When it comes to pulling off a bold red lipstick on your wedding day, there’s more to consider than just slapping on a bright shade. As a seasoned makeup artist with over a decade of experience, I’ve learned that finding the right hue and technique can make all the difference. The classic red lip is a timeless choice, but it’s not one-size-fits-all. It takes some experimentation to find ‘The One’ that complements your skin tone and personal style.
Some brides like to play it safe by sticking with their everyday look, while others opt for a more stylized makeup look that adds an extra touch of glamour. For those who dare to be bold, I’ve got the inside scoop on what makes a red lip truly unforgettable.
While some may worry about bleeding or transfer, the right technique and products can ensure your lipstick stays put all day long.
But before we dive into the tips and tricks, let’s start with the basics: determining what shade of red is right for you. With my 10 tried-and-true favorite red lipsticks for brides that will last all day, you’ll be well on your way to rocking a bold lip that’s sure to make a statement.
How to determine what shade of lipstick to go with?
As brides prepare to tie the knot, selecting the perfect shade of red lipstick can be a daunting task. While it may seem like one red hue suits all, discovering the right tone for your skin tone is crucial. To ensure a flawless finish, it’s essential to understand that each product has its own unique undertones – cool and warm. The best way to find the ideal match is by trying it on before making a purchase.
When it comes to fair skin with pink or cool undertones, look no further than blue-based red lipsticks. On the other hand, olive-skinned beauties with warm undertones will benefit from orange-toned reds. For those struggling to determine their skin’s undertone, the inside of your wrist can serve as a reliable indicator. However, if you’re still unsure, don’t hesitate to seek guidance – after all, a little help goes a long way in achieving that perfect pout.
10 Long-lasting Lipsticks for Brides
Make Up For Ever, Artist Rouge Mat
Make Up For Ever’s Artist Rouge Mat boasts a highly pigmented formula that glides on effortlessly. The brand confidently claims this lip color will last an impressive ten hours, and after trying it out, I can attest to its longevity. This versatile product comes in a staggering 21 shades, with Hot Red being my personal favorite. When paired with the Aqua Lip Liner in 8c, you’ll get a look that’s not only long-lasting but also waterproof and non-transferable.
The retail price for this formula is €24, making it a worthwhile investment for anyone looking to elevate their makeup routine. If you’re interested in purchasing Artist Rouge Mat, you can find it online.
MAC, Lip Duo
MAC has cleverly packaged its Lip Duos, simplifying the process of selecting a matching lip pencil to pair with your lipstick. The collection features two standout shades: Ruby Roo, a bold matte blue-red hue that perfectly complements the recommended Ruby Roo lip pencil, and Russian Red, an intense bluish-red shade that pairs beautifully with the ‘Follow Your Heart’ pencil. With a retail price of €37.50, these duos are available to purchase online.
Rimmel, Lasting Finish
Rimmel’s Lasting Finish by Kate Moss boasts an impressive eight hours of high-intensity color wear, with Shade No.1 delivering a rich, deep scarlet hue. This shade boasts a smooth, matte finish that glides onto the lips without drying them out. Best of all, it comes at a reasonable price point, with a retail cost of just €7.49. For those interested in trying this lip color for themselves, it’s available to purchase online.
The Balm, Meet Matt(e) Hughes
Meet Matte(e) Hughes by The Balm is a liquid lipstick that boasts effortless application with its smooth, gliding formula. Unlike some matte finishes that can leave lips feeling tight and dry, this product provides a comfortable wear experience. For a pop of color, try the bold Devoted shade or the deep Loyal tone for a stunning red lip look. The added bonus is the delightful scent of vanilla and mint, which will likely win over even the most discerning noses. With a retail price of €16.
95, this product offers excellent value for those seeking a high-quality, easy-to-use lipstick.
