Bending the Budget: Red Lipstick

In Bending the Budget, we explore both high-end and budget-friendly beauty products you can use to achieve the same goal. They might not necessarily be dupes, but rather recommendations based on what I like about both products, or what they claim to accomplish.

A classic red lipstick might just be my #1 must have in a makeup collection. It’s a shade that can fit in while standing out in almost any situation, from casual day-to-day makeup to special events. But, a lot goes in to a great red lipstick, and finding the perfect one is no small feat.

A red lipstick must be accompanied with a great formula, no exceptions. Feathering and smearing are out of the question, because while pesky in general, they look even worse with red shades. You’re going to want something moisturizing, or at least not drying, because your lips will be making a statement… and you don’t want that statement to be “Needs hydration, ASAP.”

For these reasons, justifying a more pricey go-to red lipstick can be easier than other beauty products. Although, there are some awesome drugstore red lipsticks you can choose from if you’re only just dipping into the world of red lips, and want to play the field before settling down.

If you’re looking for a cool red, try:

Splurge: Too Faced Melted Lipstick in Melted Ruby ($21)
Splurge: Nars Velvet Matte Lip Pencil in Cruella ($26)
Save: e.l.f. Studio Moisturizing Lipstick in Red Carpet ($3)
Save: Revlon ColorBurst Lip Butter in Candy Apple
 ($8.50)
Save: Milani Color Statement Moisture Matte Lipstick in Matte Confident ($5.50)

If you’re looking for a warm red, try:

Splurge: Marc Jacobs Le Marc Lip Creme in Oh Miley ($30)
Splurge: Marc Jacobs Le Marc Lip Creme in Goddess ($30)
Save: Jordana Modern Matte Lipstick in Matte Caliente ($3)
Save: NYC Liquid Lip Stain in Get Noticed ($3)
Save: NYX High Voltage Lipstick in Rock Star
 ($6)

For tips on how to wear red lipstick, check out:
Red Carpet Worthy Red Lipstick Tutorial
How to Fix Smudged Lipstick the Right Way

What’s your perfect red lipstick shade?