Lady Lipstick

Lady Lipstick

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Photo Credit/Model: Ciara Cornejo

The arrival of Spring and appearance of sunshine has me feeling vibrant. We’re all excited right? You can see it in our smiles and what better way to brighten your smile than lipstick! It really can brighten the appearance of your pearly whites but also, like blush, adds character and color to your beautiful face. You can compliment a full face of colors or dress up a natural look.

Choosing the perfect shade can be a daunting task. None of us wants to feel like a clown or hear “What was she thinking?” Some trends seem too bold but no need to fret you can find the perfect new shade or have a little fun with some helpful tips and what’s in this Spring:

1. Find a brand that fits your budget and embrace it. Although NARS and other expensive brands have a gorgeous selection, I have found a couple of my favorite lipsticks amongst E.L.F at Target for $1 and another favorite shade of red that is so worn the color or brand is a mystery but it is packaged from a basic grocery store. You can flaunt inexpensive and still look like a diva.

2. Perhaps look for a lipstick with a moisturizer in it but definitely pair your shade with a good lip conditioner or even Chapstick. You can apply the balm before you put your make up on to allow enough time for it to soak in so your lip base is smooth and supple.

*For really chapped lips I like to use Mary Kay Satin Lips mask and balm Or use a buff puff to smooth off dead skin.

3. Know your skin tone and matches. Makeup artist Bobbi Brown suggests that the most flattering shade of lipstick will be a shade or two darker than your bare lips. Typically Fair Skin matches well with nudes, pinks, and corals, Medium skin tones should wear mauve, berries, or rose, and Darker skin tones can accessorize with reds, purples, or chocolate shades. There may be exceptions but this is a great basis.

4. Although it would be ideal to try the lipstick before you purchase, some stores don’t have samples on display. If you buy a lipstick color you don’t quite like keep it! You can mix it with another color to create your own shade. I also like dabbing my finger in an eyeshadow and adding that over my lipstick for a shimmer finish or just a unique shade.

5. Red is a big hit this Spring all around. The trick is finding one that matches your skin just right and compliments you rather than overbearing your look. Red makes your lips look bigger and fuller so if it fits you comfortably go Red.

6. Nude lips are just as flattering and allow you to dress up the eyes and keep the attention on your eyes or luscious lashes.

7. Be Bold. I’m feeling like fuchsia or orangey shades of lipstick will be a beautiful addition for me this Spring. I got to rock a lovely dark pinkish-purple on the runway earlier this month and it matched well with my outfit and skin for a fabulous Springy look. When in doubt ask a friend, take a step back from the mirror, or snap a photo and come back to it. It’s okay to try out a new look and ultimately you can’t judge lipstick shades by their sticker or packaged appearance, Try it on!