The Lipstick Guide: What shade to use for key occasions
There are certain emotions and impressions that come with particular colors, which then makes them the perfect weapon if you know how to use them. You can leverage these things according to the effect you want to achieve on people. Some can call it manipulation, but I like to call it resourcefulness. :)
That said, there are no hard and fast rules when choosing lipstick shades. In the end, it depends on your personality, location, and the kind of people you are with. You can even just pick your signature shade and wear it anywhere you like. But if you're the kind of girl who changes lipsticks more often than she changes shoes, then honey, this is for you! Let your lipsticks do the talking!
Going on your first date with a special someone? You can never go wrong with a glossy, flirty-yet-innocent pink lipstick. It doesn't scream *too much* but it's not blah either! Whether you're wearing a chiffon dress or something casual, a pink lipstick like the Cover Girl Lip Perfection Lipstick in Dazzle will look gorgeous on you. A glossy finish like this makes your lips look plumper and more kissable.
So you guys hit if off, huh? Congrats! If you want to make a good impression when you meet his parents, there's nothing better than a sheer peach or coral shade. It's a non-threatening color, plus it's quite cheerful and uplifting. It won't shock his parents for sure, with the additional benefit of giving you a brighter, more positive-looking face. This color, such as the Shu Uemura Rouge Unlimited Supreme Shine in OR 541, is perfect with sun dresses!
According to the New York Times, makeup "...increases people’s perceptions of a woman’s likability, her competence and (provided she does not overdo it), [and] her trustworthiness, according to a new study..." Wearing subtle, enhancing makeup to a job interview can definitely increase your chances of being hired. Go for a sensible brown rose lipstick like the Estee Lauder Pure Color Lipstick in Bois de Rose to look more put-together and professional.
Once you're hired, a pleasant, friendly brown pink color is the perfect everyday shade. It makes you look more approachable and not too distracting. A color like this is usually called the My Lips But Better (MLBB) shade - it's very close to the actual color of your lips, but when worn it enhances what you have immensely. The lippie featured above is the Avon Valentine Brights Colorbliss Lipstick in Fresh Rose.
A hot pink lipstick can do no wrong in a party with lots of dancing, drinking, and just clean smashing fun. It's great with shimmery and bodycon dresses, heels, and a glass of margarita. Featured above is the Beauty UK Lip Vinyl in Pure Pacha!
There is nothing more romantic than a wedding. It's the day when two hearts beat as one, when two people celebrate their love in front of friends and family. Go with the mood by wearing a romantic berry lippie with your dress. It says "I'm happy for you and I mean it"! It's a fun, grown-up shade, and oh it looks fantastic in photos. ;) Try the Avon Ultra Moisture Rich Rose Lipstick in Amelia Rose!
Are you going to an evening engagement with lots of speeches and polite clapping? Somewhere with men in suits and women, tasteful evening gowns? Then red is the perfect color for the occasion. It's an elegant, fierce color that would look particularly good with a black dress. A classic like MAC Russian Red says "I'm confident and beautiful and you can bet your bottom dollar that I know it!"
And that's it! Do you have your own lipstick suggestions? Would love to hear your thoughts!
