In The Chair: How To Nail A Red Lip
Your step-by-step guide to creating the perfect red lip.
Welcome to In The Chair, our new beauty series where we share step-by-step guides on how to create some of today’s most in-demand makeup looks. In each episode, we’ll break down steps into easy-to-follow advice, helping you master everything from contour to smokey eyes.
Next up in the series: how to nail a red lip, with step-by-step instructions you can recreate with confidence.
When it comes to a red lip, it’s all about precision and confidence. A beautifully executed red lip enhances your natural shape while adding instant polish and impact. The key lies in thoughtful preparation and careful definition – creating clean lines, soft structure and a finish that feels intentional. By building the shape gradually, focusing on the outer corners and refining the Cupid’s bow with a light hand, the lips appear fuller, more sculpted and perfectly proportioned. The beauty of a red lip is its versatility; keep it soft and diffused for an elegant, daytime look or layer and gloss for a bold, evening-ready statement. With the right prep and controlled application, red lips can look polished and undeniably powerful.
Follow along as we take you through the step by step guide, sharing expert tips and techniques from makeup artist Diana Macoveiu that make all the difference...
Written By: Giuliana Biondi - Published: 11.02.26
Step 1: Prep your lips
Start by exfoliating your lips to remove any dryness or flakes. Follow with a nourishing lip moisturiser to create a smooth canvas. Remove the moisturiser once you are ready to being applying lip products.
Step 2: Start with a nude lip liner (an optional step for beginners)
If you’re new to lip liner, begin with a nude shade. This helps define your lips subtly and allows for slight overlining if desired, creating a natural shadow around the edges.
Step 3: Apply your red lip liner
Choose your preferred red lip liner. Make sure it’s sharpened for precision. Start from the outer corners of your lips, drawing towards the centre, but stop before reaching the Cupid’s bow and lower lip curve.
Step 4: Define the Cupid’s bow
Look straight ahead in the mirror. Create two small “X” shapes starting from the highest points of your Cupid’s bow, following the natural V. Connect the peaks of the X with the lines you already drew on the outer corners. Repeat on the other side.
Step 5: Connect the middle of the Cupid’s bow
Gently overline the Cupid’s bow slightly over your natural lip line for a subtle pout, being careful not to over curve. It should look soft, not draw-on.
Step 6: Slightly overline the lower lip
Overline just a touch at the centre of the lower lip. This helps mimic natural shadowing and enhances the pout without looking exaggerated, especially with a bold red shade.
Step 7: Set the lip liner
If you have mature skin or fine lines around your lips, lightly set the liner with a talc-based power. Talc absorbs excess moisture from creamy liner and prevents bleeding. Dust off any excess powder.
Step 8: Apply lipstick with a brush
Use a lip brush to apply your red lipstick, filling in your lips without disturbing the precise shape created by the liner. Avoid applying directly from the bullet as it risks smudging your work.
Step 9: Blot and layer
Blot your lips with a tissue to remove excess product, then apply a second layer of lipstick for intensity and longevity.
Step 10: Add gloss (optional)
For extra dimension and a subtle pout, apply gloss in the centre of your lips. Not too much on the outer corners to prevent bleeding. You can choose a clear, red or even peach-toned gloss to tweak the hue of your lipstick.
Step 11: Finishing touch
Step back, check symmetry and make minor adjustments with your lip liner or brush. Your red lips are now perfectly defined, long-lasting and ready to turn heads.
