Stuck using the same pink lip gloss you've been wearing for years? Consider taking a new beauty cue from New York and London's Fashion Weeks and completely change your look with a bold lipstick. While the dark shades of aubergine and merlot spotted on runways might skew too goth for everyday rotation, there are ways to make this trend work for you.
If you want to make a statement:
For a bold, intense look that lasts, start by outlining your lips with a waterproof liner. When applying the liner, smile but keep your lips closed. (This admittedly awkward technique helps stretch out the natural lines of your mouth for more even coverage.) Fill in the rest of your lips with the liner to create a stay-put base before adding your preferred lip colour.
If you'd rather play it safe:
For a toned-down look that's not too opaque, mix your lip shade with a clear balm to diffuse the colour. Then, dab it onto your lips using your ring finger for a stain-like effect. And one more word to the wise: Keep the rest of your makeup fairly simple. Let your lips do the talking.
For more runway inspiration, check out the looks below:
Get the look: Maybelline New York Color Sensational Creamy Mattes in Touch of Spice, $10.
Credit, Maybelline New York.Get the look: Nars Velvet Matte Lip Pencil in Train Bleu, $30. Nars Audacious Lipstick in Liv, $39.
Get the look: Maybelline New York Color Sensational Vivid Matte Liquid in Berry Boost, $13.
Credit, Maybelline New York.Get the look: M.A.C Lip Pencil in Chestnut, $20. M.A.C Retro Matte Liquid Lipcolour in High Drama, $24.
Credit, Luca Cannonier.Get the look: M.A.C Lipmix in Blue, Burgundy and Magenta (all three colours mixed), $18 each. M.A.C Chromaline in Rich Purple, $24.
Credit, Luca Cannonier.Related:
This app will change the way you shop for lipstick
How to master your evening makeup in 5 minutes flat
10 ways to rock bold earrings — without the tacky factor
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