MATT or glossy, retro or modern, diffused or solid, a bolt of red lipstick can update your look instantly, and everyone has their own opinion on which is the ultimate hue.
Shades such as Chanel’s classic Pirate or MAC’s high-impact Ruby Woo are much-loved among confident lipstick-wearers, whilst cult favorites such as Lipstick Queen’s semi-sheer Medieval offer a wearable option for those intimidated by the fiery hue. And there will always be something to suit you, from rich blue-based shades to fiery orange-toned hues. So, whether you already have a favorite shade or are on the hunt for something new, see our 10 favorites here.
1Chanel
A rich, blue-toned red, Chanel’s classic Pirate is particularly flattering on golden skin tones. Also, the chic, click-open case never fails to impress. Chanel Rouge Allure Luminous Satin Lip Color in Pirate. £26; call 0207 493 3836 for stockists.
2Revlon
A classic, wearable red that suits most skin tones, Fire & Ice also boasts SPF 15 protection and a nourishing vitamin E and avocado oil complex.
Revlon Super Lustrous Lipstick in Fire & Ice. £7.49; available at www.boots.com.
3Dior
A true, brilliant red with a hint of orange, Dior’s punchy Trafalgar is as bold as they come. Dior Rouge Dior in Trafalgar. £26; available at www.houseoffraser.co.uk.
4Lipstick Queen
Are you intimidated by red lipstick? Not anymore. Lipstick Queen’s very versatile Medieval
lipstick is the brand’s bestseller thanks to its semi-sheer formulation, high levels of hydrating vitamin E and flattering berry-red hue. If you think red lipstick isn’t for you, think again. Lipstick Queen in Medieval. £22; available at uk.spacenk.com.
5MAC
Perhaps the most famous red lipstick of them all, MAC’s much-loved Ruby Woo is extra matt, extra red and lasts the whole night long.MAC Lipstick in Ruby Woo. £15.50; available at www.maccosmetics.co.uk.
6Tom Ford
For a bolt of highly-pigmented, long-lasting lip color, Tom Ford is the go-to brand. Creamy in texture and slightly pinkish-red in color, Cherry Lush is best worn alone for maximum impact. Tom Ford Lip Color in Cherry Lush. £37; available at www.selfridges.com.
7Rimmel
If anyone wears red lipstick well it’s Kate Moss – and her own range of colors for Rimmel are consequently fantastic. Shade #1 is a deep scarlet perfect for evenings – just pair with Moss-like tousled waves for an easy glamor. Rimmel Kate Lipstick is #1. £5.49; available at www.superdrug.com.
8Nars
A bright orange-red hue with a modern matt finish, Nars’s Heat Wave really pops on dark skin, paired with nothing but a coat or two of mascara on the eyes. Nars Semi Matte Lipstick in Heat Wave. £20; available at www.narscosmetics.co.uk.
9Bobbi Brown
A warm, rich red with a matt finish, Red Carpet adds a touch of retro glamor. Bobbi Brown Creamy Matte Lip Color in Red Carpet. £19.50; available at www.bobbibrown.co.uk.
10Burberry
Lightweight, hydrating and comfortable to wear, Burberry Kisses is a range of buildable lip colors ideal for those who like to be able to put on their lipstick and forget about it for the rest of the day. Military Red is bold, British and beautiful. Burberry Kisses in Military Red. £25; available at www.burberry.com.
