TIPSFORTRYING THEBERRY-LIP TREND
Changing to a darker lip colour for autumn is expected, but this season’s nearly noir berry lipsticks take “going to the dark side” to the next level. Makeup artist Grace Lee shows us how deeper shades can look flattering and modern.
This fall, the new look in lipstick is all about drama, with deeper-thandeep berry hues and, in some cases, jet black. Models from such influential fashion brands as Dior and Marc Jacobs strutted down the Fall 2016 catwalks wearing goth-inspired black lips while social media queen Kylie Jenner launched a black liquid matte lipstick called Dead of Knight, which sold out in minutes. High fashion and niche celeb beauty brands aren’t the only ones going dark, either; when Covergirl launched 11 lipsticks with Katy Perry earlier this year, the shade that got the most buzz was Perry Panther, a demi-matte black.
Scared to try a full-on black lip? Just interpret the trend in your own way, says Grace Lee, Maybelline New York’s lead makeup artist in Canada. “Fashion is a way to inspire people,” she says. “You can be inspired by runway shows and by celebrities, but you don’t have to take things literally.”
Start with the red spectrum—a classic. “Red looks good on everyone,” says Lee. She suggests choosing a lipstick with a sheer finish or, if you’re already comfortable with that, a more opaque formula. And if you’re feeling brave, go for a deeper red, plum or blackberry hue. “It’s like getting accustomed to red wine. You start with a Pinot and work your way up to a Merlot— something a little more rich.”
Remember that when you go bold with lip colour, whether it’s crimson, wine or black currant, all eyes will be on your pucker, so minimize your other makeup to avoid looking costumey or goth. “Make sure your skin looks fresh, your eyebrows are groomed and you have a bit of mascara—that’s it,” says Lee. For regular wear, she advises using your finger for a stain application. “When you apply lipstick directly from the brush or tube, you don’t have as much control,” she explains. Pressing the colour into your lip with your fingertip also helps set the pigment, giving you a more natural look and boosting your lippy’s staying power.