Choosing Lipstick Color

Work with What You Have

• The best way to find a lip color that will enhance your natural skin tone and lip color is to wear a lipstick that is only a shade or two lighter or darker than your natural lip color. You can do this by applying lipstick shades to only one half of your lips, either your top lip or your bottom. Then examine the way the color looks in the mirror to determine whether it is just a few shades off from your natural color. You could also place the lip color on the skin just above or below your lips to see how well it blends in with your lips, just remember that skin color is a completely different shade than lip color, so it may appear lighter on your skin than it would on your lips.

Picking the Perfect Red

• Many people are intimidated by red lip colors because they're afraid they'll pick one that is too bright or outlandish. They're also afraid that the deep red color may make their skin look pale in comparison. The best way to choose an appropriate shade of red is to pick one with undertones that are complementary to your skin tone. As a general rule, individuals with lighter skin or skin with a pink or reddish tint should choose a cherry red, according to Julyne Derrick, a beauty guide for About.com. Derrick also believes that those with olive skin should choose a fire engine red and those with darker skin tones should opt for deeper reds.

Evaluating Your Lifestyle

• Regardless of how well a lip color can complement one's skin tone and natural lip color, it can look out of place if not worn in the right environments. Even the perfect shade of red can look out of place at a board meeting, and a natural lip color can bring an unwanted understated look at a formal event. Take into consideration the formality of an event, your wardrobe, hairstyle and other makeup before choosing any lip color, whether it's meant to blend in naturally or stand out.