Your Ultimate Red Lipstick Shopping Guide

Think you can’t pull off red lipstick? Think again. There’s a statement shade of red to suit everyone, and we’ve pulled together the ultimate guide to helping you find your match. It all comes down to undertone, so you know the drill: look at the veins on the underside of your arm to determine whether you’re cool, neutral or warm. It’s simple to figure out. If your veins are purple-ish, you have cool undertones. If they veer green, it’s more likely that your complexion is warm-toned. As for those who just can’t tell – or tend to be a mix of the two – consider your undertone neutral. Now, let’s find your perfect red lipstick…

If You’re Cool-Toned…

… look for warmer reds with a hint of orange or yellow to make a statement. Tomato, brick and poppy tones should be your ultimate ride-or-die hues.

Your Lip Liner: Because every red lipstick deserves a good lip liner, prep your pout with Moisture Renew Clear Lip Liner. This magic pencil prevents colour bleeding, while locking your lip look down for longer.

Your Lip-Plumping Gloss: Everyone knows a lip gloss makes your lips look instantly fuller. Your ultimate shade? Oh My Gloss! In Rebel Red; a scarlet hue with a dose of warm gold shimmer.

Your Sophisticated Satin: This is the most classic lip finish. If satin lipstick is your vibe, try Lasting Finish Lipstick in Alarm for a true orange-red, or take it brighter with Coral in Gold

Your Major Matte: If you’re mad for matte lipstick, Stay Matte Liquid Lip Colour is the one you’ve been looking for. Swipe on the shade Fire Starter for the punchiest, poppiest pout going. We’re obsessed.

If You’re Warm-Toned…

… create a stand-out lip look with red lipstick that boasts a cool, bluish undertone. Anything from a raspberry red to a burgundy-plum will look incredible.

Your Lip Liner: Define the shape of your lips then fill them in using Exaggerate Automatic Lip Liner in Red Diva. This vibrant, blue-toned shade can be worn alone or as a long-lasting base for your lipstick.

Your Lip-Plumping Gloss: Once you’ve got your red lip liner on, glide Oh My Gloss! In Crystal Clear over the top. These two make the ultimate power couple if you’re going for that glam Hollywood look.

Your Sophisticated Satin: Oh, hi, Stay Satin Liquid Lipstick in Redical. This true, classic red is the dream for a day-to-night red lip look, as it pairs perfectly with both a smokey eye and a subtle stroke of winged eyeliner. The dream.

Your Major Matte: We’re calling it; Stay Matte Liquid Lip Colour in Fire Starter looks flames on every skin tone, so swipe it on. Then, if you’re looking to take it to the next level, check out our matte lipstick tips and tricks.

If You’re Neutral…

... you can wear any of the above red lipsticks. Plus, we’ve got plenty more to tick off all your statement makeup goals.

Let’s start with the lowest intensity. For a sheer, balmy kiss of cherry red colour, try Moisture Renew Lipstick in Mayfair Red Lady. Oh My Gloss! Oil Tint in Pop Poppy also offers a glossy hint of a tint, all wrapped up in a lip-loving blend of four nourishing precious oils.

To ramp up the pigment pay-off, go for Stay Satin Liquid Lipstick in Rad, which veils your pout in a berry-red tone that makes your teeth appear whiter. And, our personal favourite for Saturday nights? It’s got to be Lip Art Glitter in Red-y Or Not; an insane, max-impact glitter you can wear alone or as a sparkly top coat for lipstick.

Quick Red Lip Tips

Now you’ve found your perfect red lipstick, keep it looking fierce with our easy lip tricks. Here are the hacks you need to know if you’re ready to go bold…

To Make Red Lipstick Casual: We’re firm believers in wearing the brightest red lipstick every. single. day. But, if you want a more low-key look, try gently blotting – not swiping - it on until you achieve a soft, stain-like finish.

To Clean Up Any Smudges: A brush-on concealer is your BFF if you’re prone to smudging your lipstick. After applying a bold red, trace the outer edge of your lip with Match Perfection Concealer to erase mistakes.

To Give Your Lip Longevity: If you’ve applied a satin or matte lipstick, hold a sheet of tissue paper over your lips, then lightly dust a loose face powder on top of that. Next, remove the tissue and glide on a second layer of lipstick. Long-lasting lip look, sorted.

Next up: complete your lip wardrobe with our step-by-step guide on how to make matte lipstick look major.