Makeup Tips for a Red Dress How to Make Your Look Pop

Are you attending a special event or date night and planning to wear a red dress? Red is a bold and vibrant color that demands attention, and it’s important to select the right makeup to complement your outfit. Whether you’re going for a classic Hollywood glam look or something more modern and edgy, there are certain tips and tricks you can use to enhance your overall appearance and make your red dress stand out even more. In this article, we’ll dive into everything you need to know about makeup for a red dress.

1. Consider Your Skin Tone and Undertones

Before diving into specific makeup looks, it’s crucial to consider your skin tone and undertones. This will help you determine what shades and tones of makeup will best complement your red dress. For example, if you have fair skin with cool undertones, you may want to opt for cooler shades of makeup such as pink, mauve, or berry. On the other hand, if you have warm, golden undertones, warmer shades such as peach, gold, or bronze may be more flattering. It’s also important to keep in mind whether you have pink or yellow undertones, as this can affect which shades will look best on your complexion.

Finding Your Undertones

Not sure what your undertone is? Here are some quick tips to help you figure it out:

The Vein Test

Look at the veins on your wrist. If they appear bluish, you likely have cool undertones. If they appear greenish, you likely have warm undertones.

The White Cloth Test

Stand in front of a mirror holding up a white cloth near your face. If your complexion appears more yellow, you likely have warm undertones. If it appears more pink, you likely have cool undertones.

The Jewelry Test

Do you tend to gravitate towards silver or gold jewelry? If you prefer silver, you likely have cool undertones. If you prefer gold, you likely have warm undertones.

2. Create a Flawless Base

A red dress is a statement piece, so it’s important to have a flawless base for your makeup to ensure that your look is polished and put together. Start by cleansing, toning, and moisturizing your face. This will help create a smooth canvas for your makeup application. Next, apply a primer to help blur any imperfections and keep your makeup in place throughout the day or night. Choose a foundation that matches your skin tone and undertones, and blend it evenly onto your face using a damp beauty sponge or a foundation brush. Don’t forget to extend your foundation down your neck and onto your chest if your dress has a low neckline.

The Importance of Color Correcting

If you have any discoloration, blemishes, or dark circles, color correcting can be a game-changer. Use a green color corrector on any redness, a peach or orange one on dark circles, and a yellow one on any purple tones. Blend them out with a damp beauty sponge before applying your foundation for a more even and flawless base.

3. Focus on Your Eyes

Since your dress is the main focus of your outfit, you’ll want to keep your eye makeup relatively simple and let the dress shine. Opt for neutral shades such as browns, taupes, and golds to complement the red without competing with it. A classic winged eyeliner look paired with long, fluttery lashes can also add a touch of glamour to your overall look. If you want to add a pop of color, consider using a red or burgundy eyeshadow on the outer corners of your eyes. For a modern twist, experiment with colored eyeliners in shades like purple, blue, or green.

Choosing the Right Eyeliner and Mascara

When it comes to eyeliner and mascara, selecting the right formula is crucial. You’ll want something that is long-wearing and smudge-proof to prevent any makeup mishaps throughout the day or night. Look for waterproof formulas that won’t budge, even if you get a little teary-eyed during an emotional speech or dance.

4. Add a Pop of Color to Your Lips

Since your dress is already red, you may be hesitant to wear a red lipstick. But don’t shy away from a bold lip just yet! A classic red lip paired with a red dress can create an elegant and timeless look. If you prefer a softer look, opt for a pink or peachy nude shade instead. Make sure to line your lips with a lip liner that matches your lipstick to prevent any bleeding or feathering throughout the day. And don’t forget to bring your lipstick with you for touch-ups!

How to Choose the Right Lip Color

As mentioned earlier, your skin tone and undertones play a significant role in which lip color will look best on you. Generally, cool-toned skin looks best with blue-based reds, while warm-toned skin looks best with orange-based reds. If you have a medium to deep complexion, consider trying a darker or deeper red lipstick for a more dramatic effect.

5. Don’t Forget About Your Cheeks

Last but not least, complete your look by adding some color to your cheeks. A light dusting of a soft, rosy blush can add a natural flush to your face without competing with your red dress. For a more sculpted look, use a bronzer to contour your cheekbones, temples, and jawline. Just be sure to blend it out well for a seamless finish.

Highlighter: To Glow or Not to Glow?

While highlighter can add a beautiful glow to your face, it’s important to use it sparingly when wearing a red dress. Too much shimmer can take away from the boldness of the red and make your face look too shiny. If you do choose to use highlighter, stick to a subtle, champagne shade and lightly dust it on the high points of your face.

FAQs

Q: Should I match my eyeshadow to my dress?

A: It’s generally not recommended to match your eyeshadow to your dress color, as this can create an overwhelming look. Instead, opt for neutral shades or complementary colors.

Q: Can I wear a bold lip with a red dress?

A: Absolutely! A bold lip can add a touch of glamour to your overall look. Just be sure to consider your skin tone and undertones when selecting a lip color.

Q: Can I wear a smoky eye with a red dress?

A: While a smoky eye can look great with a red dress, it’s important to keep the rest of your makeup minimal to avoid looking too dramatic. Stick to neutral tones and skip the bold lip in this case.

Q: How do I prevent my lipstick from transferring onto my dress?

A: To prevent any lipstick mishaps, make sure to blot your lips after applying your lipstick and set it with a translucent powder. You can also use a lip primer before applying your lipstick to help it last longer.

Q: What if I have a different colored dress?

A: These makeup tips can still apply to other colored dresses, but just be sure to consider how the color of your dress will complement or clash with certain makeup shades.

Conclusion

Wearing a red dress is a fashion statement in itself, so it’s essential to select the right makeup to enhance your overall look. By considering your skin tone and undertones, creating a flawless base, and choosing the right shades for your eyes, lips, and cheeks, you can create a stunning makeup look that complements your red dress perfectly. So next time you’re getting dressed up in a red dress, remember these makeup tips to make your look pop!