Red lips are hot this season, and are one of spring’s “must-have” looks. Typically a fashion barometer for spring, the Oscar’s “Red Carpet” fashion show was not a disappointment as everyone seems to still be talking about Sandra Bullock’s red lips. Red lips are bold, striking, sexy, and can be quite glamorous if worn correctly.

Historically speaking, in a struggling economy, women have traditionally purchased lipsticks in place of a new outfit. During our last economic slowdown, The Wall Street Journal stated that lipstick sales at mass retailers rose 11% for 3rd quarter over the previous year. And if a woman’s budget this year is limited to lipstick purchases, than why not choose a daring, bold color like red? A red lipstick can make last year’s best outfits look like new! However, the problem with red lipstick is finding the right shade of red.

Sadly, the wrong red can detract from your look. Many will argue that Ms. Bullock’s fuschia shade, which is from the red-purple group, is not her best and that a true red would have been more in harmony with her own coloring.

A simple way to look at the different shades of red is to look at a color wheel. The picture here is a fun look at the scientific side of color. The top center is the true red pencil and just to the right of it is the orange pencil (red- yellow). To the left of the true red pencil are the pink and purple pencils, also known as the red-purple group. Now study the reds within your wardrobe. Do you see more burgundy (red-purple) or more brick red (red-yellow) in your closet? Perhaps your favorite red is a true red. These different shades of red within your own wardrobe are good indications of which red will be more flattering on your lips.

Finding Your Best Red

As with all items in your wardrobe, if that burgundy or brick red in your closet is not being worn, than you have a pretty good indication it is the wrong red for you! Your subconscious is at work when it comes to selecting your best colors. Listen to your own voice. But be daring! Be bold! Be one of the first in your circle of friends to try a hot, new red lipstick for spring.

Try our ColorFit demo to discover your best red (Warm v. Cool v. Neutral) today!