Lipstick lesbian: the right red for your skin tone

Let’s do a quick word association game. I say “lipstick lesbian” and you think … what? Sharp, fierce, feminine; heels, dresses and hair: no matter what the image created in the few seconds I gave you, I am guessing that the majority of these conceptual lipstick lesbians are wearing, well, lipstick.

Now zero in on those pouty lips of hers and what shade of lip stain is she rocking? If it is anything like her personality, it is a wild, daring, beautiful red – a color that perfectly complements her skin tone while bringing both sophistication and fun that only red lipstick can bestow upon a woman’s look. Now this perfection is no easy task- red is a fickle color that needs to be matched to the skin tone of whomever is wearing it. To avoid any association with the clown act at the circus, follow the tips and suggestions below to find the prefect red lip for your type of skin.

Dark skin

Darker complexions will benefit from deep, rich burgundy shades of red or warm brick lip color. Avoid super bright colors that may contain hints of coral or pink, as they tend to look too harsh on warmer skin tones.

L’Oreal Paris Colour Riche Lipcolour in Red Rhapsody, $8.95

This deep wine-color lipstick will keep lips soft and conditioned with ultra-hydrating ingredients like omega 3, vitamin E and moisturizing oil.

Rimmel London Lasting Finish by Kate Moss in 01, $4.63

Infused with black diamond, this hot red will pop against darker skin tones. A semi-matte finish makes this shade both office and evening appropriate (even if your actions may not be).

Medium skin

To complement skin with golden undertones, look for true red lipsticks or lipstick red that contains cranberry-pink undertones.

Clinique Chubby Stick Intense in Mightiest Maraschino, $16

Those familiar to Clinique’s usually sheer chubby stick might be surprised by the opaque shade of red found in this hydrating balm. It’s dark enough to be on the edge of sexy, but still contains itself enough to let you rock the red at more casual occasions.

Chanel Rouge Allure in Audace, $34

Although I have already mentioned Chanel’s Roughe Allure line, its shades are so elegant and finish so smooth it deserves another shout out. With a coraly-orange shade that demands attention, Audance would be perfect for those hot and steamy summer nights.

Fair skin

Coral reds are less intense on fair skin than a bright red, complementing the pinkish glow found in many fair skin tones. If your really itching towards a full red lip, choose a color that is more of a bluish shade of red rather than one with warm undertones.

Tom Ford Rouge Lip Color in Slander, $48

Not for beginners, this lipstick goes on like a thick cream thanks to ingredients such as Brazillian murumuru buter and soja seed extract. No need to worry about packing the tube in your purse or overnight bag (we don’t judge): the dramatic matte color will last all night.

Chanel Rouge Allure Luminous Intense Lip Color in Pirate, $34

For those fair ladies that have always shied away from a red lip, let Chanel lip color be your guide into the world of dramatic color. The blue undertones and satiny finish will make sure you never go back to those girly pinks you’ve been holding on to for years.