10 Red lipsticks for a standout pout

With the wide range of reds available, how do you choose the right one? If you’re anything like Gwen Stefani, you’ll have plenty of “right ones”. In an interview with Cosmopolitan magazine, she said: "Everyone my whole entire life has always asked me, 'What colour red do you wear?' Well, I don't wear one colour red, you know. I love to mix it up." 

She’s also mentioned her preference for matte lipsticks thanks to their comfort, longevity and staying power. On that note, we dive into our own list of favourites in both classic bullet lipsticks and liquid formulations. 

Must-try bullet lipsticks

Wet n Wild Megalast Matte Lipstick in Stop Light Red

Matte is magic when it doesn’t cake, and this one stays smooth and creamy long after it’s applied. You won’t notice it on your lips because it’s lightweight, and the shade will definitely make people stop and stare. 

Wet n Wild Megalast High-Shine Lipstick in Crimson Crime

Wanting to give matte a miss? A high shine finish is a sure way to maximise your red. Another winning formula from Wet n Wild, this one is a treat for your lips: it offers nourishment with a mix of butters (murumuru and mango) and oils (sunflower and watermelon seed). 

Revolution Satin Kiss Lipstick in Ruby

Slip into something sexy with just a coat or two of this smooth lipstick. For a classic red lip, opt for a ruby shade, like this one. You’ll feel like royalty with its velvet finish, and your lips will love its rich and creamy texture. 

Zaron Matte Lipstick in Fierce

The perfect red lip is one that keeps your lips looking smooth and moisturised, and doesn’t bleed over your lip line. This formulation, with macadamia seed oil and jojoba seed oil, gets part one right… it’s just up to you to get the application right! 

Elizabeth Arden Lip Colour Matte in Legendary Red

Looking for a go-to lipstick that’ll carry you through from work to play? Stop the search… and add this one to your cart!  Not only does the shade live up to its name, the creamy formula is conditioning with anti-ageing properties (advanced ceramide complex, vitamin E and maracuja oil).  

Our top liquid lip colours

Black Opal Colorsplurge Liquid Matte Lipstick in Berry Red

Taking a slightly darker turn, this berry red hue is a must-have for the colder seasons or after-dark affairs. It’s highly pigmented and offers full coverage (as well as hydration thanks to vitamins C and E) without a heavy feeling or greasy residue. 

Essence 8H Matte Liquid Lipstick in Classic Red 

We love the staying power of matte lipsticks in general, but this one has impressed us (for eight hours straight!). It instantly gives you the colour and coverage you need, and doesn’t smudge or transfer. Plus, it’s waterproof. 

Smudge Long Lasting Liquid Matte Lipstick in Straight Fire

If you’re daring enough, line your lips and slick on this liquid fire-starter. Be warned: this red-hot hue will attract attention. It’s best suited to long nights out or settings that requires all eyes on you. Thankfully, it’s non-drying so you’ll feel comfortable and confident. 

The Body Shop Sheer Touch Lip & Cheek Tint in Power

Multitasking beauty products? Yes, please! Need more reason to bag this tint? It’s buildable – go from sheer to bold simply by swiping on an extra layer or two. And don’t worry about it feeling heavy on your skin, as it’s lightweight and non-sticky. 

Playgirl Liquid Lipstick in Red-Emption

We love that this Playgirl lipstick is cruelty-free and vegan, and its candy scent will leave you craving something sweet. Not to worry – the long-wearing formula will keep its deep, dark hue through dinner and beyond!