I’m rather timid when it comes to lipstick, but I have been inspired lately by all the stylish ladies in blogland who are sporting a pretty red shade on their lips. Something feels so effortless in just swiping on some color onto an otherwise bare face (or in my case, mascara only). And yet, it feels terribly high maintenance and glamorous at the same time. A lipstick paradox, if you will.
Picking a shade of red lipstick is best left to color experts and makeup artists. I picked mine, Revlon’s Fire and Ice (a classic) based on a recommendation from a magazine. The “true red” with warm undertones would look good with my fair (VERY fair) skin.
So far I’ve only worn it around the house. I know, I know. I told you, I’m timid. But it’s been valuable to learn how long it lasts, how long before my lips look flakey, how much to add when reapplying. And so I snapped a picture so you guys could see my new look. Maybe someday it will debut outside the apartment! As it was it took me about 60 self-portraits to end up with this slightly awkward photo.
(PS And yep, that’s the office, mostly finished except I need a new chair. Mine is impossible to sit for long periods of time in. Like, over five minutes).
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Aww that colour suits you loads. Id get out there and show the world. You are braver than i, who only puts lip balm on
) x
You look fabulous! I’m timid about red lipstick as well. (I have this weird complex about how I can’t wear it because I’m a redhead which is not true I know).
Maggie! I love it, it suits you perfectly!
Wow! I love it! You should definitly wear it outside the house!
I actually have a hard time wearing lipstick myself. I commend you for trying such a bold color! My freckles and strong eye brows tend to take up most of the attention on my face leaving little room for a jolt of color.
You look gorgeous! My mom and I always wear red lipstick together on Christmas day, it is our own little indulgent tradition. Of course I still haven’t been brave enough to wear it to Christmas Morning Church Service, lol, so it is mostly an at-home tradition!
Love you! P~
Gorgeous! I’ve been timid with the red lipstick too–for lipstick in general for that matter. Typically I go with a gloss. Maybe you’ve inspired me to give it a shot. But I’ll probably try it on around the house for awhile first too. (I feel like I’m talking about a new pair of shoes!)
You look fab!! Go out and show the world!
Hubba hubba! You look hot in that red lipstick Maggie!
I think you’ve found your perfect shade. Although I do hear you about the flakey part. Maybe a lip stain instead?
It looks stunning on you Maggie!!! Wear it outside the house for sure….perhaps at a holiday party?
It looks really great! Go outside!
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YOWZA!!! Looks gorgeous! I’ve never been able to pull that look off. I need to take some advice from you!
Oh yay!! So glad to see it worked out! Looks great! Thanks again for sending me that, so nice of you. I think I mention this, but i’ve been wearing it with a light layer and then clear lipgloss over top for outdoors, lol. It’s a good “transitioning” way to do it, hahaha.
Yow! Love it!
I tend to save my red lips for special occasions (because it just ends up being a mess at work), but I’ve definitely learned a few tricks. I always apply mine with a brush instead of right out of the tube- achieving sheer coverage and a nice clean line. Also, most lipsticks these days are super sticky- apply lightly instead of blotting (tissue + lips = way gross). Lastly, I use a slightly peachy tinted balm over the top. The balm helps it from clumping or flaking, but it doesn’t add too much shine.
Anyway, keep rocking it, you look great!
Wow, everyone! Thanks so much for your kind and encouraging comments
Hmm I have an event coming up on Monday, maybe it will make its public debut then!
And great tips from some of the other lipstick-wearers! Thanks for sharing. My routine: exfoliate lips lightly with a damp washcloth. Apply a thin coat of balm to moisturize (lips shouldn’t be slick though, just not-dry). Apply (carefully) and even coat of lipstick. I don’t use lipliner. Blot thouroughly with a tissue (paper towel works too because it’s not as flaky). Really make sure the color is smooshed into your lips and is absorbed, but maintain the clean line around your mouth (touch up with makeup remover if necessary). Apply one skimming coat of the lipstick again to keep it fresh. Not too thick! This is the layer you’ll be freshening in the ladies room, the bottom layer should stay put. Take care when eating or drinking to not wipe your mouth around too much (or with a napkin).
Good luck! I’ll try to let you know if I make it out the door (probably via twitter).
xox Maggie