THE RED LIP

Red lipstick isn’t just makeup!

Through the ages, it has had a rich exotic history, from ancient rituals to a modern symbol of empowerment and fashion.

The earliest known use of the red lip colour dates back to around 3500 BCE in ancient Mesopotamia. Queen Pubari of Sumer applied a mixture of white lead and crushed red stones to her lips, signifying her elite status. Similarly, the ancient Egyptians including Cleopatra used red pigments derived from crushed cochineal insects to adorn their lips, often mixing them with things like fish scales and carmine to achieve the perfect hue.

In Ancient Greece red lips were associated with sex workers, who used the colour to signify their profession.

But during the Roman Empire , red lips became a marker of high social standing with aristocrats. Women used expensive pigments like vermilion, despite its health risks !

The middle ages saw a decline in lipstick, as the Christian Church condemned makeup as sinful.

However the Renaissance revived interest in cosmetics, with  pale skin and rosy lips becoming fashionable indicators of health and youth.

In the 16th century Queen Elizabeth I popularised red lipstick among the English aristocracy. Her custom crimson shade was made from cochineal, gum Arabic, egg whites and fig milk.

but during the reign of James I, it once again became illegal, as laws were enforced to prevent women from wearing it – it was said they were tricking men into marriage !!

In the  20th century Red lipstick became a symbol of women’s rights and defiance the suffragettes used it as a statement of independence and during World War II shades like Victory Red became popular symbolising patriotism and resilience.

Today Red lipstick continues to be a symbol of confidence and individuality. It remains a timeless accessory reflecting strength and expression 

Red lipstick has transcended mere cosmetic use embodying cultural social and political meaning .

Can anybody wear Red Lips ? 

As a beauty expert I believe they can!

Although personally I prefer it for an evening look.

Different colours will suit different hair and skin types 

Here is my recommendation and some of the best brands ! 

Hair is Black, Dark Brown, skin is Olive or darker

Most Reds suit this colouring and red lips with dark hair is stunning. Darker skins effortlessly carry these colours. 

Try Rich blue reds , Burgundy and Wine Reds and scarlet or Crimson 

Like Charlotte Tilbury £29 Hollywood Vixen

Hair is Brunette ,Auburn, Dark Blonde and skin in medium with warm undertones 

Try classic true Reds, Orange or Tomato Reds, Brick Reds like 

Try Revolution in Decadence £5 

Hair is Blonde,  Light Brown or Red. Skin is paler with cool undertones 

Try Rasberry Reds soft Crimson. For Redheads – Blue based reds like cherry  

Try ELF in crimson price £9