The
spring runways were filled with bright colours for spring, and not just on the clothes. Models sported vibrantly hued lips in all colours – from orange to red to deep plum to our favourite look of the season, hot pink. Diane von Furstenberg, Jil Sander and even Fendi embraced this playful trend. The pink lip is easy to wear, allows you to keep the rest of your makeup look clean and simple, and adds just the right pop of colour. To help make lips the focus this season we enlisted the help of International Lead Makeup Artist for NARS Cosmetics James Boehmer for his best tips on getting the perfect bright pink lip. “A statement making lip is a classic look and defies seasonal trend. Find the color you love and wear it well!” says Boehmer.


1. Pick the right shade.

“Finding a hot pink lip color is like finding any other accessory – chose what you’re attracted to!” says Boehmer. “Hot pink, fuchsia, magenta- the color looks great with all skin tones and is worn just like you wear any other statement making lip – with confidence.”

2. The prep.

The last thing you’re going to want when wearing a bright, bold colour are flaky lips. Boehmer suggests gently exfoliating your lips before applying colour and use a good rich lip balm. “Be sure to blot the excess lip balm off before applying color,” Boehmer says, so you don’t dilute the bright hue.

3. Applying the colour.

The trick to getting depth with this rich colour and to making it last is all in how you apply it. “I usually line and fill in entire lips with a lip liner. Then I will apply a little bit of translucent loose powder on top to soften the edge and to create a longer wearing finish,” suggests Boehmer. “Next apply lip color, either from the tube or with a brush. Blot color with a tissue after applying and repeat. The layering will keep the color on longer.”

See how the models wore this trend by viewing our hot pink lip gallery.


Keep the rest of the face simple with these tips on the next page …


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4. To go matte or glossy

Most runway looks were all about a matte pink lip, and to stay on trend, that’s your best bet. But Boehmer insists there are no hard-fast rules. “You should wear whatever finish feels right. If you want to try the glossy look this spring, you should try NARS Super Orgasm Lip Gloss or NARS Angelika Lip Gloss. You can dab a little bit of gloss in a similar or lighter color (on top of your lipstick) if you prefer a glossy look.”

6. Keep the rest of the face simple.

With a bold lip choice, it’s best to keep the rest of the face fresh and clean (that means a pass on the other big spring trend –vibrant eyeshadow). “A perfect, radiant complexion is always the starting point for any makeup application. I would do a little mascara, a groomed brow, and very transparent blush,” says Boehmer.

7. Boehmer’s fave products.

“Try NARS Carthage Pure Matte Lipstick available this summer. It’s a long-wear formula with lots of moisture. I also love NARS Schiap lipstick. It’s the perfect shocking pink!”

Shop for more of our favourite pink lip products here!


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Beauty flash: Double duty foundation

Test run the latest trends and celebrity looks in our Virtual Makeover Tool!