One of the most iconic beauty looks is a red lip. Whether for a formal dinner or class, there’s a perfect red lip look for any occasion – and it involves a three-step process to ensure your color lasts.

Marilyn Monroe made red lips famous in the 1950s, and since then, women have imitated her iconic look.

Starting off, remember to apply a quality lip balm before you plan to wear lipstick. All lipstick, especially matte finishes, will dry out your lips and leave them looking and feeling chapped by the end of the day. The best balms are those labeled ‘medicated’ because they provide extra hydration and thus work well under other lip products. A good lip balm is Blistex Medicated Lip Balm.

Next, it’s important to line your lips with a liner that matches your natural lip tone. Don’t use a red lip liner, because your lipstick shade will be compromised by the competing color. Using a lip liner that is the same shade as your natural lip color will prevent color from bleeding and keep the lipstick shade the same color you were expecting.

Use a base shade that will stain your lips. Your lipstick will most likely wear off throughout the day, but having a lip stain underneath your lipstick will ensure that you retain the same color for hours. If possible, try to find a shade that is similar to your lipstick, otherwise the pigment will change. I recommend Revlon Just Bitten Kissable Balm Stain in Romantic.

Now for the most important part; your main lipstick shade. Before you choose your lipstick, make sure you keep in mind the shade. Fair gals look best in blue-based shades that create contrast between their skin and lips. Olive-toned ladies look best in orange-based reds that bring out their naturally warm tones. Darker-toned girls look best in pink-based reds that complement their rich complexion.

Another thing to keep in mind is the texture of your lipstick. Matte shades are formulated without shine, so they are especially drying and require much more attention to moisturizing beforehand. Pearl and cream finishes sometimes contain natural extracts that keep lips moisturized, so dryness isn’t as common with these finishes. A quality product is Clinique Chubby Stick Intense in Mightiest Maraschino.

No matter what shade or texture of lipstick you are using, make sure that you know the importance of moisturizing, base shading and proper application. This will ensure that you will keep rocking those red lips all day.

Alisa Smith is a sophomore communication and political science major from Arlington. She can be contacted at 335-1140 or by [email protected]. The opinions expressed in this column are not necessarily those of the staff of The Daily Evergreen or those of The Office of Student Media.