Taylor Swift may be known for giving us hits like "Cruel Summer" and "Bad Blood," but fans also know her look isn't complete without red lipstick. Whether she's onstage performing, accepting an award, or supporting her boyfriend Travis Kelce at the Chief's games, her smudge-proof red lips are always in attendance. Although it may not seem like much, seeing her rock a bold shade reignited my love for bold makeup. But, I'd be lying if I said it was easy to remember makeup hacksthat'll help others find the best red lip stick for their complexion.
To help me get back on the right track, I reached out to the clever author Candice Brathwaite-Aboderin about her signature lip. Aside from having an appealing sense of style and an unforgettable way with words, her signature red lipstick also captures my attention whenever she wears it. She usually wears Fenty Beauty's Fenty Icon Velvet Liquid Lipstick in "The MVP" or Trish McEvoy in Red with MAC Cosmetics Nighmoth lip liner.
She said, "Funny enough, the inspiration behind wearing red lipstick was to be defiant. It had often been said that black women, particularly dark skinned black women, didn’t look good in red lipstick. I had already bucked the trend by shaving my head way before we knew who Amber Rose was so this felt no different."
Her decision to create a contrast that has a "perfect frame" for her lips is also intentional. "The idea to wear a darker lipliner (which creates an ombré effect) was definitely rooted in my love for 90’s hip hop and dancehall culture. All the female artists of that time leaned on a darker lipliner with a truck load of gloss on top," said Candice. Besides that, she prefers the way the lip liner helps her favorite shades not to look harsh on her.
Even though she and Taylor Swift have cracked the code for their complexions, we both know it's still not easy to find a shade you may love. To help simplify things, I spoke with veteran makeup artist and founder of premium makeup brush brand Artis(yes!) Matthew Waitesmith so you can find the best red lipstick that suits you. Also, keep reading to learn every shade Taylor Swift swears by!
Image via Sam Lion/Pexels
As the former VP of Artist Training and Development at MAC Cosmetics with consult work for Kiehl's, Lancôme, Nars, and La Mer, Matthew knows a thing or two about creating makeup looks that are specifically formulated different complexions. He said there are two things to consider when searching for the best red lipstick. "One is the value [lightness or deepness] of your skin's pigmentation. And the other consideration is the natural undertones occurring in your skin color.
The value of your skin is important to consider since how color looks is dependent on surrounding [colors]."
Matthew noted that a good example of this is by thinking about how the color blue may look different depending on the shade next to it. "...blue will look different if it is surrounded by a pale beige compared to a rich brown. The blue is the same, but it looks different because the surrounding colors influence how you see it in contrast."
Image via Patrick Smith / Staff / Getty Images Sport
There's been speculations about the exact shade of red lipstick Taylor Swift has been wearing to the Chief's game, but it can be argued that one of her favorite shades is by none other than makeup artist Pat McGrath. This is partly due to McGrath sharing how she made Taylor's "Bejeweled" music video looks come to life an interview with E! News last year. She said, "When I think of Taylor, I always think of a perfect red lip...I couldn't imagine not doing something with red lipstick."
Although the Pat McGrath Labs LiquiLUST: Legendary Wear Matte Lipstick in Elson is currently sold out, here's a few more of Taylor Swift's red lipstick picks as shared by Pop Sugar:
Image via Photo by Adrienne Andersen/Pexels
Contrary to what some may believe, deeper skin complexions are able to wear color well — including red lipstick. Matthew said, "A Person with a deep skin color value will be able to wear lots of different colors of red due to all the rich colors and undertones that surround the red lips."
This is the first shade of red lipstick I wore when I was granted permission to wear something bold. It definitely attracted a lot of attention in 2011, but I didn't care. I wore it every chance I got and purchased this many times over during my early 20s.
This is another beautiful shade for darker complexions that's not as bold as Ruby Woo. The color payoff is amazing and it doesn't budge as much.
