Above in banner image: Gabriela Hearst, Hermes, Alexander McQueen

December 27th, 2023

2023 Fall / Winter Makeup Runway Inspiration: Red Dahlia Bold Lip

One of the things that I noticed from the runways this season is more “wearability” in the sense that pieces were ready to wear. I also noticed that designers had more collections that featured ways to layer and accent this year, than years past. Pencil skirts, layered legging looks, tailored trousers and knits with satin tank tops are very welcome. I love the idea of purchasing seasonless pieces that can be restyled season after season. I was over the moon to see so many beautiful chic black trench coats.

Starting the fashion season, the NYFS is where we first saw a lot of red and burgundy. Pantone, of course, picked up on this as they do every year and gave us matched “Red Dahlia”. A beautiful warm burgundy that is truly classic and very wearable especially during the holiday season.

“Colors for Autumn/Winter 2023/2024 NYFW reach out beyond what we think is possible to catapult us into this new era, taking us to a place where boundaries of time, place, and identity are no longer fixed.” – Leatrice Eiseman, Executive Director, Pantone Color Institute

This deep, luxurious shade exudes elegance and sophistication. Whether you opt for a burgundy coat, dress, or accessories, this color is sure to make a statement and add a touch of glamour to your look. For the holidays, choose Red Dahlia for you lips!

How lucky that burgundy is one of those lipstick shades that flatter most skin tones regardless of skin tone or undertone. For your consideration, I choose four Red Dahlia inspired lipsticks to highlight in this article based on quality, wearability, and longevity.

Huda Power Bullet Matte Lipstick in “Ladies Night” $27.00

You can also buy a mini trial size for only $12.00

Huda’s Power Bullet Matte Lipsticks are non-drying and long lasting. Her formula is so popular is has a 4.8 out of 5 rating. Her “Ladies Night” shade is described as a “bold burgundy.” (warm toned)

NARS Audacious Lipstick in “Charlotte” $34.00

NARS describes this as Oxblood burgundy.

The luxury lipstick glides on like satin across skin with saturated coverage and NARS states the lipstick is hydrating and stays put and will not bleed or feather.

Chanel Rouge Coco Bloom Lipstick in “Blast” $45.00

Chanel boasts this lipstick combines intense, longwearing colour, a high-shine finish with hydrating benefits and a plumping effect that lasts up to 8 hours.

The patented formula, featuring a Hydraboost Complex containing mimosa, jojoba and sunflower waxes, glides on smoothly, so lips feel comfortable and soft while looking vibrant, full and supple. All in an innovative Rouge Coco case with a transparent cap so you can easily choose your shade.

Charlotte Tilbury Hyaluronic Happikiss Lipstick Balm in “Happiberry” $35.00

Hyaluronic Acid-infused hydrating lipstick balm formulated with C-peptides, passion fruit seed oil, and cupuacu seed butter for intense moisture.

Don’t Let Burgundy Or Red Lipstick Intimidate You

Everyone can wear this, but it takes some getting used to. Confidence is KEY

Before you do anything. Prep your lips. This will make a difference in how your lipstick looks and how long your lipstick lasts.

Exfoliate. Use a lip scrub and a lip brush.

Moisturize with a lip serum or lip balm. Make sure to apply this and give it time to fully absorb. You can’t layer lipstick on top of a slippery surface, it will feather or bleed. You can use a tissue to blot any excess balm away.

Line your lips. These make a difference in longevity. Think of it as a lip primer.

Take your time and apply lipstick slowly and carefully.

Use a tissue and blot the lips to absorb any oils and then reapply a second thin layer of lipstick. Some will take a single tissue layer and lay it over the lips and then use a powder brush with setting powder over the tissue. Just enough of the particles will make their way through the tissue to set the lipstick you applied. Once this is done, then apply a second thin layer of lipstick.

Clean Up: It’s ok if you need a small concealer brush or angular brush and concealer. Pointed Q-tips are amazing for cleaning up around the edges as well. Don’t forget to check your teeth for any lipstick that may transfer as well.

You now know how to shape your Red Dahlia inspired lips to perfection and take over the world!

Hoping your holidays will be merry and bright!

Sarah