Spring has sprung and it is just about time to spend all day out at the park for us. I am so over school (even though I am not the one in it…) and can’t wait for summer break. One thing I love for spring and summer, is a bright, bold lip. Fun colors just scream at me when the weather heats up, and I can’t help but wear one every day, even when I am rocking my chucks and a t-shirt. If you have been wanting to play around with bright lipsticks, but are a little hesitant to step outside your box, now is the time! I am going to get into all the secrets for my fellow jeans and tee girl’s to wearing a bright lip.
For years I stuck to nudes, my-lips-but-better shades and gloss. I always wanted to wear a bold lip, but didn’t think it would work with my casual style. So, started playing around at home for a few weeks. I could totally rock a red lip while vacuuming all by myself. And then I ran out to the bodega with a bright coral and no one gave me a second glance. Next thing I new, I was wearing hot purple at preschool drop off in my yoga pants like it was no big deal. And with a little guidance, you can too!
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Take it slow.
This is my biggest tip when venturing into any new style, whether it be a new to your dress shape, false lashes, or bright red lipstick. Don’t put it on for the first time before a big meeting or if you are going to be out all day without a chance to check on things. Just run out to the grocery store for a few things or meet a friend for coffee. Test the waters. With lipstick, you want to make sure you’re comfortable doing all the things. No lipstick should get in the way of drinking coffee!
Keep it simple. And matte.
If you are off to a fancy date night or walking the red carpet, go ahead and smoke out your eyeshadow and work that lipstick, honey. But… If you are just chilling with the other moms on a park bench in your distressed jeans and yogurt covered t-shirt, keep the rest of your makeup natural. A little bronzer in your crease, a small winged liner and fresh, dewy looking skin are going to keep you from looking over done.
When going for a more casual bright lip, always choose a matter finish. This really helps keep the feel of relaxed and not trying too hard. Matte lipsticks generally stay much longer than cream or gloss finishes and they tend to stay in place like a boss.
Set it real good.
Before you apply your lipstick, line your lips either with a similar shade, a nude lip liner, or go around your lip line with a little concealer. This is my favorite way to make sure my lipstick isn’t running down my chin by lunch. Using a small brush, outline your lip lightly with a the same concealer you used on your blemishes. Skin shade, not under eye Kim K shade. use the brush to lightly blend it out. Using your favorite setting powder, set your concealer in place. This is going to keep your lipstick where it should ALL DAY.
Be prepared for the worst.
Pack your lipstick in your purse. Maybe a few tissues. And some chapstick. If you need to touch up, which you probably will around lunch time, you are set with the essentials. Start fresh when you are reapplying by taking off your lipstick for the most part with a tissues. Moisturizing your lips with some balm. And swiping your color back over. It will give you a polished, fresh lip again without getting flakey and caked on.
Work it, babe.
Last, but certainly not least, be confident. I can promise you that the only thing anyone will say to you is, “I love that lip color on you!” You can completely shine in whatever you wear, whether it be cheerio covered sweats, the evening gown of your dreams, or your favorite pair of converse. Be bold. And love it!
The shade I am wearing here is Urban Decay Vice Matte Lipstick in Menace. It is my all time favorite for a bold, bright lip!
