BeautyBijou

TUTORIAL/TREND: OXBLOOD LIPS

A trend that I have been absolutely loving is the 'oxblood' lip. The shade just exudes that 'gloss' and class of the red carpet whilst remaining almost unkempt and grungy. It can be worn smudged, stained, strong or glossy. I just love it.

Kate Bosworth looking absolutely stunning with a minimal eye and flawless face

A full face of makeup, but the lip still remains understated unlike a typical pillarbox red.

The shade looks gorgeous with full, smokey brown eyes or minimal eye makeup and full, defined brows.

Ranging from warmer, richer red/blue tones to muted brown matte shades, I've seen this trend translate onto a number of faces and each look seems to bring something new.

Some may say the look is a little drastic for an every day look or for a night out, so I've adapted it to be slightly more wearable, taking note of the glossier edge of the look.

1. Start off by 'blanking' out any redness from the lips to create a fresh base for the lip colour to show 'true'. Make sure you've moisturised your lips before hand so they don't look dry. You can skip this step, but I feel this also helps the lip colour to stay on longer without a product like 'Lipcote'. Line with a deep red liner if you wish.

2. Apply a deep red lip stain or non-sticky pigmented balm or gloss all over the lips, blot with toilet paper, apply again, and repeat until you have an even, demi-matte finish on the lip.

3. Using a lip brush, create an 'ombre' type effect on the lips by applying a deeper, darker shade of lipstick in the outer corners of the lips. Blot just as you did with the first colour, however each time you reapply the product, be sure to blend it in with your fingertip. Build up to your desired intensity.

4. If you want a slightly smudged effect on the lips which is more natural, leave the lips like this. Or, if you want a more refined, 'hollywood' finish, clean the outer edges up with a small detailer brush and a small amount of concealer.

5. Pair with a slightly dewy, demi-matte face and soft contouring. I used a copper eyeshadow all over my lids with a deeper brown in the crease and on the lower lash line to re-create that 'slept-in' eye look.