Beauty Punch: Alluring Red Lipstick

You can tell Valentine’s Day and all its red roses, hearts, chocolate boxes and balloons to suck it, but there’s one red thing that you should never say goodbye to: red lipstick. This makeup must-have instantly transforms your look from everyday pretty to va-va-voom sexy. Red is passionate and fiery, and you’ll find yourself with that fierce attitude as soon as you put the lipstick on. We’ve rounded up our favorite red lipstick shades for you to try, but we didn’t do this because Valentine’s Day is coming up, mind. Why should you make a special effort on February 14, when you can look sexy every day of the week?

* Message in a Soda Bottle: Red lipstick already makes a strong statement, so keep the rest of your makeup simple. Go easy on your eye and cheek makeup – let the spotlight focus on your lips only.

Maybelline Color Sensational Lipcolor in Red Revival – It’s a nice, crisp red that’s perfect for daytime. A plus is the honey nectar in it, which makes it creamy and feels great on the lips. ($7.49)

YSL Rouge Volupte Silky Sensual Radiant Lipstick in Red Taboo – Mesmerize on a hot date with this deep, luxurious red shade. ($34)

Laura Mercier Crème Lip Color in Passion – Wear this fun, flirty bright red lipstick on romantic daytime outings. The color renews itself every time you press your lips together, so you won\’t have to do much retouching throughout the day. ($22)

MAC Cosmetics Lipstick in Lady Danger – Look dangerously seductive with a swipe of this cool red shade and a leather jacket! ($14)

NARS Lipstick in Shanghai Express – Have fun role-playing with this unique shade\’s dark oriental appeal. The longwearing formula will last for hours. ($24)

Chanel Rouge Allure Lipstick in Passion – This lipstick’s true red satin color is classy to the hilt. Match it with black heels and pearls for a Breakfast at Tiffany’s look.

[From Maybelline, YSL, Laura Mercier, MAC, NARS and Chanel]