How To Wear Dark Lipstick In The Summer

Who says you can’t wear dark lipstick in July?! Though warm weather seems cosmically aligned with pinks, corals, and reds, there’s no reason that your favourite berry and wine lip hues have to go into hiding come summertime. The trick to wearing deep lip colours in the warmer months lies in pairing the right formulas and shades with seasonally appropriate blushes, highlighters, and shadows. To get the lowdown, we talked to make-up artist Faye Lauren to find out how to rock a dark lip all year long.

GO SHEER

If you’re new to wearing dark lip shades in the summer, Lauren says to start with a translucent balm. She recommends a sheer shade like Korres Wild Rose Lip Balm Pot – its nourishing formula bridges the gap between a matte finish and a gloss to give you a subtle deep cherry stain with added hydration.

STICK TO SANGRIA

When it comes to colour, stick to deep, fruity hues. “I like dark berry tones that look like just you had a glass of sangria,” says Lauren. “Avoid anything that’s too brown or nude, because once you have a tan it will wash you out.” Opt for a rich, playful fuchsia like Laura Mercier Crème Smooth Lipstick in Raspberry — its pink undertones will bring out the natural flush in your cheeks. And for a bolder night-time look, swipe on Mirenesse Mattfinity Lip Rouge in No. 6 Paris.

FRESHEN UP YOUR FACE

The easiest way to wear a dark lip in July without looking you’re stuck in September is to brighten up the rest of your face. Lauren likes to start with a glow-enhancing tinted moisturiser like this one from Caudalie, followed by a bright coral blush (try stila’s convertible color in petunia) and a creamy highlighter like Jelly Pong Pong’s Glow Getter. Keep your eye shadow soft and light, says Lauren, in order to keep the focus on your lips.