Runways and city streets alike have been filled with girls pulling off rich, dark lipstick. Â It’s become such a trend that its shock factor is finally starting to subside, and it’s actually acceptable to wear pretty much anytime. Â While this fashion statement might still seem a little scary to try at first, it’s definitely something you need to give a chance. Â Here are some tips to help you pull off the ultimate accessory this fall.
1. Choose a color appropriate for your skin tone. Â If your skin is fair/light, try to choose a lipstick with a warmer undertone. Â Maroons, burgundys, and deep reds are ideal. Â These shades will keep you looking appropriate and polished, not scary. Â If your skin tone is more olive or deeper, go for lipsticks with a cooler undertone. Â Plums, deep purples, and chocolately colors will make your lips pop the most. Â Keep in mind: if you don’t plan on wearing your dark lipstick on a regular basis, there’s no need to invest in an expensive one. Â Plenty of brands available at drugstores have colors just as rich as the ones in department stores. Â Do some experimenting before you make your decision.
2. Choose your texture carefully. The darker the lipstick, the less shine you want it to have. Â Going for a matte formula rather than a creamy one will be much less dramatic for day time, not to mention it lasts way longer. Â The combination of shine and color in a creamier formula can be too strong to wear casually, so a matte look will appear much less formal. Â If you do find your perfect shade in a creamy, pigmented blend, simply blot your lips with a tissue before stepping out of the house. Â This will mattify your lips and make the color appear less severe.
3. Use a lip liner. Â Lining your lips is crucial if you plan on wearing your lipstick for more than a couple of hours. Â For an all day, long-lasting wear, follow your natural lip line to seal in your lipstick before you apply it. Â Using a lip liner similar to the color of your lipstick will make your lips stand out even more. Â If you’re having trouble finding a perfect match for your lipstick, however, go for a flesh-tone shade that blends easily with any lip stick hue. Â This will keep your lipstick from smearing outside of your natural lip line throughout the day. Â My personal favorite is Wonder Pencil by NYX, which comes in 3 shades to match light, medium, and dark skin tones ($4.49, Ulta.com). Â
4. Make sure your lips are hydrated. Â Nothing is worse than looking in the mirror a few hours after applying your lipstick and seeing that it’s settling into your lips, peeling off, and fading. Â The best way to prevent this is to layer some clear lip balm underneath your lipstick in order to moisturize your lips before you put on your lipstick. Â Since lipstick (especially more matte forumlas) tend to be drying, putting on some lip balm before you apply your lipstick will help your lips stay soft all day long. Â I suggest Maybelline Baby Lips Moisturizing Lip Balm in Quenched, which is colorless and has no aftertaste like most lip balms ($2.99, Target.com). Â Your lips will thank you.