Lip color

KaleidoscopeEyes1056

Ok, so I'm pretty oblivious when it comes to most social norms so I thought I could turn to MFP's fashionistas for this one.

I LOVE red lip color, and I pull it off really well. But, I'm not sure when it is appropriate to wear. I've been told that more natural colors like pinks, browns, and nudes are more acceptable for professional environments. But what about the not-so-natural colors like red and mauve?

I would like to believe that I can wear red or mauve every day and it would be totally cool. But would that be too "dressy" or "flashy" just to wear to class, or the store, or other places like that? Thanks!

Edited because I forgot a question mark and it make my sentence awkward. No awkward sentences, now!

tcunbeliever

I think red is awesome for the office, just tone it down by not putting it on too thick, or using something that is naturally thinner like a lip gloss rather than a lip stick. I like layering colors, like a bright red lip stick with a pale pink lip gloss - it tones the red down a bit and adds an extra dimension to the look. Plus then one lip stick can make a bunch of different colors becasue you can use different lip glosses and get a totally different look, and you get to use the lip stick and lip gloss alone too for more flexibility.

kelseyhere

I agree that red is fine for the office as long as you keep accessories to a minimum. If you pile on the accessories and have a fancy hair-do and a loud outfit, and red lipstick that might look like you are trying to hard. But a simple outfit with classic accessories (maybe a pearl necklace or a ring) can really be taken to the next level with a nice pop of color.

LorinaLynn

I don't think a red lip is ever wrong. Especially on a fair-skinned brunette. I might have a little bias, though.

There's so many different shades of red, from a more muted brick red to fire-engine. Wear one that goes with (not necessarily matches) what you're wearing, and go lighter on the eyes if you're going bold on the lips.

MariaMariaM

I have used red in the office too. I have a few reds but one that is not too in your face but still gives a nice poo of color is "Fire "(I think from Tarte. I also have another one by Tarte that was part of their True Blood collection and I treat it like gold. I recently purchased one by hour glass but I think that might be a bit much for the office.

VelociMama

The general rule for makeup in the office is, "Don't overplay your makeup." Generally, you can get away with a slightly bold color on the eyes OR the lips, but not both at the same time. I have a dark soft red that looks nice on me. I usually do a light blush and good foundation with it and go. If I go out at night, I can do the same color and add some eye makeup to make it more bold.