Getting Red-dy for NoD

Hello my beauties, 

I'm here today to speak to you about an issue near to my heart: red lipstick. No other look can compare to the longevity and universally flattering style (when executed correctly) of the red lip. While I prefer dramatic eyes with a more subtle lip, even I have to give it up for this classic. 

When I heard NoD was Alice in Wonderland-themed (allegedly, because I have yet to see the official Facebook event and I think I'd be invited by now because I'm very popular), I immediately thought of all the crazy makeup in Tim Burton's Alice in Wonderland. They won so many awards for makeup and costume (and rightfully so), it was unbelieveable.

Anyways, the Queen of Hearts lips are the inspiration for this post so whether you want to mimic the look or just find the best red lip for you here are my product suggestions:

P.S. I'm really bad at using GIMP and I don't have a great camera so I apologize in advance for the original photos. If someone wants to upgrade my Canon Powershot to a Rebel and teach me the ways of GIMP, I'm interested.

Beginner: Super Easy Lip Stain - e.l.f. Lip Stain in Crimson Crush ($2)

elf  Lip Stain in Crimson Crush

    Don't be intimidated by the red lip, makeup newbies! With proper guidance, the red lip can become your best friend. E.l.f. (eyes lips face) is a great brand for beginners. It's super super SUPER cheap and not bad quality for the price. I'm starting with a lip stain here because I know a lot of people who don't normally wear makeup hate the sticky or heavy feeling of lipstick or the shine of lip gloss. Lip stains are awesome because they're just like big Crayola markers for your lips and everyone who had a human childhood knows how to use a marker. Another cool part of lip stains is that it won't come off on cups or napkins or your NoD hookup's face...

Left: my natural lip, Right: elf Lip Stain in Crimson Crush

Intermediate: My Go-To Red - NYX Electra #513 ($4)

NYX  Extra Creamy Round Lipstick in Electra (513)

I love NYX cosmetics. You can find them at Target, Ulta, drugstores, Urban Outfitters, and online. Although super cheap, the quality is comparable to premium department store brands. Nyx's dupe for Russian Red (below) is called Electra, like Carmen Electra or the Electra Complex. This is my favorite red because the pigment is perfect and lasts long. It is a nice creme, and while it is not completely matte, it has no pearlescent or satin qualities.

Left: natural, Right: NYX lipstick in Electra

Expert: The Splurge - MAC's Russian Red or Ruby Woo ($16 each)

Left: Ruby Woo, Right: Russian Red

For many makeup junkies Russian Red is THE red. It is a pure unadulterated red with a slightly cooler base which makes it an even truer red than those with a warmer base (that's coral territory). Ruby Woo is a bit more of a cherrier red. Some people prefer this, and it also depends on how each looks on your skin. Ruby Woo might be the perfect red for you. Alas, I do not own either lipstick (yet) so I cannot show you any swatches. That said, there are tons on Google Image.

Bonus: Orangey Red - Maybelline Vibrant Mandarin #885 ($8)

Maybelline Color Sensational Vivids in Vibrant Mandarin

While this is not a true red, a more orangey warm based red works better for some complexions. Also, we're going to be seeing a lot more coral/orange lips come Spring 2015 (if I hear the phrase "Orange is the new red" one more time...). I did a lot of searching for a nice, flattering orangey red this past summer and this was my favorite I found in my price range.

Left: Natural, Right: Maybelline Vibrant Mandarin

Before I wrap up this post I want to leave you with a photo tutorial on how to prep and apply red lipstick. The toothbrush is being used for a lip exfoliator. Elf and Lush both sell lip exfoliating scrubs. Also you can make your own by combining brown sugar and a little veggie oil. I don't know what they're doing in the bottom right picture. I wish I could tell you what it is and explain, but I got nothing. 

Got questions? Feel free to comment below!

Kisses,
Ali