In an effort for those with a deeper complexion to not feel excluded from wearing red lipstick, educator NaChé Thompson decided to create a shade that felt inclusive. Named after grandmother, she said "The right touch of blue makes Ruby the epitome of the perfect red lipstick to complement a wide range of skin tones. You can wear [Ruby] for up to nine solid hours without needing to reapply, and it defies the norm of dry and crusty matte lipsticks."
I've had a chance to wear it and find that the creamy texture is almost irresistible!
Image via Sephora
People with this complexion "generally have warm undertones that include golden or yellow as a part of the skin color composition. So, they should pick a red that includes them," said Matthew. He also indicated that medium complexions can include an olive undertone and that reds with warm undertones — like coral or even warm pink — will work for them.
Also known as Selena Gomez's favorite shade, "Inspire" is a bright-red that's hydrating despite it's matte finish. It literally glides onto the lips where it sits comfortably throughout the day.
Long before we know of Shonda Rhimes' Queen Charlotte, Ms. Tilbury was the one we bowed down to. Her matte revolution lipstick is considered a community favorite on Sephora and features the glorious "Red Carpet Red" shade that just looks like it belongs on the lips.
If you want to cause a commotion, you'll reach for Tom Ford's "Flame" matte lipstick. It's a bright red-orange that complements medium complexions like no other.
Image via Sephora
Patrick TA's Major Headlines Matte Suede Lipstick in "That's Why She's Late" Cherry Red
On other hand, Matthew said, "A lighter skin person needs to be more thoughtful about picking a red that plays nicely with the subtle undertones — pink or cool — of their skin. Choosing a red that includes neutral/pink or cool undertones will look like it belongs on the skin."
While this can be considered a universal red lipstick, "400 Four Hundred" looks like it was made for fairer complexions. It's comfortable enough to wear all day and will give you a nice pout.
Rev up the drama with this rebellious shade of red lipstick by Yves Saint Laurent. It's made without parabens or sulfates, so you won't have to fret about harsh chemicals on your lips!
What's full of hydrating ingredients that don't skimp on rich color? This shade by bareMinerals that's set to become the best red lipstick for your fair complexion.
Image via Sephora
Lastly, Matthew said, "...the best final step is to try several reds on, and at look at the resulting color in natural daylight to see if the red plays nicely with your skin color." He doesn't believe there's ever a "wrong" red, but feels that there are reds that can blend in better with your skin.
"Either way, red is a great way to bring attention to your look and get reactions, "he said. In other words, have fun finding the best red lipstick that complements your complexion and don't be afraid to be bold!
If you've found the best red lipstick you swear by, let us know in the comments! Shop more of our favorite products in our Amazon storefront!
Brit + Co. may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.
Image via Photo by Adrienne Andersen/Pexels
This post has been updated.
We’re ever so thankful that things are warming up a bit, and with a new season comes a whole new round of trends. Talking about color specifically, the 2024 Pantone Fashion Color Trend Reportgives a good guide to all the hues we’ll be seeing this summer. We hand-picked our 4 favorite colors that are approachable for everyday wear – and just downright fun. Hop into something vibrant, and explore the coolest summer colors for 2024 below.
Kimchi Blue Shay Smocked Cropped Top
This serene shade of yellow is honestly the “It” color of the season. It’s literally smooth like butter, and is super adorable alongside a good pair of denim shorts or jeans. Butter yellow is light and breezy, just like the summer season.
Knock out two trends at once with these simple butter yellow ballet flats that work wonderfully with skirts and jeans alike.
Since it was spotted on our fave gal, Taylor Swift, this purple-y hue isn't going anywhere. Lilac feels like an elegant graduation from lavender (ahem, someone play “Lavender Haze”), and we are totally here for it. It looks so dreamy on flowy skirt styles or more structured tops.
This casual tee is worthy of everyday wear. Its cotton construction makes it super breathable for the office or the gym.
You'll wanna jet around in this easygoing mini skort for those wild summer adventures. It's fitted with attached shorts for extra coverage and is delightfully stretchy so you have freedom of movement.
Old Navy High-Waisted Crinkle Gauze Pull-On Ankle Pants
Basic red was trending so hard last year, so it’s no surprise that its orange-y color cousin has entered the chat. Red-orange is just the shade you need for embracing summer, especially if where you live is heatin’ up. Make a statement with a red-orange dress, or even just add a simple pop of color with some earrings!
