Red lipstick has long been a powerful symbol in beauty, representing love, power and seduction across cultures and eras. Its allure is deeply rooted in history, psychology and cultural movements. 

The association of red lips with allure dates back to ancient civilizations. In ancient Egypt, both men and women adorned their lips with red hues derived from natural pigments, signifying status and beauty. Cleopatra, for instance, famously crushed beetles and ants to achieve her signature red lips. 

Centuries later, during the 1920s, red lipstick became a symbol of women’s liberation. Actress Clara Bow popularized the “cupid’s bow” lip, inspiring many women to embrace bold red lips as a statement of independence. Icons like Marilyn Monroe further cemented red lipstick’s association with glamour and sensuality. Her signature red pout became emblematic of Hollywood’s golden age, influencing beauty standards for generations.

Psychologically, red is a color that commands attention. Studies have shown that red lips can enhance perceived attractiveness, as the color is often associated with passion and vitality. Culturally, red lipstick has been wielded as a tool of empowerment. During the suffragette movement, women donned red lipstick as a bold statement of defiance and autonomy. Cosmetics brand founder Elizabeth Arden even distributed tubes of red lipstick to suffragettes marching on Fifth Avenue in New York City, reinforcing its role as a symbol of women’s liberation.

Selecting the ideal red lipstick involves understanding your skin’s undertone. Cosmetics brand Clinique suggests that individuals with cool undertones opt for shades like deep, berry-toned reds, while warmer complexions shine with brick or tomato reds. It is essential to try different shades to see which complements your skin tone best.

The beauty industry offers a plethora of red lipsticks catering to various preferences and skin tones. Dior Rouge Dior Forever Transfer-Proof Lipstick is known for its intense pigment and 16-hour wear, offering a luxurious feel and long-lasting color. MAC’s Ruby Woo remains an iconic shade praised for its bold color and compatibility with the majority of skin tones, making it a staple in many makeup collections. 

When choosing a red lipstick, factors such as finish, longevity and overall makeup look should be considered. Testing shades at a beauty counter or using virtual try-on tools can help in finding the perfect match. 

Red lipstick’s journey from an ancient symbol to modern beauty staple underscores its timeless appeal. Whether channeling classic Hollywood glamour or making a bold statement, the perfect red lip remains a powerful expression of individuality and confidence.

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Hi! I’m Kayla Friedman, A Magazine’s editor-in-chief. My staff and I are committed to bringing you the most important and entertaining news from the realms of fashion, beauty and culture. We are full-time students and hard-working journalists. While we get support from the student media fee and earned revenue such as advertising, both of those continue to decline. Your generous gift of any amount will help enhance our student experience as we grow into working professionals. Please go here to donate to A Magazine.