favorite of celebrities like Taylor Swift and Rihanna. This is a highly-pigmented shade, so anytime you wear it, people take notice. Ruby Woo is your opportunity to flaunt it.
2. Matte Liquid Lipstick in Mary Jo K (Kylie Cosmetics, starting at $17)
This is ultimate secret weapon shade to pull out when you’ve got a holiday party or you’re just feeling extra. It’s not patchy, and it’s long-wearing, which makes this one of Kylie’s best sellers since its initial release. Mary Jo K hovers just barely in the blue-toned lipstick family, but the deep pigment is enough to offset any yellow tones you’re trying to hide.
3. All Day Liquid Lipstick in Beso (Stila, $22)
This is the truest blue red you’ll find, and it’s such a universal color that the specific pigments blend with any complexion. While this is a matte, it’s a bit creamier because of the Vitamin E and avocado oil in Stila’s formula, so it keeps your lips soft instead of looking dry.