11 Of The Best Red Lipsticks

11 Of The Best Red Lipsticks

There’s a perfect red lipstick out there for everyone but, with so many different shades and textures on offer, finding ‘the one’ can take time. We asked a range of beauty insiders for their favourites…

NARS Powermatte Lip Pigment in Just Push Play, £23

“The liquid formula and precise applicator of this delicious currant shade makes it super easy to apply the perfect lip shape every time.” – Camilla Hewitt, Make-Up Artist, Hair Stylist & Beauty Writer

Available at NarsCosmetics.co.uk

Charlotte Tilbury Red Carpet Red, £25

“This is my ultimate favourite red lipstick. It’s cruelty-free and vegan, so it ticks those ethical boxes for me; that aside, the depth of colour is the closest I’ve ever found to a true vintage red. Plus, the creamy formula is so easy to blend and really goes the distance.” – Justine Jenkins, Make-Up Artist & Cruelty-Free Beauty Expert

Available at CharlotteTilbury.com

Laura Mercier Velour Extreme Matte Lipstick in Control, £22.50

“There are many red lipsticks I could wax lyrical about, but this really stands out for me. It’s like a twist-up eyeshadow stick, but for lips – and the rounded tip makes it so easy to use. It sculpts the thinnest of lips and leaves behind a deep wine burgundy that’s universally flattering.” – Rebecca Hull, SheerLuxe Health & Beauty Editor

Available at CultBeauty.co.uk

Chanel Rouge Allure Luminous Intense Lip Colour in Passion, £26.35 (was £31)

“I always describe this as a real classic red lipstick. The colour suits everyone and is really pigmented, so you get your money’s worth, but the whole Chanel range allows for a lot of nuances to match your skin tone and preference.” – Mary Greenwell, A-List Make-Up Artist

Available at JohnLewis.com 

MAC Retro Matte Liquid Lip Colour in Fashion Legacy, £19

“Gorgeously bold, this rich red is easy to apply and, more importantly, it stays put and doesn’t flake or crease. My go-to every time.” – Kenneth Soh, Pro Make-Up Artist

Available at MacCosmetics.co.uk

NARS Velvet Matte Lip Pencil in Dragon Girl, £22

“I love this so much because you can line and shape your lips, before filling them in with the fabulous colour. It’s so quick and fast to apply – full-on glamour in a jiffy.” – Ruby Hammer MBE, Expert Make-Up Artist

Available at CultBeauty.co.uk

MAC Lipstick in Russian Red, £17.50

“It’s an icon for good reason – and my personal favourite. This universal shade of red is as classic and timeless as it gets, and looks incredible on everyone. Plus, the signature matte texture has a lovely glide to it, making it a really comfortable wear. It looks chic, sophisticated and vamps up any look in seconds.” – Cher Webb, Make-Up Artist

Available at MacCosmetics.co.uk

Lisa Eldridge Lipstick in Velvet Jazz, £26

“This is so light, comfortable and packed with pigment. It’s really flattering too, as it doesn’t create a strong contrast against a pale complexion, which makes it very wearable.” – Caroline Barnes, A-List Make-Up Artist

Available at LisaEldridge.com

Chanel Rouge Allure Ink Fusion in Metallic Red, £26.35 (was £31)

“Easy to apply and very flattering, this is a gorgeous shade that’s perfect for party season and year-round. It has a really pretty, light reflective sheen to it and never feels sticky or too thick.” – Zoe Taylor, Make-Up Artist

Available at JohnLewis.com

Code 8 Beauty Matte Velour Lipstick in Mambo, £27

“A ravishingly beautiful shade of vibrant red. It has a hint of a pink undertone that illuminates and brightens the skin. The texture is a velvet matte that remains flexible and comfortable to wear, and it helps sculpt and shape the lips with ease. I’m obsessed.” – Lee Pycroft, Make-Up & Wellbeing Expert

Available at Net-A-Porter.com

Marc Jacobs Beauty Lipstick in Oh Miley, £25

“For bright red, this shade in Oh Miley is my favourite. It looks great against pared-back make-up and is a real statement, yet surprisingly flattering. It also has a really nourishing formula for extra hydration and smoothness.” – Morgane Martini, Expert Make-Up Artist

Available at Net-A-Porter.com

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