Stage A Lipstick Revolution

Jessica Alba knows how to work a bold lip. Photo: Getty Images

Red is timeless, and orange is the It-girl favourite – but fuchsia strikes the perfect balance between classic and cool.

Jane Richardson, international lead make-up stylist for Nars swears any woman can become a lipstick queen in just three days: "The first day you wear bright lipstick, you will be checking yourself in windows and asking friends what they think; [on day two] you’re testing the actual product (because you were too self-conscious yesterday to pay attention to feel and longevity); and on the third day you’ll wake up and think you look pale and washed out without your bold lipstick."

Richardson’s other lip tips:

1. Practice makes perfect (and lipstick washes off), so experiment with shades and finishes.
2. When applying lipstick, raise your chin and look down into the mirror, then slightly part your lips. "Don’t make weird shapes with your mouth – keep your lips as relaxed as possible," advises Richardson.
3. Bear in mind that, like brows, lips can be asymmetrical, so pay close attention to your natural shape and stay focused on the task at hand.

All the make-up in the world will do nothing without a dose of confidence.

"So many women will put on a bright lipstick and their first instinct is to wipe it off and giggle," says Richardson.

"Most of us don’t want to be seen – except for the younger generation, who love it – but there’s no point hiding because make-up is powerful and you will be noticed."

Cheers to that!

The lip kit:
1 TOO FACED Melted Metal Lipstick in Dream House, $30.
2 SMASHBOX Lipstick in Shock Me Pink, $29.
3 CHANEL Rouge Coco in Ina, $52.
4 DIOR Addict Lipstick in Be Dior, $52.
5 LANCÔME L’Absolu Rouge in 342, $50.
6 NARS Audacious Lipstick in Grace, $47.