You know all those bright lipsticks you keep zipped up in your makeup bag waiting for the *perfect* occasion to wear? Well, they might need to come out to play because we’re experimenting with colour on this side, sis! Why? On 16 March, the world celebrates Lips Appreciation Day, so what better way to show your smackers some love than with a pop of colour? Here are three popular lipstick shades and how to wear them for a fresh new look.

Red Lipstick

You can never go wrong with a red lip, can you? For many years, a classic red lip has been the go-to colour to make a bold statement with makeup – it’s just such a fierce hue! It also comes in many different shades and undertones, so there is one to suit every skin tone. Once you find yours, trust me – you are never going to turn back!

My Favourite Red Lipsticks

Want to know which shades of red I wear on rotation? Here are my top five:

1. Fenty Beauty Stunna Lip Paint in Uncensored
2. MAC Retro Matte Lipstick in Ruby Woo
3. NYX Professional Makeup Matte Lipstick in Perfect Red
4. Maybelline SuperStay Matte Ink in Pioneer
5. Smashbox Always On Matte Liquid Lipstick in Bawse

Coral Lipstick

Olivier Tissot, a makeup expert at Rimmel, says that coral and orange shades are able to make our eyes stand out more. Um... yes, please! ‘It is an optical effect. Coral in the most vivid shades tends to cool down the face. As it is a very warm colour, it makes the rest of the face look dull and the eyes become more prominent as a result.’ Now you know!

Coral is perfect for spring and summertime but can be a very daring and daunting colour to pull off. But, there are ways to do it! Warm-up your complexion by using a warm-toned bronzer and a blush shade that compliments the lippie. This will help to create balance.

Best Coral Lipstick for Fair Skin

Too Faced Peach Kiss Moisture Matte Long Wear Lipstick in Peach Beach

Best Coral Lipstick for Dark Skin

NARS Audacious Lipstick in Anabella

Nude Lipstick

What’s better than a nude lip? A *glossy* nude lip! You can never go wrong with a nude hue, and it can pair with any makeup and fashion look because of its timeless versatility. Whether you’re going for a dramatic or subtle finish, a nude lip will always come to the party.

Find Your Formula

Best creamy nude: Maybelline Color Sensational Lipstick in Tantalizing Taupe

Best liquid nude: Smashbox Always On Matte Liquid Lipstick in Baddest

Best glossy nude: MAC Lipglass in Spite

Makeup available at Woolworths, Takealot, Muse Beauty, Clicks and Superbalist.