Gimme red!

Manpriya Singh

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While everyone remembers Marilyn Monroe for her iconic flying skirt, there are several who picture her signature red lips. Furthermore, what do Anne Hathaway, Dita Von Teese and Taylor Swift have in common? There’s a red for everyone. Everyone! Just sometimes to stain the cheeks, but most of all to paint the lips. Crimson, scarlet, burgundy, vermillion, a right shade of red lipstick can do wonders to the outfit and the occasion. All it takes is some practice and some spirits to get it right!

Night & day

Want to make casual jeans and a tee-shirt look dressy, add a hint of red to the outfit.

Red during the day sounds like a warning sign. How to wear it during the day? Importantly, can it be worn during summer? More importantly, can it be worn on a summer day? “Red lipstick can be totally worn during day time. Just that there are several things one must keep in mind before donning this colour. For instance, if you are wearing a complete red outfit then red lipstick is a big no, irrespective of the time and season,” Shivani, owner Odara—Make up palette by Shivani, lays some absolute ground rules.

She adds, “While applying darker shades of red, always look at achieving a matte effect. Glossy lips should ideally be paired with lighter colours.” Instead of a proper lipstick, day time is perfect for red-coloured balms and lip-stains.

Colour code

Go fabulously right or horribly wrong, there’s not a third way with a red colour. Like we said, there’s a red for everyone. From Naomi Campbell to Emma Stone, from porcelain skin to a redhead! “One must choose the lipstick not only as per complexion but also as per lipstick textures. They can be matte, cream-based or with or without shimmer. Sunny days are perfect for cream-based lipsticks,” opines Deepali Verma, owner, Glitz Salon, Gurgaon. While skin colour can noticeably be divided into fair, medium and dark. There’s a lot that undergoes in choosing the right shade; for instance, the skin’s undertones, which can be safely compartmentalised into cool, warm and neutral. Depending on the skin’s undertones, those with a fair complexion should think of coral reds. They add a shot of colour, but don’t overpower. Those with medium tones can go for anything from proper red to pinky-cranberry shades. While dusky-hued complexion often goes well with deep, rich shades of red like burgundy or warm brick colour.

manpriya@tribunemail.com