Dolce & Gabbana’s new collection of red lipsticks couldn’t have come at a better time. As July 29 marks National Lipstick day we celebrate the enduring appeal of the crimson pout and look to eight icons to help you find your signature shade.
Marilyn Monroe (pictured above)
Heart – A classic beauty, this strong, timeless red is as perennial as Marilyn’s endless appeal. Those wide eyes aren’t fooling anyone, though…
“Red lipstick is empowering” – Massimiliano Della Maggesa, Dolce & Gabbana make-up artist.
Louise Brooks
Louise Brooks
Inferno — Inferno by name as well as by nature, this deeply rebellious burgundy is not for the faint-hearted. In fact, this vampy shade perfectly represents Louise Brooks and her renegade ways.
Audrey Hepburn
Audrey Hepburn
Fire – A poppy red whose vibrant heart is chic, but nevertheless girlish with a touch of innocence. Think Audrey Hepburn in Funny Face.
“You can sculpt thin lips to look fuller using a lip pencil on the edges” – Massimiliano Della Maggesa
Rita Hayworth
Rita Hayworth
Desire – Rita Hayworth is the seductress that charmed every man in her sight. One slick of the mysterious berry tone and you’re transformed into a femme fatale to rival her iconic role as the ultimate coquette Gilda.
Sophia Loren
Sophia Loren
Passion – As full bodied as Sophia Loren herself, this siren red encapsulates the va-va-voom of Italian fire.
“Think about your complexion and type of smile when choosing your lipstick. Experimenting is fun, but you have to respect your natural look” – Massimiliano Della Maggesa
Debbie Harry
Flirt — Who says punky can’t also be pretty? Blondie’s Debbie Harry is testament to that — all wild, bleached hair, killer cheekbones and punchy, vixen pout.
Madonna
Madonna
Lover – There’s no red like an 80s red, and there’s no one quite like Madonna (circa Desperately Seeking Susan) to be the ambassador for it. Audacious, with a tinge of pink, it cannot be ignored.
“Generally matte lipsticks are hard to apply but these formulas are moisturising and comfortable” – Massimiliano Della Maggesa
Elizabeth Taylor
Liz Taylor
Ruby – The beautiful enigma that was Liz Taylor – dramatic, assured and the epitome of glamour itself – is manifest in this rich ruby red. A jewel-tone that would’ve been guaranteed to bring out her famous emerald eyes.
“If you want perfection, then apply with a brush” – Massimiliano Della Maggesa
Dolce & Gabbana Dolce Matte lipsticks Dhs160.07 each available at Paris Gallery, Sephora and Harvey Nichols-Dubai
Images: Getty, Corbis and Shutterstock
