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How To Wear The Hottest Trend From The Met Gala: Dark Lipstick

In case you missed it: dark lips was a massive trend at the Met Gala on Monday.

While the look that Taylor Swift and Katy Perry sported on the red carpet was definitely not for the faint-hearted, it's certainly one that can be recreated from the comfort of your own home.

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We spoke to make-up artist Sonia Allen, who gave us her tips on how to master the Met Gala beauty look for your next night out.

Who can wear the look?

When it comes to a dark bold lip Sonia says that anyone can wear it - just make sure you follow these few rules first.

"If you are someone who wears makeup everyday and are comfortable teaming a dark lip with an eye then great," she says.

"Just make sure the colours you choose for your eyeshadows and blush are complimentary to the lip colour (and aren’t competing against it)."

If you prefer the no-make-up look, you can still give this new trend a whirl, just focus on getting your skin in tip-top condition and leave the rest of your make-up very simple.

Here's six tips on nailing the dark lipstick look.
Here's six tips on nailing the dark lipstick look.

6 tips for nailing the look

Get your lips in good condition

According to Sonia, you can’t do a statement lip if you're lips aren’t in great condition. Start by using a lip scrub like the Vigour Skin Organic Sugar Polish to gently get rid of any flaky dead skin then follow with a moisturising balm (preferably non-petroleum based). Make sure you massage the balm into the skin and wipe any excess away.

To maintain the health of your lips you can also use your eye cream on your lips as a daily treatment. The Avene Soothing Eye Contour Cream is a good non-scented option or you might like to try the Transformulas Marine Miracle EyeZone.

Decide on the finish you want

Decide if you want a matte bold finish like the MAC Matte Instigator or a more sheer colour option like the Bobbi Borwn Sheer Lip Colour in Black Plum .

If you're after a hint of sparkle, the Kat Von D Studded Kiss Lipstick in Mercy will give your look an added element of shine.

Kat Von D Studded Kiss Lipstick in Mercy - $21
Kat Von D Studded Kiss Lipstick in Mercy - $21



Now choose a lipliner

Once you have chosen your lipstick, match it to a lipliner. You can't do a bold berry lip without first lining the lips as darker colours are less forgiving when it comes to application. When working with a lipliner, make sure it is sharpened to a fine point as this will make precision easier for you. Trace around the outline of your lips and then shade in the entire lips. You might find it easier to hold the pencil on the side when filling in the lips.

Shading in the entire lips ensures you won’t be left with a 90s outline as the day/evening progresses. It also holds your lipstick for longer and prevents bleeding.

Have a good lip brush at the ready

An angled brush like the Real Techniques 202 Angled Liner Brush works a treat on getting the pencil outline smooth and precise, while a flexible brush like the Artiste Retractable Lip Brush #46 brush will help you apply the lipstick.

A retractable brush is a good option because you can safely take it in your bag for touch ups throughout the day. However you must be sure to regularly sanitise and wash the lip brush to avoid bacteria build up. When using a lip brush to apply lipstick, glide the brush over the lipstick bullet several times but only on one side of the brush. Use the side with the lipstick to apply in sweeping motions and the clean side to ensure even distribution of colour.

Revlon Super Lustrous Lipstick - $22.95
Revlon Super Lustrous Lipstick - $22.95
Chalotte Tilbury Luminous Modern-Matte Lipstick in Glastonberry
Chalotte Tilbury Luminous Modern-Matte Lipstick in Glastonberry

Fix your mistakes

If you have made any mistakes and gone outside the lines, use some foundation or tinted moisturiser or concealer on a cotton bud and wipe the excess away. Ensure the skin around the mouth is not stained with colour.

Illuminate your cupids's bow

You may want to experiment with highlighting the cupid’s bow using either a liquid illuminator like the Nars Illuminator in Copacabana or powder highlighter like the Hourglalss Ambient Powder in Luminous Light.

Try adding a dab of gloss to the centre of the lips like the Gilded Cage Charisma Lipgloss in Aurora to make your lips look just as full as Angelina Jolie's.