Charlotte Tilbury, Matte Revolution Lipstick
Matte Revolution Lipstick is a personal favorite, and when I’m seeking vintage Hollywood flair, Red Carpet Red is my go-to. The packaging is luxurious, but it’s the product itself that truly impresses – a clever blend of matte finish and plumping, hydrating ingredients. To take my look to new heights, I pair this lipstick with the Hollywood Honey liner in a rich, caramel-inspired hue with deep red undertones, achieving a sophisticated, glamorous effect.
The result is nothing short of show-stopping.
Yves Saint Laurent, Rouge Pur Couture The Mats
YSL’s Rouge Pur Couture The Mats collection is a sultry array of shades that has won me over, particularly the stunning Rouge Tatouage no. 219. This lipstick boasts an impressive six hours of wear without drying or cracking, making it easy to apply and reapply throughout the day. What’s more, the luxe gold case serves as a convenient mirror for quick touch-ups on-the-go. At €33.00, this luxurious product is well worth the investment.
If you’re interested in purchasing, simply click here to buy online.
Nars, Semi-Matte Lipstick
Nars’ Semi-Matte in Heat Wave is a vibrant orange-red shade that complements dark skin tones beautifully. For an enhanced look, combine it with the Velvet Matte Pencil in Red Square – a jumbo crayon that quickly intensifies lip colour and helps the lipstick stay radiant throughout the night. At €27, this combination offers great value for those looking to make a bold statement.
Tom Ford, Lip Colour Matte
Tom Ford’s Lip Colour Matte boasts a sumptuous, velvet matte finish, offering two stunning shades in Ruby Rush – a cool red hue – and Flame, an inviting orange-red tone. These lipsticks are designed to effortlessly glide onto the lips, boasting exceptional pigmentation and a long-lasting formula that stays put throughout the day.
For those seeking a luxurious, high-end option worthy of special occasions like weddings, Tom Ford’s Lip Colour Matte is an excellent choice, retailing at €49 and available for online purchase.
Chanel, Rouge Allure
For those looking to make a statement on their special day and beyond, Chanel’s Rouge Allure lipstick is an exceptional choice. Unlike the current trend of super matte lipsticks, this collection of bold red shades delivers a radiant, moisturized finish that’s perfect for beginners seeking a classic look. With a retail price of €35, it’s an investment that will pay off long after the wedding has passed. For those interested in making a purchase, you can find this luxury treat online.
Chantecaille Lipstick
Chantecaille’s luxurious lipstick offering is a hidden gem among beauty aficionados. The brand’s rich, intense pigments and nourishing formulas make it a standout choice for special occasions like weddings. With an impressive range of gorgeous red shades to choose from – including the stunning Holyhock and Poppy hues – this lipstick is not only a great option for your big day but also one that you might find yourself reaching for again and again afterwards. At €33.
55, it’s an investment worth considering, especially when you can buy it online.
Expert Tips for Wearing Red Lipstick on your Wedding Day
Before applying any makeup, take the time to exfoliate your lips by removing any dry skin with Lush’s Bubblegum Lip Scrub. This will give you a smooth canvas to work with. Once you’ve polished up your pucker, apply a layer of lip balm (Dr PawPaw is a great option) to soften and smooth out any lines on your lips. Be sure to remove the balm before applying your lipstick. For an added boost, use a lip primer like MAC Prep + Prime Lip or Anastasia Lip Primer to help your color stay in place all day.
When it comes to choosing a lipliner, make sure it matches the shade of your lipstick and apply it over the entire lip. To get the perfect shape, draw on your hand first to soften the wax and heat it up. For a long-lasting look, opt for matte lipsticks instead of high-shine formulas. A lip brush is essential for achieving that perfect pout, so be sure to use one when applying your lipstick.
Apply a second coat to add depth to your lips, then blot the inside of your mouth to remove any excess product and prevent staining on your teeth. Finally, clean up any stray product around the edges of your lips with a pencil corrector or concealer, and finish off by dusting with translucent powder for added longevity.
