The Red Nails Trend was all the rage in 2024. Moving into 2025, Red Lipstick is taking center stage. With a deep history of power and rebellion, red lipstick is a bold and timeless beauty statement, one making a major comeback! We understand, it may feel like a bold move, but we have a feeling once you find he right shade and the style to pair it with, you’d feel beautiful and powerful in the head turning shade.  

Whether you’re going for a classic, sultry, or modern look, choosing the right hair and makeup styles to complement your red lips is key. To take the fear out of your first application, we have a comprehensive guide to the best hair and makeup pairings that will enhance the power of red lipstick. Less trial and error, more rocking your new whole identity! 

Classic Looks That Pair Well with Red Lipstick

 

1. Winged Eyeliner and Red Lips

 

The classic pin-up look popularized by icons like Marilyn Monroe and Dita Von Teese pairs a perfect red lip with sharp, winged eyeliner.

  • Why it works: The simplicity of black liner balances the boldness of red lips without overwhelming the face.
  • How to achieve it: Use a liquid or gel eyeliner to create a precise flick at the outer corner of your eyes. Keep the rest of your eye makeup minimal with mascara and a neutral eyeshadow base.
  • Best for: A vintage glam look that suits all face shapes and skin tones.
  • Celebrity Inspiration: Marilyn Monroe’s signature look, often paired with MAC’s "Ruby Woo."

 

2. Soft Neutral Eyes and Red Lips

 

For a more understated and elegant style, pairing red lipstick with soft, neutral eyeshadow is a go-to option.

  • Why it works: Neutral shades like taupe, beige, and soft brown enhance the eyes without competing with the lips.
  • How to achieve it: Use a matte or shimmer neutral shade on the eyelid and blend a slightly darker shade into the crease. Finish with mascara for a soft, polished look.
  • Best for: Daytime events, work, or casual chic occasions.
  • Celebrity Inspiration: Taylor Swift’s signature red lip, often worn with neutral eyeshadow and Pat McGrath’s "Elson 4."

 

3. Smokey Eyes and Red Lips

 

A bold, dramatic choice, the combination of a smokey eye with red lips exudes confidence and glamour.

  • Why it works: When done correctly, a well-blended smokey eye can create a sultry effect without clashing with a red lip.
  • How to achieve it: Stick to neutral-toned or soft brown smokey eyes instead of heavy black to prevent an overpowering look. Blend well and use a touch of shimmer to open up the eyes.
  • Best for: Evening events, formal occasions, and photoshoots.
  • Celebrity Inspiration: Rihanna often rocks this look with Fenty Beauty’s "Stunna Lip Paint in Uncensored."

The Best Hairstyles to Wear with Red Lipstick

1. Old Hollywood Waves

Classic, voluminous Hollywood waves add a touch of vintage glamour that pairs beautifully with red lips.

  • Why it works: The soft curls frame the face and enhance the femininity of the look.
  • How to achieve it: Use a curling iron or hot rollers to create uniform waves, then brush them out for a seamless finish.
  • Best for: Weddings, formal events, or a glamorous night out.
  • Celebrity Inspiration: Blake Lively, often seen wearing classic waves with Chanel’s "Gabrielle."

2. Sleek High Ponytail

A modern and sophisticated choice, a sleek ponytail draws attention to the lips and gives a polished look.

  • Why it works: The clean, structured style keeps the focus on the bold lips.
  • How to achieve it: Use a smoothing serum or gel to keep the ponytail sleek and secure it high at the crown.
  • Best for: Fashion-forward events, cocktail parties, and business chic looks.
  • Celebrity Inspiration: Ariana Grande, who pairs her high pony with MAC’s "Russian Red."

3. Messy Bun or Chignon

A relaxed, romantic updo like a messy bun or chignon can add effortless charm to a red-lipped look.

  • Why it works: It creates a balanced, soft contrast to the strong statement of red lips.
  • How to achieve it: Twist hair into a low bun, leaving out a few face-framing pieces for an undone, chic effect.
  • Best for: Date nights, casual brunches, and artful elegance.
  • Celebrity Inspiration: Meghan Markle, who often pairs this hairstyle with Dior’s "999."

4. Short Bob with Red Lips

A sharp bob or a soft, tousled bob can give an edgy, modern look when paired with red lipstick.

  • Why it works: The structure of the cut enhances the impact of red lips, giving off a bold and stylish vibe.
  • How to achieve it: Style with a flat iron for a sleek look or use a texture spray for a more relaxed, tousled effect.
  • Best for: Edgy fashion-forward statements and effortless chic.
  • Celebrity Inspiration: Taylor Swift’s tousled bob, often complemented by Pat McGrath’s “Elson."

5. Natural Curls or Textured Hair

Embracing natural curls or textured hair enhances the boldness of red lipstick with a touch of effortless beauty.

  • Why it works: The volume and movement of curly hair complement the striking appeal of red lips without being overly polished.
  • How to achieve it: Define natural curls with a curl cream or mousse, or use a diffuser to add volume while keeping the texture soft and bouncy.
  • Best for: A modern, confident, and effortless look that celebrates natural beauty.
  • Celebrity Inspiration: Zendaya, who often rocks natural curls with Lancôme’s "L’Absolu Rouge in Caprice."

 

How to Adapt Red Lipstick to Different Occasions

Daytime and Office-Appropriate Red Lips

  • Choose a soft, muted red or a lip stain for a more natural look.
  • Pair with minimal eye makeup and dewy skin for a fresh-faced appearance.
  • Opt for soft waves or a simple ponytail to keep the look polished but not overdone.
  • Best Brands: Glossier "Generation G in Zip," Dior "Rouge Dior 772."

Evening and Party-Ready Red Lips

  • Go bold with a matte or glossy red lipstick for high impact.
  • Pair with a dramatic smokey eye or glittery lids for extra glamour.
  • Style your hair in voluminous waves or a sleek ponytail for added sophistication.
  • Best Brands: Tom Ford "Cherry Lush," YSL "Rouge Pur Couture 01."

Red Lips for Casual Days

  • Try a blurred or diffused lip effect by dabbing on lipstick with your finger for a soft finish.
  • Keep eye makeup minimal, using just mascara and lightly groomed brows.
  • Pair with a messy bun or air-dried natural waves for an effortless chic look.
  • Best Brands: Fenty Beauty "MVP," Maybelline "Red for Me.”

The Power of Lip Liner with Red Lipstick 

Lip liner is an essential tool for perfecting a red lip. It helps define the shape, prevents feathering, and extends the longevity of your lipstick. To achieve a flawless red lip, choose a liner that matches your lipstick or a slightly darker shade for added dimension. Outline your lips carefully, then fill them in before applying lipstick for a smooth, even base. Some great lip liners for red lipstick include Charlotte Tilbury’s "Kiss ‘N’ Tell" and MAC’s "Cherry." A well-applied lip liner enhances precision and ensures your red lipstick stays vibrant and polished all day long.

Red lipstick is an empowering beauty choice that feels impactful in so many ways and the most beautiful part is there is a “perfect shade” for everyone. No matter your skin tone, hair color or texture, red lipstick is truly a shade everyone can wear. Whether you opt for a classic winged liner, soft neutral eyes, or an elegant updo, red lipstick will always remain a statement of confidence, boldness, and an always timeless beauty statement.