This fiery, flirty dress is an easy one-and-done for summer date nights. The fluttery sleeves and tied neckline add to a very whimsical vibe.
Add a splash of color to a basic get-up with these colorful hoops! They're fairly large, so you can't miss 'em.
Everlane The TENCEL™ Boxy Shirt
Denim is undeniably having its moment right now (everyone say “thank you, Beyoncé”), but it’s not always practical for the hotter months. That’s why chambray is the perfect solution! Chambray is essentially woven cotton, so it makes for a lighter, more breathable wear. You can rock it alongside more denim pieces, or even white pants or skirts to pull it off easily.
Step out in trendy style with these paneled slingbacks! The chunky square heel makes each and every step comfortable as ever.
Stretchy pants FTW! These easy, breezy chambray bottoms have a flattering wide waistband and a singular back pocket for practicality.
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Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.
Before it's time to head back to Hogwarts on September 1, it's time to stock up on all your back to school essentials. Whether you're grabbing the best planner to keep track of all your Defense Against the Dark Arts assignments or browsing all the back to school sales, you can't deny that the fun products are just as important as the necessary ones.
Enter: SHEGLAM x Harry Potter makeup, inspired by some of the most memorable potions in the Wizarding World and each Hogwarts house. Grab your favorite before they all disapparate!
This lipstick applies nice and smooth for a hydrating finish that ensures your lips look glassy and glittery. This isn't a Slytherin exclusive, but it definitely looks cunning ;).
Polyjuice Potion might completely transform you into a new person, but this lip gloss will make your lips brand new. With millet seed extract, it moisturizes and adds a glossy shine.
Add some liquid luck to your look with this Felix Felicis™ gloss. Not only is it glittery, but thyme extract makes everything extra shiny.
Get all your favorite potions in the Owl Post with this lip gloss set featuring Felix Felicis™, Polyjuice Potion™, Amortentia™, and Draught of Living Death™-inspired glosses.
Who wants to go up against Voldemort with chapped lips? Now, you don't have to thanks to this lip mask's meadowfoam seed oil.
Glittering blues and rich teals are perfect for all your nights out. Use them for a graphic liner look, or all over your lid for a major statement.
The golds and browns in this palette are perfect for creating a natural eye with a little extra pizzazz. 10 points to Hufflepuff!
Gold makes for the perfect summer eye. And with shades of rust and auburn, you can warm up your eye looks for fall, too!
Give your smokey eyes some understated color tonight, and add bright green come holiday season. You can do it all with this palette!
Tag us with your favorite SHEGLAM x Harry Potter makeup pick on Instagram!
Brit + Co. may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.
This post has been updated.
All images via SHEGLAM.With Mother’s Day just around the corner, it's time to start thinking about that something special to celebrate the special women in your life! Whether you’re celebrating your mom, grandma, MIL, or even your BFF’s mom, the women in your life deserve a thoughtful surprise (and a delicious brunch). If you're in a time crunch, check out these Amazon Mother's Day gifts you can order today!
This everyday serum boosts the brightness and elasticity of skin and reduces the look of dark spots. Get your mom on the way to her brightest glow with this affordable skincare pick that still offers spa-quality service.
Help her protect her luscious locks with these luxe-looking silk scrunchies. These hair ties have an amazing hold and don’t damage hair, so they are definitely worth the investment for everyday wear.
Get mom on the Sleepy Girl Mocktail wave ASAP with this flavored magnesium powder. Not only does it facilitate healthy sleep, a single dose also improves mood, reduces muscle aches, supports brain health, and supports bowel regularity.
This impressively powerful hair tool will be an instant replacement for all of her miscellaneous curlers, straighteners, and hair dryers. It basically serves as a three-in-one, using a high-velocity airflow to dry and style the hair in mere minutes.
This stylish wristwatch is as practical as it is cute. She can easily sport it to the office or when she's running errands!
This is any mom's dream gift. And now, it's on sale for 27% off!
