Red lipstick has long been more than just a beauty statement; it has symbolized power, defiance, and resilience for centuries. What you may not know, its most striking role emerged during World War II when it became a beacon of strength and resistance among women. A lot has changed since then, and yet it feels very reminiscent of trends across the globe. In a showing of strength, courage and togetherness, women (and men) are pulling out their ruby red shades showing the Red Lipstick trend is BACK! 

This History of Red Lipstick

Red Lipstick and World War II

During the war, makeup—especially a daring, bright red lipstick—became a powerful tool of morale and defiance. Despite rationing and scarcity, women persevered wearing red lipstick as a symbol of unwavering spirit. In Nazi-occupied territories, women used their bold red lips as an act of resistance, as Hitler was known to dislike cosmetics. This made red lipstick a defiant statement against oppression. They were fearless and remarkable in the face of insurmountable adversity. 

In the United States and the United Kingdom, red lipstick became an emblem of patriotism. In 1941, Elizabeth Arden was commissioned by the U.S. government to create a specific shade for women in the military. The result was “Victory Red,” a striking crimson hue that matched the women’s military uniforms. Women working in factories producing war supplies also wore red lipstick to maintain a sense of normalcy and strength, embodying the famous ‘Rosie the Riveter’ image that encouraged female empowerment. As someone who’s grandmother was a “Rosie”, the history behind the trend feels even more poignant. 

Even in concentration camps, women would secretly apply homemade lipstick, made from crushed bricks or berries, as a small act of defiance and self-expression. It served as a reminder that they were still human, still powerful, and still in control of their dignity.

Post-War Impact and the Rise of Hollywood Glamour

After the war, red lipstick became ingrained in popular culture as a timeless beauty standard. Hollywood stars like Marilyn Monroe, Elizabeth Taylor, and Audrey Hepburn solidified the red lip as a symbol of seduction and confidence. The 1950s saw an explosion of red lipstick shades in the market, with Revlon and Max Factor leading the industry and setting the standards for beauty.

The feminist movements of the 1960s and 70s briefly saw a decline in red lipstick’s popularity as a rejection of traditional beauty norms. Embracing a more natural, holistic style, the classic red lipstick was suddenly on hold. However, the power of the red lip made a strong comeback in the 1980s and 90s, aligning with the rise of power dressing and corporate feminism. Today, red lipstick remains a symbol of bold self-expression, strength, and confidence and has made it’s way to social platforms like TikTok and Instagram with people of all ages showing the shade they are newly adopting as their daily staple.

 

 

Finding the Perfect Shade of Red for Your Skin Tone and Hair Color

Finding the right shade of red lipstick is an empowering moment. Red lipstick is bold, strong and a little intimidating. But the right shade can transform your look, boost you confidence and elevate your aesthetic. However, with so many variations of red, it can be challenging to determine which hue suits you best. Here’s a guide based on skin tone and hair color:

Choosing Red Lipstick by Skin Tone

Fair Skin

For fair skin tones, classic blue-based reds or cherry reds are ideal. These shades brighten up the complexion without overwhelming it.

Light to Medium Skin

Those with light to medium skin tones can pull off a variety of reds, but warm reds with hints of orange or coral tend to be the most flattering.

  • Recommended Shades: Charlotte Tilbury “Tell Laura,” Pat McGrath’s “Elson 2,” Armani Beauty “Lip Maestro 400.”

Olive Skin

Olive skin tones shine with warm reds, especially those with orange or brick undertones.

  • Recommended Shades: YSL “Rouge Pur Couture 01,” NARS “Heat Wave,” Gucci Beauty “Goldie Red.”

Deep Skin

Deep skin tones look incredible with rich, deep reds, including wine and berry shades.

  • Recommended Shades: Fenty Beauty “MVP,” Pat McGrath “Guinevere,” MAC “Diva.”

Choosing Red Lipstick by Hair Color

Blonde Hair

Blondes can wear classic blue-based reds, soft cherry hues, and peachy-red tones for a fresh, striking contrast.

Brunette Hair

Brunettes look great in almost all shades of red, but deeper reds, plums, and true classic reds complement their rich hair color best.

Black Hair

Dark-haired individuals can rock bold, dramatic reds, from deep burgundy to bright, classic red.

  • Recommended Shades: Armani “Rouge d’Armani 400,” MAC “Russian Red,” Gucci “Janet Rust.”

Red Hair

Redheads should look for warm reds with orange undertones to complement their natural vibrancy.

Trending Red Lipsticks in 2025

In recent years, celebrity endorsements and social media trends have made certain red lipsticks go viral. Here are some of the most sought-after red lipsticks in 2024:

Pat McGrath Labs: The Luxe Icon

Pat McGrath, the legendary makeup artist, has created some of the most iconic red lipsticks. Her MatteTrance Lipstick in “Elson” and “Guinevere” are widely loved for their bold pigmentation and luxurious finish.

Taylor Swift’s Lipstick of Choice

Taylor Swift is often seen rocking her signature red lip, from the 2025 Grammy Awards in her Red sequin dress and red lips to the Eras Tour, the iconic look has become a staple of her aesthetic. She’s been known to favor Pat McGrath’s MatteTrance Lipstick in “Elson” and MAC’s “Ruby Woo.” The ‘Eras Tour’ has reignited a love for classic red lips with a new generation, making her go-to shades some of the most popular among fans.

Dior 999: The Universal Red

A cult classic, Dior’s Rouge Dior in shade 999 is known for its universally flattering appeal. Originally created in 1953, this iconic shade remains a best-seller and a favorite among makeup artists worldwide.

Fenty Beauty’s MVP: The Game Changer

Rihanna’s Fenty Beauty introduced the Icon Velvet Liquid Lipstick in MVP, an ultra-flattering blue-based red that has become a fan favorite due to its long-wearing, plush matte finish.

Charlotte Tilbury’s “Red Carpet Red”

For a glamorous, old-Hollywood red, Charlotte Tilbury’s Matte Revolution Lipstick in “Red Carpet Red” remains a must-have. The velvety formula and universally flattering shade make it a celebrity favorite.

Gucci Beauty’s Bold Reds

Gucci’s “Goldie Red” and “Janet Rust” have gained traction for their creamy texture and vintage-inspired aesthetic, making them a top choice for luxury lipstick lovers.

Red Lipstick as a Statement of Power

Red lipstick has transcended time and trends, remaining a steadfast, bold symbol of strength, rebellion, and most importantly self-expression. From its roots in wartime resilience to its modern-day status as a glam red-carpet staple, the power of red lipstick continues to inspire and empower you to feel beautiful. Whether you’re drawn to a classic crimson, a bold berry, or an electric orange-red, there’s a shade out there to elevate your confidence and make your own powerful statement.

 

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