Can One Lipstick Really Look Good on Every Woman? We Investigate

BeautyRiot Diva

Yesterday my co-worker Jane walked in wearing the most divine shade of red lipstick. It was the color of a fire engine -- bold and definitely eye catching. Needless to say, I wanted to borrow it asap. Bad idea.

Related Link: The Best Lipstick for Your Skin Tone

That gorgeous red on Jane made me look like a ghost, and I swiped off the disastrous lipstick immediately. It did make me think though: how can one lipstick shade look so different from woman to woman? And is there really a "universally flattering" lip color? I think this calls for an experiment.

Related Link: The Best Red Lipstick for You

So I gathered up my girls and tried the same lipstick on four of them. And not just red, but also pink, plum, and coral. Will there be a shade that fits all four? Click here to find out, or scroll down to see the first shade.


Mandy, Fair Skin

Lipstick: Too Faced in "Drop Dead Red"

Mandy says: "This is good if I was going for a bold shade. I like how it's not as seductive as the bright red, but not as safe as the coral. It's not an everyday look, but it's also not inappropriate at all."

The expert says: "This shade is almost too dark and deep for Mandy. The color looks good, but it almost minimizes her beautiful lips. I would go one shade lighter if you're looking for that bold lip," says Miami-based makeup artist, Marissa Nemes.



Steph, Asian Skin

Lipstick: Too Faced in "Drop Dead Red"

Steph says: "This color makes me look more mature, like in a matronly way. It's also not as brightening for my face, unlike the bright red shade. If it was more of a berry hue, I think it would look better with my skin tone."

The expert says: "This color works well with her skin tone, but I like the brighter red on Steph. This shade is more safe/business-y, while the brighter red seemed more fun," says Nemes.




Devran, Olive Skin

Lipstick: Too Faced in "Drop Dead Red"

Devran says: "This is my favorite. I normally stay away from reds, but this complements my hair and skin tone. I would definitely wear this one, especially for a nighttime event."

The expert says: "This shade looks brilliant on her lips. The color is like a ruby. It really looks beautiful, and balances out her skin tone," says Nemes.






Rahel, African American Skin

Lipstick: Too Faced in "Drop Dead Red"

Rahel says: "This really ages me. I look old. I'm definitely sticking with the bright red shade."

The expert says: "We're getting closer to the right shade for Rahel. This is on the right path since it's a darker color, but I also think it makes her look older. This has a little too much blue. Instead, I would recommend the Ruby Slipper, $5.95, or Paint the Town Red from CoverGirl's Queen Collection, $5.95," says Nemes.

Final score for the dark red: 2 yesses, 2 nos.


Click here to see how pink, coral, and bright red shades looked with these skin tones.

More on BeautyRiot.com:

What Your Makeup Says About You
Your Lip Shade Personality
When To Trash Your Makeup


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