How To Wear Red Lipstick

A bold red lip is timeless, powerful, and effortlessly glamorous—but finding the right shade and knowing how to wear it can be tricky. Whether you're going for a classic Hollywood red or a bold modern twist, we’ve got all the tips and tricks to perfect your red lipstick makeup looks! From choosing the best shade for your skin tone to applying it flawlessly and pairing it with the right eye makeup, this guide will help you master the art of red lips with confidence.

HOW TO PERFECTLY APPLY RED LIPSTICK

Does the thought of applying a bold lip intimidate you? We have got you covered! Check out our previous blog HOW TO APPLY RED LIPSTICK PERFECTLY for a step by step tutorial and everything you need to achieve the perfect red lip.

Though if you're ready to flaunt your red lips - read on for expert styling tips!

HOW TO CHOOSE THE RIGHT RED LIPSTICK SHADE FOR YOUR SKIN TONE

The key to pulling off red lipstick is choosing the perfect shade for your complexion. 

• Fair Skin Tones: These tend to look best with blue-based reds, such as cherry or raspberry hues. These cooler shades provide a striking contrast against pale skin while maintaining an elegant, classic feel. A great option is MODELROCK’s Strawberry Fields, a red with a pink undertone that enhances fair complexions beautifully. 
• Medium Skin Tones: For those with medium skin tones, warm-toned reds like brick or tomato shades complement the natural warmth in the skin, creating a sun-kissed glow. Tomato Tango, a bright and bold red, is the perfect pick for medium skin tones seeking a vibrant finish. 
• Olive Skin Tones: If you have olive skin, orange-based reds and deep, earthy tones work beautifully to enhance your golden undertones, giving a seamless and flattering look. Try Lady Marmalade, an orange-based red that brings out the warmth in olive skin. 
• Deep Skin Tones: These tones shine in bold berry, wine, or deep crimson shades, as these rich, pigmented colours add dimension and drama, making the lips stand out effortlessly. Forbidden Red, a deep and sultry red, is a fantastic choice for deeper complexions, offering a striking contrast. 

For a universally flattering true red, Rock Out Red is the ultimate classic shade that works across all skin tones. Experimenting with different undertones and finishes will help you discover your perfect red.

For more tips on choosing lipstick shades, head over to our blog HOW TO CHOOSE THE BEST LIPSTICK SHADE FOR YOUR SKIN TONE. This blog covers topics such as lipstick shades, undertones, finishes and how to choose what will work for you personally.

LIP PREP 101: THE SECRET TO LONG-LASTING RED LIPS MAKEUP

A flawless red lip starts with the right preparation, ensuring smooth application and long-lasting wear. Exfoliation is the first step—using a gentle lip scrub removes any dry or flaky skin, providing an even canvas for lipstick. Hydration is equally important; applying a nourishing lip balm keeps your lips soft and prevents the lipstick from settling into fine lines or cracks. Once your lips are prepped, priming them with a lip primer or a dab of concealer helps intensify the colour and improve longevity. This extra step creates a barrier between your lips and the lipstick, reducing feathering and smudging throughout the day. If you want a perfectly sculpted and plump lip look, try slightly overlining your lips with a lip liner before applying lipstick.

STEP-BY-STEP GUIDE TO THE PERFECT RED LIPSTICK MAKEUP LOOK

Applying red lipstick can feel intimidating, but with the right technique, you can achieve a clean, polished finish every time. 

1. Begin by outlining your lips with a lip liner that closely matches your lipstick shade. This not only defines the shape of your lips but also prevents the colour from bleeding. For an extra voluminous effect, slightly overline the cupid’s bow and centre of the lower lip. 
2. Next, apply your lipstick with precision—using a lip brush gives you more control and allows for even coverage, especially around the edges. 
3. To enhance the staying power of your lipstick, apply one layer, blot with a tissue to remove excess product, then apply a second layer. This layering technique helps lock in the pigment and prevents fading. 
4. Finally, for a crisp, professional finish, use a small concealer brush to clean up any uneven edges, giving your lips a perfectly sculpted look.

RED LIPSTICK MAKEUP LOOKS TO SUIT ANY MOOD

Red lipstick is incredibly versatile, allowing you to create different looks depending on your mood and occasion. For a timeless, glamorous style, pair a bold red lip with winged eyeliner—this vintage Hollywood-inspired combination is effortlessly chic. If you prefer a more understated yet polished look, keep your eye makeup minimal with soft, neutral tones and let a matte red pout take centre stage. For those who love drama and bold statements, a deep red lipstick paired with a smoky eye creates a sultry, high-impact effect, perfect for an evening out. If you’re in the mood for something fresh and playful, dewy skin with a glossy red lip brings a youthful and radiant touch to your makeup, making it ideal for daytime or summer occasions.

BALANCING YOUR LOOK: THE BEST EYE MAKEUP FOR RED LIPS

Since red lips make such a bold statement, it’s important to balance your overall makeup look for harmony. A minimalist approach often works best, keeping eye makeup soft and neutral to let the lips be the main attraction. For a more dramatic effect, pairing red lips with voluminous lashes—like MODELROCK’s Signature Range—creates an ultra-glamorous appearance. If you love a fresh and glowing finish, adding a touch of shimmer to your eyelids and choosing natural-looking lashes can enhance your look without overpowering it. The key is to ensure that your eye makeup complements your lips rather than competes with them.

MODELROCK MUST-HAVES TO PERFECT YOUR RED LIP LOOK

Achieving a flawless red lip isn't just about the lipstick—it’s about having the right tools to perfect and maintain your look. To ensure precision and longevity, MODELROCK offers essential beauty must-haves to take your red lipstick makeup up a notch.

• The Professional Pro TipFormer Sharpener isn't your average sharpener—this innovative tool allows you to customise the tip of your lip liner for precise application. Activate the Sharp Pointed Precision Tip to sculpt the perfect Cupid’s bow or switch to the Rounded Soft Tip for effortless colouring in. A well-sharpened lip liner is key to achieving a defined and polished lip shape while preventing feathering.
• For a clean and professional finish, keep Ultra Fine Mini Touch-up Buds on hand. These precision cotton buds are designed for touch-ups, allowing you to correct any mistakes and sharpen the edges of your lipstick with ease. Paired with a steady hand and a bit of concealer, they help create a crisp, runway-ready pout.
• To complement your bold lip, lashes play a vital role in balancing the overall look. Fluffy Wispy Lashes add an elegant touch without overpowering the lips, while bold, voluminous lashes create a dramatic, high-glamour effect.

With the right tools and techniques, achieving the perfect red lipstick makeup look has never been easier!

DON'T FORGET ABOUT YOUR ENTIRE LOOK

Last but not least, consider the outfit and accessories you will be wearing. A red lip looks incredible paired with neutral colours such as beige, white, or grey. You also cannot go wrong with a classic little black dress and red lips. Going for a neutral outfit will emphasise your bold lip and make it the centre of attention. If you're wearing something red, try wearing a LIPSTICK that is a slightly different tone. This will prevent you from looking too uniform.

CONCLUSION

Red lipstick makeup looks are bold, beautiful, and totally wearable with the right shade and technique. No matter your style, there’s a red lipstick shade—and the perfect lashes—to match! Whether you’re rocking a classic matte red or experimenting with a high-shine glossy finish, confidence is the key to pulling off this timeless trend.

What’s your go-to red lipstick shade? Let us know in the comments below!