From The Straits Times    |

While seasonal makeup trends don’t really apply to us Singaporeans, somehow, there is still a natural inclination to reach for brighter lip colours in the months of March to June, and darker ones at the start of September.

So if you’re feeling like “spring” – because we sure are with all these makeup collections – it’s time to bring out your best bold orange lippies.

B How to wear matte and glossy orange liquid lipstick and balm trend.png

Here are five tips from makeup artist Rina Sim, on how to wear the striking shade in all hues and textures:

#1 Keep the rest of your makeup clean
Remember: With bold makeup, always stick to highlighting one feature at a time. If you’re sporting a bright orange lip, keep the rest of your face looking relatively “clean” and neutral.

Rina recommends pairing this daring lip colour with “glowy” (not dewy) skin. The latest long-wearing fluid foundations and radiant powders are perfect for this look.

For the eyes, sweep a champagne coloured eyeshadow (think “half-baked” or “sidecar” from Urban Decay’s first Naked palette) over your lids, then apply two coats of mascara to “open up” those peepers. For extra definition, you can try tightlining the eyes. Those who are a little more adventurous with makeup can also add a slight wing or draw a thicker line.

This way, you’ll bring all the attention to your lips.

#2 You don’t always have to use lip liner
We know, it’s been said time and time again that you should use a lip liner before your lipstick. It gives long-lasting hold, and sharpens the look – that much is true. But are you really going to hole up in the office after lunch, lining your lips and reapplying your lipstick with a brush? No. Well, we thought so.

The method might work for a two or three hour party, but it isn’t that office-friendly. So toss out the lip liner for an easy daily look. (Gradient lips, anyone?)

#3 It’s not always about being bold
Speaking of being office-appropriate, it’s not always a good idea to step into a meeting sporting a red-hot mandarin lippie. (Unless of course, it’s the time to stand out.)

For times like these, “dab your finger on the bullet of the lipstick, then transfer the colour onto your lips – you get a beautiful soft hue,” says Rina.

#4 Match the texture to the size of your lips
Bright and bold oranges make thin lips look smaller. Reach for a gloss instead, which plumps your pucker and gives the illusion of fuller lips. Likewise, ladies with slightly thicker lips should avoid finishes that are too glossy. Try a satin lippie for a hint of shine, or keep it matte.

#5 Always prep your lips
Bold colours make dry and chapped lips stand out. So always remember to prep them beforehand: Put on a thick layer of a treatment balm before you go to bed, then exfoliate your lips the next morning. If you don’t have the time, then try doing an impromptu lip mask. Apply a thick layer of lip balm, then place a piece of cling wrap over your lips for three minutes – voila!

Now all you have to do is to find the best orange lip for your skin tone and start experimenting!

Photography: Vernon Wong; Art direction: Eugene Quek and Sabrina Tiong; Hair and makeup: Rina Sim using Dior (9762 6084); Model: Sherena Ng / Basic Models

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