Which Lipstick Suits Me?
Shopping for lipstick from among thousands of available colors and formulas can be a daunting task. The huge variety of hues, textures, and finishes can be overwhelming. However, the perfect lipstick complements your personality and style, enhances your looks, and boosts your confidence level.
But how do you choose the right lipstick color? The answer lies in determining which shade suits your face shape, skin tone, and lip shape. Let's delve into each aspect to help you find the perfect lipstick.
Face Shape
Your face shape is the foundation of your overall look, so it's essential to choose a color that complements and balances your face structure. Generally, there are six face shapes - oval, round, heart, square, diamond, and rectangular. Depending on your shape, you can opt for light or bold colors or even a combination of both.
- Oval: Go for darker shades as it highlights your features and creates a sharp contrast.
- Round: Choose bright shades that add dimension to your face.
- Heart: Opt for cooler or softer shades as they balance your cheekbones and jawline.
- Square: Go for brighter colors as they add definition to your face.
- Diamond: Pick bolder shades as they draw attention to your cheekbones and create balance.
- Rectangular: Choose matte or satin finish shades as they add volume to your lips.
We advise experimenting with various shades to see which one works best for your face structure and personal preferences. Don't shy away from mixing and matching as you might find your perfect match.
Skin Tone
The next factor you need to consider is your skin tone, which determines the base tone of your lips. There are three skin undertones - cool, neutral, and warm. The ideal lipstick color complements your skin tone and doesn't clash with it.
- Cool: If you have a cool skin tone, choose blue-based colors such as pink, red, and purple.
- Neutral: People with a neutral skin tone can wear almost any color, depending on personal preference.
- Warm: If you have a warm skin tone, go for colors with a yellow or orange base, such as coral, peach, and bronze.
If you're still unsure about your undertone, you can check the veins on your wrist. If they appear blue, you have a cool undertone. If they seem green, you have a warm undertone. If they look both blue and green, you have a neutral undertone.
Lip Shape
Finally, your lip shape affects how lipstick wears on you. While lip shape does not determine how you wear lipstick, it does give you insight into how it may appear. Here are the four main lip shapes and which shades to choose for each.
- Thin lips: Go for lighter or neutral shades, which make your lips appear fuller.
- Full lips: Opt for bold colors, which add intensity to your lips and make them the focal point.
- Bow-shaped lips: Choose colors that accentuate your bow shape, with darker shades focusing on the bow, and lighter shades emphasizing the medial line.
- Straight lips: Balance your lips with deeper shades on the exterior and lighter shades on the center.
These are just guidelines to help you get started; ultimately, your personal preference should guide you in choosing a color that complements your style and makes you feel confident.
In conclusion, knowing your face shape, skin tone, and lip shape is crucial in choosing the perfect lipstick. By following the tips above, you can experiment with various shades and finishes to see which ones work best for you. Don't be afraid to try something new as you might discover a new favorite lipstick.
Lip Size
When it comes to lipstick, one size definitely does not fit all, especially when it comes to lip size. Those with thin lips may want to avoid very dark or bright colors as this can make lips look even thinner. Instead, opt for lighter shades or a lip tint to add a natural looking flush to the lips. Those with fuller lips can really embrace bold colors and matte finishes. Bright reds and pinks will make a statement and enhance the fullness of the lips.
But don't feel limited by your lip size, there are ways to customize your lipstick look for your specific lip shape. For example, a touch of highlighter on the cupid's bow can add extra definition to smaller lips. Alternatively, a darker shade on the outer corners of the lips can give the illusion of fullness to larger lips. Play around and have fun with different lip looks to see what works best for you.
- Thin lips: Lighter shades and lip tints
- Full lips: Bold colors and matte finishes
- Customize for your specific lip shape
Occasion
Choosing the right lipstick for the occasion is key to pulling off a polished and cohesive look. A bold red lip can be a power move in a professional setting, but may not be appropriate for a casual brunch with friends. A nude or subtle pink can be a versatile option for everyday wear and can be dressed up or down as needed.
For a special occasion such as a wedding or formal event, consider a long-lasting liquid lipstick to ensure your color stays put all night. Dark, moody shades can also be appropriate for evening events, while daytime events call for lighter, brighter shades.
- Professional setting: Bold red lip
- Casual setting: Nude or subtle pink
- Special occasion: Long-lasting liquid lipstick
- Evening events: Dark, moody shades
- Daytime events: Lighter, brighter shades
Personal Style
Your personal style should be reflected in your lipstick choice. If you are someone who likes to play it safe with neutral tones and natural finishes, a matte nude or pink may be your go-to. On the other hand, those who love to experiment with bold looks and bright colors may opt for a statement red or even a metallic finish.
It's important to remember that there are no hard and fast rules when it comes to personal style. If you want to try something new, go for it! The great thing about lipstick is that it is a temporary change that can be easily removed if it doesn't work out.
- Neutral/natural style: Matte nude or pink
- Bold/experimental style: Statement red or metallic finish
- There are no rules! Experiment and have fun
Application Tips
Even the most perfect shade can look messy if it is not applied correctly. Here are a few tips to ensure your lipstick looks flawless:
- Prep your lips: exfoliate and moisturize for a smooth canvas
- Use a lip liner: this can help define the shape of your lips and prevent bleeding
- Apply with a brush: this can help with precision and prevent excess product from gathering at the corners of the mouth
- Blot and reapply: this can help to ensure even coverage and longevity
- Clean up any mistakes: a bit of concealer on a small brush can help to clean up any smudges or mistakes
Remember, practice makes perfect when it comes to applying lipstick. Don't be afraid to try out different techniques and find what works best for you.
