Up until recently, when I was about to head out to a date that could potentially end in some kissing, I would always play up my eyes rather than my lips. I always thought that anything other than a natural nude would make my date hesitate. I mean, who would want red lipstick smeared all over their face?
After being exposed to all the variations of lipstick the beauty industry had to offer, however, I realized that there were a few things that mattered more than color. The first was a technique I like to do even outside of a date: dabbing your lipstick instead of straightforwardly painting it on for a natural, blurred effect. Another thing I realized was that rather than reaching for something that says long-lasting, take a look at its other qualities. If your lipstick is moisturizing and fades nicely throughout the day, then you’ve got yourself a winner. Here are five lipsticks that always deliver, no matter what kind of date:
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1. Shiseido VisionAiry Gel Lipstick
This is the first on my list because I wore it (specifically, the deep rose called Night Rose) on my most recent date, and was impressed with how nicely it faded throughout the night. There were no traces on it on my fork, on the few glasses of alcohol that I consumed, and even on my date’s lips later on. It’s really the texture that makes it one of my favorite lipsticks of all time–wet and gel-like at first then after a minute, it magically transforms into a matte.
2. Clarins Water Lip Stain
Another type of lip product that I would opt for is a lip stain, as it is weightless and comfortable, and you often forget that you have anything on. This fade-proof product from Clarins is flexible, depending on your mood–whether you want a subtle stain that is enough to get the attention of the person in front of you or a more loud color.
3. Dior Addict Lip Tattoo
If you want something else that will carry the same intensity throughout the day, apply the long-lasting Dior Addict Lip Tattoo. With a variety of natural shades that end in a luminous finish, you will surely find one that will soon be a first-date staple. Whether you end up kissing the object of your affection or not, you’ll still walk away with a smile on your face.
4. Glossier Generation G
For something a little more sheer and subtle, try Glossier’s Generation G. Described as having a dialed-down pigment in natural shades, the matte lipstick is perfect for that effortless look. After all, who wants to look like they’re trying to hard on a first date?
5. Charlotte Tilbury Matte Revolution
Whether one is looking forward to kissing or no kissing that day, this product is something many of my girlfriends carry in their makeup bags, and it’s easy to see why. Upon application, the lipstick glides on smoothly and leaves a soft, velvet matte finish that doesn’t dry. With something this easy to apply, it is perfect for those of you who are always in a hurry.
