A few weeks ago, on a grey, Toronto day, a stranger stopped me and told me she loved my vibrant, poppy red lipstick. She said that it brightened up her day and probably did so for everyone I passed on the street…*blush*
In my line of work, I meet an incredible number of women who are afraid of lipstick–particularly bright, playful ones. I’m not sure what makes a little stick of colour so scary, but the phobia is rampant. Nowadays, lipstick comes in so many different formulations, shades and textures that there is really nothing to fear. There is something out there for everyone, so be bold, put away your go-to-gloss and grab yourself some lippy!
From left to right:
Stain
A stain is a great way to add colour to the lips without feeling like you’re wearing anything. Although the word ‘stain’ might make you feel a little anxious, new formulations allow you to control the intensity of colour. By simply layering the product you can have a hint of colour or build for a punchy pout. Get a stain that is two shades darker than your natural lip colour, apply within your lip line and feel the freedom of maintenance-free colour. Try Sephora Collection Lush Flush Lip and Cheek Stain, $12.00.
Creamy
A creamy lipstick combines the rich colour of a matte with the softness of a balm. This type of lipstick can be worn light or bright and with or without a lip pencil. Versatile and comfortable to wear this rich formulation often contains vitamin E to help keep lips smooth and supple. Try Rimmel Moisture Renew Moisturizing Lipstick, $8.49.
Matte
A matte lipstick harps back to the days of old Hollywood glamour but without the drying effects of lipsticks from that time. These days matte lipsticks are made with smoothing properties so colour glides on and doesn’t look cakey. A classic matte red is super sexy and sophisticated. Best used with a lip pencil to add definition to your lips. Try MAC Mattene Lipstick, $17.50.
Long lasting
For busy women who don’t have time to touch up every couple of hours, a long lasting formulation can be applied in the morning and will stay put until after lunch. Try Estee Lauder Double Stay-in-Place Lipstick, $30.00.
Sheer
The most fail-safe of all the lipsticks this formulation gives a wash of sheer colour without the commitment of a full pigment lipstick. It’s easy to slick on without a mirror and you still get the moisturizing benefits of a lip balm. Try Revlon Colorburst Lip Butter, $10.49.
Louise Griew is a Toronto-born makeup artist whose second home is Melbourne, Australia. Her work can be seen in national and international advertising campaigns, magazines, music videos and on TV.
