How do I choose the best red lipstick for my skin tone?

“Generally, we find that blue-toned reds work best on skin with cooler undertones, while warmer skin can get away with most shades of red, from orange hues to intense wine tones,” explains Emolyne Ramlov, founder of Emolyne Beauty.

That said, Emolyne also points out that “skin tone differs so immensely from person to person (and through the seasons), and who are we to say if you can or can’t wear a shade that you love? That’s why we like to say, ‘Your shade, your rules’. Confidence is the key to looking striking in any shade.”

How to make red lipstick last

Red lipstick looks great freshly applied, but a few hours in (or after a couple of drinks), it can start to fade or smudge – and well, look pretty messy. The trick to making it really last is all in the prep – and a little strategic layering. First things first, prep your lips before applying red lippy. Red lipsticks are often matte – especially if you’re going for a bold ‘Old Hollywood’ glam look, so gently buffing away any dry skin with a lip scrub or a warm damp flannel is pretty essential. After that, be sure to add a thin layer or balm to keep them nice and hydrated, and give it a little blot with a tissue.

Another great trick I learnt along the way is to use setting powder after applying your lipstick. Grab your fave translucent powder and dab a light amount on the lips with a fluffy brush to set the colour, and keep your lipstick in place.