You're Doing It Wrong: Wearing Dark Lip Colors

How to wear a deep lip shade

By Diana Nguyen Jan 13, 2016 12:53 AMTags
Laverne CoxMichael Kovac/Getty Images for Moet & Chandon

If celebs like Laverne Cox or Jennifer Lopez are any indication, dark-hued lips are going to be big this season.

However, wearing a deep shade isn't as easy as just swiping it on. Application can be messy, colors may not match with your skin tone and some may unevenly fade as you wear it. That said, don't be scared of a good berry or brown lip either!

While recreating Laverne's Golden Globes look (created by makeup artist Lady Deja Davenport) for our GlamSnap beauty tutorials, beauty pro Karen Gonzalez shared the correct way to wear an intense color.

Glossy vs. Matte: It's the great debate discussed among all lip-color lovers. Well, now, the verdict is in…for dark lips, at least. Karen insisted on using matte shades for practical reasons. While The Orange Is the New Black star went glossy, many of us don't have glam squads to regularly touch us up. "Plus, glossy is going to spread and it's going to be a mess," warned Karen.

Opt for a Liquid Lipstick: "When using a color like Lipland Liquid Lipstick in Montenegro (a deep berry), you don't need a lip pencil," recommend by makeup maven. The more no-fuss, the better!

 

Kailey Strachan for E!

Prep Your Lips: Many dark shades can stain lips. Not to mention, poor-quality formulas won't glide on well to uneven surfaces. Don't fret. " Just brush on pressed powder on the lips to create a base for your lip color," advised Karen. "It'll also give it that velvet finish and balance out any discoloration around the mouth."

Consider Your Skin Tone: Not all dark shades are created equal. "Make sure you check out the undertones of a shade—some are more berry, some are redder, some are more brown," said Karen. It's important you choose one that's intense but complementary.

Create Precise Lines: Using a brush, apply concealer to clean up and define the lips and for touchups when the moment arises.