Her coffee (or tea) routine will never be the same with this quick-heating electric kettle. It stands strong, being made of durable stainless steel and BPA-free plastic.
Her locks deserve some real love, and this hair mask gets the job done. It's formulated with ingredients that strengthen hair elasticity, prevent breakage, nourish strands, and repair damage.
Comfortable, high quality pajamas are hard to come by these days, let alone on Amazon. Gift mom or grandma this striped set for extra-restful sleep!
Coffee is a total no-brainer for moms everywhere, and this is the perfect piece for helping her perfect her caffeine routine! It specializes in making single servings, so she'll have a batch of freshly-brewed coffee all to herself. She'll have the option to brew a single mug with K-Cup pods or a carafe up to 12 cups.
This luxe pair of pots is eco-friendly, ethically manufactured, made with no harmful chemicals, and sustainably packaged for certified clean cooking in the kitchen. The two-piece set comes ready with storage organizers at no extra cost, which is especially important in keeping them in tip-top shape.
If mom's never had an air purifier, it's time to introduce her to the good life! This must-have home gadget will allow for clean, easy breathing by filtering out dust, pollen, and sources of odor.
Help mom say "buh-bye" to dry skin with this elegant night cream! It leaves parched skin silky soft after just one application! Overtime, this cream helps facilitate a smoother-looking skin tone with vitamin C and omega 6 & 9 fatty acids.
Let’s be real: we’re all pretty achy. Give the gift of stress relief with this compact massage gun! Its small size makes it super easy to travel with in a checked suitcase or carry-on for on-the-go relaxation.
Mom deserves flowers, of course, but they won't last forever. Gift her a sleek vase like this to 1. help her remember how great of a gift-giver you are, and 2. give her something to refill with fresh flowers each time!
Having moisturized, soft lips just feels good. Gift mom the feeling of confidence in her own skin with this lightweight lip balm that supplies hydrated, tinted, kissable lips throughout the day!
With warmer months on their way, maintaining hydrated hair is key for every hair type. Mom will adore this three-in-one haircare set for at-home and travel!
Silicone oven mitts are far superior to cloth ones. These KitchenAid ones are heat-resistant up to 500 degrees F for safely and comfortably handling hot pots and pans, plus the smooth material makes them a breeze to clean with a wet wipe.
Are you grabbing any Amazon Mother's Day Gifts? Are you baking her a special recipe? Let us know in the comments!
Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.
This post has been updated with additional reporting by Meredith Holser.
Moms juggle a lot, and oftentimes, taking a single day to celebrate them isn't nearly enough. She's the caretaker, the advice giver, the shoulder to cry on, and the cheerleader behind everyone in her crew! You just can't not give mom (that also includes all the sisters, girlfriends, mentors, wives, stepmoms, and grand-moms in your life) a much-neededspecial something to show her that you love her and you get her.
Here are some Mother's Day gifts that are just as fun to give as they are to get, from self care must-haves and trending fashion pieces to stylish home goods that'll make Mother's Day uniquely special this year.
Mom already knows she's a cool mom, but with this cozy cotton graphic tee, she'll actually get to show it off!
Not only is this pan aesthetically pleasing, it's practical, too! The durable nonstick coating makes cooking all kinds of foods a total breeze, plus it can even go in the oven up to temperatures of 500 degrees F.
These classy stud earrings are worthy of everyday wear, adding a touch of elegance to mom's accessory game in an instant. They are crafted to be waterproof and tarnish-proof. Score!
Mom's couch blanket def needs a nice upgrade. This affordable one is the perfect solution! It's made from a crazy-soft fleece material that delivers comfort year-round. Opt for a bright color like this yellow for the warmer months!
These exfoliating bars smell not-to-sweet, with hints of tonka bean and musk for a very well-rounded effect. Each one is loaded with superfine sanding crystals floating throughout a moisturizing, soothing soap base that'll make mom feel like sheer luxury and super smooth.
Bet you she's never felt hydration like this! The Laneige Water Bank Moisturizer provides long-lasting hydration for up to 100 hours thanks to the formulation of hyaluronic acid and squalene.
