How to master the statement red lip

Julie Delahaye
December 1, 2015
Kendall Jenner, Jennifer Lawrence, and two other women with blonde hair and red lipstick.

There's no doubt that a statement red lip is a beauty classic. We take a look at how to recreate this A-lister favourite in a few simple steps…

A woman with short hair in a red dress and gold earrings stands next to a person in a blue suit.© Photo: Getty Images

Queen Letizia of Spain was the epitome of elegance with a ruby hued lipstick to complement her chic gown.

Lupita Nyong'o smiling, wearing a green shirt with a white flower, against a red background.© Photo: Getty Images

For a showstopping look, take note from Lupita Nyong'o and try a high shine dark berry lipgloss.

Taylor Swift at an event, wearing a pink dress with gold leaf designs, red lipstick, and blonde hair styled in waves.© Photo: Getty Images

If you don't have a matte lipstick but want to recreate Taylor Swift's gorgeous look, try dabbing translucent powder over a normal lipstick to get the effect.

Jennifer Lawrence in a white dress with gold floral details, posing with red lipstick.© Photo: Getty Images

Stars such as Jennifer Lawrence always make sure to choose shades that complement their skin tone. Fair skinned ladies should look for sheer, blue-based reds, while darker skin tones tend to suit rusty reds or shades with brown undertones. If you're unsure test the colour on the back of your hand and check it in natural daylight.

Selena Gomez wears a black top and white flower crown, looking directly at the camera.© Photo: Getty Images

Selena Gomez mastered two of the season's biggest trends when she chose a dark berry hued matte shade.

Scarlett Johansson in a gold dress with red lipstick, standing against a green background.© Photo: Rex

For a flawless red pout like Karlie Kloss, make sure you prep your lips and keep them smooth before applying your chosen shade. Exfoliate your lips with a homemade scrub – mix a tablespoon of brown sugar with honey, and then rub the scrub onto your lips. After one minute, wipe off with a damp washcloth and apply lip balm.

Kim Kardashian in a red dress with red lipstick, posing for a photo.© Photo: Getty Images

Try a vibrant shade that matches a red gown like Kim Kardashian for an eye-catching look.

Rosie Huntington-Whiteley in a silver dress with red lipstick, standing against a crystal backdrop.© Photo: Getty Images

Complement a bold red shade with a slicked back hairstyle inspired by Rosie Huntington-Whiteley.

Miranda Kerr in a navy off-shoulder dress with geometric patterns, wearing red lipstick and a star pendant necklace.

Want a glossy sheen finish like Miranda Kerr? Add a slick of clear lipgloss to give your pout extra shine. However, if you'd prefer a matte look, use a tissue to blot any extra colour.

Blond-haired woman with red lipstick and a cross necklace at an event.© Photo: Rex

If you're following in Lily Donaldson's footsteps and opting for a bold shade, applying your lipstick evenly will help the colour to really pop. Use a lip brush instead of applying the lipstick directly and start brushing on the colour from the centre of your mouth, blending outward.

Kendall Jenner in a red dress and red lipstick, posing for a photo.© Photo: Getty Images

Using a liner to draw the outline of your lips will stop the colour from 'bleeding' and getting smudged. To get Kendall Jenner's smooth and smudge-free look, make sure to pick a lip liner that matches your lipstick as close as possible.

Olivia Wilde in a red dress with red lipstick and gold eye makeup.© Photo: Getty Images

Turn heads with a neon-inspired shade like the one Olivia Wilde chose.

Dakota Johnson in a red dress with a silver embellished strap, smiling at the camera.© Photo: Getty Images

For a softer take on the trend try a shade with pink undertones such as the one Dakota Johnson rocked.

Alexa Chung with short hair, wearing a floral top and red lipstick.© Photo: Getty Images

If you haven't tried a statement red lip before and are unsure if you want the bold look, take a leaf out of Alexa Chung's book and try a lip stain instead of lipstick – these can create a slightly muted colour and are a great way of trying out the trend.

Emilia Clarke in a black outfit with red lipstick and a gold necklace.© Photo: Getty Images

Channel old Hollywood like Game of Thrones star Emilia Clarke by pairing a matte lip with striking winged eyeliner.

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