How to Master a Dark Lip

With the colder weather comes a richer lip, and this season is all about even darker wine, berry, and chocolate hues. Scary? It doesn't have to be with these three simple steps.

A dark lip doesn't have to look Goth-if you pick the right color and pair it well with other makeup, it can be ultra-sophisticated, wearable, and chic. Plus, it's totally the 'It' look of the season.

Picking the Color: Selecting the right dark shade may seem daunting, but if you take your skin tone into consideration it will be a lot easier. "On deeper skin tones, a dark lip looks a bit more natural, while on lighter skin the look is more dramatic," explains BECCA's Style Director Kerry Cole.

If you're fair-skinned go for wines and burgundies. Deep scarlet and cranberry colors look best on medium-skin girls and if you have dark skin mulberry and blackberry hues will work best for you. When trying out your picks, test them on the inside tip of your finger instead of the back of your hand. Cole explains this the closest to your natural lip color.

Pairing the Color: A dark lip should be paired with natural glowing skin, subtle eyes, and flushed cheeks. Sephora Pro Julianna Sanchez suggests only applying product where it's needed, cover your trouble spots and leave the main focus on your lips. "You don't want to draw too much attention to the eye, so keep your makeup to a minimum with voluminous mascara."

Keeping the Color: In order to keep your bold lips from smearing or fading, it is important to apply primer first. This will not only keep things in place, but it will help hydrate your pout and protect against peeling and dryness. Next you should apply lip liner-if you don't have one in the exact shade, try an invisible liner. Finally, after your lipstick add a dab of lip stain or balm to really secure things in place.

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