This convenient jewelry box is the gift for moms on the go. Its compact size makes it super travel-friendly, slipping into a backpack or purse with ease. There are spaces for everything from necklaces and bracelets to rings and earrings, and mom can customize the layout to her liking since the dividers are removable!
For the mom that always welcomes you home with snacks, this sleek chip and dip serving bowl will compliment her kitchen with a limited color palette and streamlined design, so you can both get some dip on your chips with ease!
Shoppable at 20% off for a limited-time Mother's Say sale, the Birthdate Pendant is totally customizable, as it's based on any birthday day and month. This sweet astrological homage to mom's birthday (or any other significant date) is laid into either a 14K gold plated or sterling silver pendant that she can flaunt every single day!
Let's hear it for zero waste! This 2-piece set of baking mats is the ultimate sustainable, reusable alternative to parchment paper. Made from silicone, the mats are 100% dishwasher-friendly, BPA-free, and food- and oven-safe... plus, they have cute little illustrations for maximum enjoyment in the kitchen.
These wines taste just as sweet as mom is herself! The 2-pack of 100% organically-farmed Chardonnay is packed with notes of Meyer lemon citrus, quince, and jasmine flowers.
Magnolia Bakery is so tasty, so any mama with a sweet tooth will adore a treat-filled gift like this one! This 6-pack of sweets arrives fresh and ready to eat. A vanilla cupcake base is topped with hand-piped vanilla buttercream in the shape of a flower, so who really needs a real bouquet?!
Time for a touch-up? This 5-in-1 portable makeup stack is the perfect size for slotting into a purse or glove box so mom can keep her freshest face on all day! It comes complete with a cream concealer, lip and cheek color, powder bronzer, powder highlighter, and a shine-control powder for those mid-day makeup breaks.
Aprons and smocks are made to get dirty, but you might as well gift mom one that's cute, too! This flowery pick from Hedley & Bennett x Rifle Paper Co. features all sorts of blooms to match the tone of this year's armer months. It slides on with a comfy cross-back design that keeps slips conveniently at bay in between all of mom's fun cooking and baking projects!
Self-care should feel like a total treat, and this body wash from Salt & Stone ensures a pleasurable experience with each use with notes of black rose and oud. The glass bottle and firm pump really elevates this gift from your run-of-the-mill body washes!
This playful necklace costs under $50, making it a wonderful (and nicely personalized) affordable Mother's Day gift. Gift mom her own initial, or even give her yours as a reminder of the amazing child you are.
Get mom into all things trendy with some cute sneakers! If the viral Adidas Sambas aren't supportive enough for her step, these cushiony-soft green kicks from SeaVees are equally trendy with a deep green colorway and heightened heel space for added comfort.
Gifting mom this adorable case alongside a colorful pair of sunnies is the perfect way to help her kick off summertime. The fruity theme is too fun to ignore, she'll be carrying it with her everywhere she goes!
This "intensely nourishing" lip balm comes in 13 different shades that deposit a deliciously sheer sheen of color to the lips that looks stunning alone or on top of lipstick. And the best part? A tube is only $10.
Satisfy her cravings for both salty and sweet with this super snacky gift box filled with chocolates, salted maple crackers, raspberry jam, and a delicious mix of Cabot Creamery cheeses! With this gift, mom scores a cheese knife and a cutting board, too, for all future cheese board sharing.
This delicate necklace design can be representative of you and your mom's special bond, or it can simply serve as an adorable everyday piece for her collection! You can snag it either in sterling silver or a 14K gold fill material, so no mom's metal preference is left out.
For the mom who's always behind the camera (AKA all of us), this Polaroid camera delivers instant prints of her fave memories, places, and people. It'll give her a nice dose of nostalgia, too!
The light white lily scent of this perfume is perfect for spring and summertime, but better yet, it'll make mom think of you every single time she spritzes it on.
This versatile everyday sling bag helps her keep her essentials in check with this convenient pockets, a comfy strap, and a cozy mesh material that ensures breathability in each and every wear.
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Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.
This article has been updated with additional reporting by Meredith Holser.
