Building a Lipstick Wardrobe

I buy lipsticks instinctively and impulsively [and without regret], which has left me with a collection which renders those early AM decisions tough. Such occasions have produced some stand-out favourites, and it's clear to me that I could cut down my collection and still meet all of my lip-loving needs. Whether you're building up your wardrobe, or cutting it back, today's post is all the lipstick inspo you need for a New Year makeup overhaul...

THE CLASSIC RED : If you only have one lipstick to your name then I sure hope it's a red. Whether you wear it on a daily basis or save it for special occasions  - there's no denying that the feel-good-factor of a red lip is universal. Opt for a true blue-toned red with some serious pigment power and a slight satin sheen. TGG recommends : Chanel Rouge Coco Hydrating Creme Lip Colour in 19 Gabrielle

THE ICONIC NUDE : Firstly, a nude lip does not mean foundation lips - so with that dubious trend/misconception in mind, be wary of anything too matte or too beige. Think 'glow' and 'radiance' and opt for a light peachy-pink with a creamy consistency and plenty of gold shimmer [which serves to create the appearance of a full pout]. TGG recommends : Tom Ford Lip Colour in Vanilla Suede

MY LIPS BUT BETTER : The one we're all in an eternal search for. The best MLBB shades will be a little warmer and a little darker than your natural lip colour, not too matte, and not too glossy. The kind of lipstick which you can apply without a mirror, and which doesn't leave a noticeable line as it wears off. Tick those boxes and you've found The One. TGG recommends : MAC Lipstick in Cosmo

THE ON-THE-GO EXTRAORDINAIRE : When a lip product serves as both lip liner and lipstick then you know you're onto a winner. If you're a frequent commuter, or regularly reapply your lipstick throughout the day then a lipstick in pencil form will add ease and speed to your on-the-go makeup routine. Ensure that the shade is neither too dark nor too bright [this eliminates room for error] and choose a formula which leans sheer and glossy. TGG recommends : Nars Velvet Gloss Lip Pencil in Hopi

THE LOW-MAINTENANCE LEGEND : A tinted lip balm will tempt even those who avoid lipstick, for it's 2-in-1 capabilities, ease of use, and subtlety of appearance are failsafe elements. The best are long-lasting, wear off discreetly, and can be reapplied with ease. TGG recommends : Burt's Bees' Tinted Lip Balm in Hibiscus

THE POP OF COLOUR : Whether you opt for a fuchsia pink, a bold orange, or a Joan Holloway-esque coral, when braving colour go ALL OUT. Bright, bold, and brilliant are the only requirements on the agenda. For the ultimate colour boost, choose a richly pigmented creamy formula which applies opaque in just one coat. TGG recommends : No7 Stay Perfect Lipstick in Gay Geranium

THE PERFECT PINK : Somewhere on the spectrum between 'my lips but better' and 'pop of colour' sits the pink which ticks all of your boxes. For me, this sits somewhere in the middle - a muted take on a vibrant shade, with an ever so slight hint of coral. The kind of colour which can be worn day or night, doesn't distract from a bold eye look, and serves to add a little warmth when my complexion is erring on the side of ghostly. TGG recommendsCharlotte Tilbury Matte Revolution Lipstick in Amazing Grace

THE DAY-TO-NIGHT GEM : Choose a colour which presents a subtle take on a bold shade, and a formula which allows for either a sheer finish with one application, or a more defined look with additional layers. Et voila, the perfect day to night duo in just one bullet! TGG recommends : Chanel Rouge Allure Satin Lip Colour in 119 Captivante

What are the vital components of your lipstick wardrobe?

G x

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