Lipstick Colors and Personalities

Every day we telegraph to the world who we are through wardrobe and grooming. Hair and makeup play a big part in self-expression and are often the first non-verbal cues others notice before clothing. In fact a statement lip can say a lot with very little, which is a powerful tool for showcasing personality traits. Understanding color psychology is the first step in matching hues to attributes, so follow this blueprint to ensure your lipstick color supports your dazzling personality:

1. Red
   It’s hard to miss a statement red lip, which is the whole point. This woman is confident, passionate and fierce, and as attention-grabbing as her ruby lips. When high-gloss, a red lip is also provocative and seductive in a va-va-voom kind of way. It pairs best with simple, monochromatic looks — all black says sophisticated, all green says glamorous and all pink says flirty and fun. Always remember a red lip is so bold it’s considered an accessory, so pull back on the bling the next time you opt for crimson lips.

2. Plum
   Plum lips are sometimes just as dark and stormy as the wearer. Those who choose raisin-colored lipsticks project an air of sophistication, intrigue and sensuality that make others notice. This woman is intellectual, classy and mysterious, and she expects others to take her as seriously as she takes herself. The plum family of lip colors are most striking on olive-colored skin tones and rich wardrobe neutrals like camel, warm grays and cream.

3. Pink
   The most feminine and innocent of all lip colors, pink lipstick channels our inner nurturer and projects a caring, gentle and kind image. The ultimate caregiver, this woman is empathetic, disarming and unconditional, and her pink lips build trust with others all the more quickly. Pair with soft colors and casual looks for maximum effect — think pastel floral maxi skirt or babydoll dress, or even an LBD if the aim is to soften the message and present as less severe.

4. Coral
   Coral lips are understated yet still get noticed. More bold than a pink lip, coral lips imply an outgoing personality, optimistic outlook and social butterfly disposition. Above all this woman is a friendly busy bee who is always either coming or going — country club, book group, pickle ball, brunch, volunteering or Italy. This vivacious hue pairs best with causal, sporty looks like blue jeans, white denim, mini skirts, rompers or jumpsuits, and anything metallic.

5. Clear
   A lip color-free woman is a no fuss, no frills, no nonsense kinda woman who doesn’t beat around the bush, curry favor or dress to impress. Instead she speaks her mind unapologetically and expects others to take it or leave it. This woman typically has range — athletic prowess, intellectual rigor, global citizenship, doyenne status — which is why she’s far too busy to bother with lipstick. But rest assured there’s a drugstore lip moisturizer in her pocket, because she’s too sensible to buy a big-name brand.

See BestLifeOnline.com press feature here.