How to Wear Orange Lipstick
You've likely seen orange lipstick decorating the lips of fashion models on the runways, but you may wonder how in the world you'd wear orange lipstick yourself. The color is bright, flirty and youthful, but it is also dramatic. The key to success in wearing orange lipstick is to choose the proper color for your skin tone and to keep the rest of your makeup palette understated.
Choosing a Color
Orange comes in a variety of shades, from bright neon to burnt umber. While brighter shades work well on darker skin tones, fair people should look for orange shades that are closer to pink on the spectrum. If you're unsure of the right color for you, buy an inexpensive orange lipstick with a creamy consistency and mix it with a color of lipstick you already use and know looks just great on you. This will allow you to wear your new color with confidence.
How to Apply
Apply a layer of nude lip liner to give your lips a foundation. Layer on your orange lipstick in a smooth layer. Purse your lips on a tissue, and apply another layer to make the color more vivid. Finish with a layer of gloss; if the gloss has a gold, metallic tone, this is all the better. The rest of your makeup should be toned down and understated. Apply an eye shadow of pale brown across your eyelid to just above the crease. Apply a layer of false lashes to draw attention to your eyes, and use several layers of mascara. Use a peachy blusher on your cheekbones for a summery look or apply a bronzer to keep your entire face looking warm and glowing.
Hairstyles
Orange lipstick emphasizes a natural, youthful, summery look and your hairstyle shouldn't compete with this vision. Sweep your hair back into a loose ponytail for a young and fresh look. If your hair is naturally curly or frizzy, don't tame it into straight locks. Allow the natural texture of your hair to shine through. Or, train the hair around your face into a few framing curls. If your hair is auburn or chestnut, keep your hair loose and flowing. The highlights in your hair will match and complement your lipstick tone.
Where to Wear
Orange lipstick is appropriate for evening wear, with both dramatic and casual styles, especially when the weather is warm and your skin has a slight glow from the sun. You can also wear orange lipstick in the office, but you may choose to use orange lipstick with a matte finish, so you're not overdressed for the occasion. As you know, if you're a regular lipstick wearer, you don't want the tone of your lipstick to clash with the tone of your clothing. It's orange's ability to blend that makes it such a valuable addition to your lipstick collection. Orange looks fabulous and warm with red dresses, and romantic and flirty with pink ensembles. Outfits with brown or bronze tones also look fabulous when paired with orange lip tones.
