Tips for wearing bright lipstick at any age

And how to do the rest of your makeup to match

marie claire Contributor / August 22 2016

Can any woman, any age, pull off a statement lip? “Yes, 100 per cent – as long as it’s matte, which makes lips look bigger, wider and fuller,” explains celebrity makeup artist Charlotte Tilbury. Here she shares her expert tips for wearing bright lipstick, and how to do the rest of your makeup to complement the bold look.

1

The lips

Carefully line the 
lips with a pencil 
that perfectly matches your lipstick (this is key!). Then, “if the lipstick is 
a strong, dark shade,
 use a lip brush to paint
 on colour”, advises Tilbury. Chalky matte lipsticks are unflattering, so look for one with a velvety cream texture. Try Maybelline New York Color Sensational Creamy Mattes in Mesmerizing Magenta with Chanel Le Crayon Lèvres in Fuchsia.

AGELESS TIP: If you’re hesitant, “a rose shade gives a modern finish 
and the impression you’re adventurous with colour without looking too made up or heavy”, says Tilbury.

2

The eyes

“The rule of thumb is if you do a lip, you wouldn’t do as much on the eyes, but sometimes you have a fabulous red carpet moment, where I say go for the lot,” says Tilbury. To define eyes, try Rimmel London ScandalEyes Thick & Thin Eyeliner.

AGELESS TIP: To subtly
 line eyes without going overboard, dot black eyeliner between lashes. Finish with mascara and polished brows, always.

3

The cheeks

Blush is imperative, but leave it to last “so you can look in the mirror and see how much colour you’ve already put onto your face”, suggests Tilbury. “Then you can apply the right amount without overdoing it.” Try Napoleon Perdis Dreamy Duchess Blush Cream.

For more beauty advice from marie claire, check out marieclaire.com.au

Main image credit: Getty

A beauty editor and vitamin C fanatic who has worked across a range of print and digital publications, including Stellar, marie claire, Gritty Pretty and Badlands Journal.