Written by: Anindita Thakur

What color lipstick to wear with a red dress?: The secret to slay

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A red dress? A statement piece, A power move, a head-turner, a guaranteed showstopper indeed! But what about the lips? After all, that’s the secret tool that takes your look from stunning to absolutely unforgettable.

So, what should you opt for? Do you go bold with more red, or keep it chill with something more neutral? I’ve got you covered. From classic Hollywood glamour to modern chic-learn what color lipstick to wear with a red dress.

Beautiful woman in red dress and text in text in text box, "What color lipstick to wear with a red dress?"
What color lipstick to wear with a red dress?

What color lipstick to wear with a red dress?

Makeup shopping should be fun, and choosing lipstick to go with your red dress is the cherry on top of a show-stopping outfit.  But with so many shades available, the question arises: what lipstick colors actually work with red? The great news is, the possibilities are broader than you might think!  There aren’t strict limits, and ultimately, the best color is the one that makes you feel confident and beautiful. From classic neutrals to daring darks and even shades of red, there’s a perfect lipstick out there for every red dress and every personal style. However, some shades, like those with strong orange undertones, might clash. So, explore your options to create a look you love.!

Neutral lipsticks: Your perfect partner for a red dress

Want a classic, effortless look with your red dress? Pair it with a neutral lipstick for a polished and appropriate look (think peaches, beiges, and soft browns). It’s the definition of understated elegance or just a timeless vibe. They subtly enhance your natural lip shape and won’t compete with the boldness of your red dress. This lets you play up other features, like a dramatic eye look, without your makeup becoming overwhelming. Plus, a neutral lip draws attention to your accessories, like a stunning necklace. Bonus: Neutral lipsticks are perfect for professional settings.

Also Read: What color lipstick goes best with gray hair?

Unleash your inner diva: Dark lipsticks and red dresses

burnt orange lipstick, purple liptick, red table, beautiful woman in red dress and purple lipstick.
Dark lipsticks with red dresses

Feeling fierce? A red dress and a dark lipstick are a match made in style heaven. Dark shades instantly command attention and add a touch of drama. Think beyond the usual reds – we’re talking deep purples, rich blues, burnt orange or classic black! These unexpected hues can create a truly unique and unforgettable look.

Just remember a little balance. If you’re going bold with your lips, maybe tone down the eye makeup a bit to avoid an overwhelming effect. Also, double-check that your chosen dark shade complements your specific shade of red dress. Burnt orange, for example, can look amazing with some reds but clash with others.

Don’t be afraid to play with textures too! A black lipstick with a touch of glitter gloss adds a touch of celestial sparkle. Or try lining your lips with one color and filling them in with another for a custom, multi-dimensional look.

Red on red: The timeless classic

A red dress and red lipstick? A truly iconic combination. It’s a look that’s always in style.  Matching your lipstick to your dress creates a cohesive, head-to-toe statement, drawing the eye to your entire ensemble. While a neutral lip lets you highlight accessories, red-on-red is all about confident, unapologetic glamour.

But “red” is anything but basic! The world of red lipstick is vast and exciting. From deep crimsons and wines to vibrant scarlets and corals, the possibilities are endless. Think about the specific shade of your dress. Is it a warm, orangey-red or a cool, blue-toned red?  Matching the undertones of your lipstick to your dress is key.

Now, about pinks…do they count as red? It’s a matter of interpretation, but generally, when pairing with a red dress, it’s best to avoid pinks that are too bright or clash. Hot pink, in particular, can often clash. However, a soft, muted pink can sometimes work, adding a touch of subtle sweetness without overpowering the red.

Feeling overwhelmed by all the choices? Here’s a simple tip: aim for sister shades, not twins. Your lipstick doesn’t have to be an exact match to your dress, but it should be in the same color family. If your dress is a warm red, choose a lipstick with warm undertones.  The closer the shades, the more polished and put-together your look will be. So go ahead, embrace the power of red on red!

How to choose the right color lipstick for a red dress?

5 different lipstick shades
Lipstick shades

There’s no single “right” answer when it comes to lipstick, infact an all-over makeup for a red dress. Makeup is all about self-expression and finding the right look makes you feel amazing!  So, while there are some classic pairings, the ultimate decision is yours.

Think about the vibe you’re going for. Want a professional, polished look? A nude lipstick is a great choice. Feeling creative and bold? Don’t be afraid to experiment with unconventional colors like deep purples or blues. Love a timeless, glamorous style? A classic red lipstick is always a winner.

Ultimately, the best lipstick for your red dress is the one that makes you feel confident and ready to take on the world. When you find that perfect shade that gives you that extra boost, you’ll know it. So, play around, have fun, and rock that red dress with your perfect lipstick match!

Final Word

From classic red-on-red to daring dark hues and effortlessly chic neutrals, the perfect lipstick for your red dress is out there waiting to be discovered. The most important thing? Confidence! Rock whatever shade makes you feel your absolute best. Experiment, play, and most importantly, have fun! Because ultimately, the best accessory to any red dress (and lipstick) is a smile. Now go out there and shine!

Anindita Thakur
Anindita Thakur

Anindita Thakur is a beauty writer covering perfume, cosmetics, hair care, and skin care. She holds a B.A. Hons in English, M.A. in English, M.A. in History, and a Certificate in Journalism and Mass Communication from Calcutta University. With robust credentials in writing and communications, Ms. Thakur provides engaging articles on beauty trends and tips. Her goal is to educate and inspire audiences on the best products and practices for skin, hair, makeup, and fragrance.

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