Chinese New Year
Image credit: Instagram/@meccacosmetica

With Chinese New Year mere days away, there’s no time like the present to find your signature shade of red lipstick. While it seems a simple endeavour, red lipsticks are in no short supply, meaning that choosing a signature can be confusing to say the least. Below, you’ll find an edit of eight editor-approved formulas, from deep ruby mattes to lighter, poppier cherry hues. Individual in appeal, but universally lucky. Gong xi fa cai!

Charlotte Tilbury Matte Revolution in Magic Red, $49. SHOP NOW

Matte but not chalky, this iconic Charlotte Tilbury formula has been reimagined for Lunar New Year, encased in a rich ruby red bullet. The lipstick itself is bold and vampy. Fit for a celebration indeed!

Chantecaille Lip Cristal in Carnelian, $74. SHOP NOW

A true red dipped in fine ruby glitter. What’s not festive about that? While it looks messy, it’s actually got a smooth, velvet finish with not even an inch of grittiness.

Mac Cosmetics Lunar Illusions Lipstick in Ruby Woo, $31. SHOP NOW

A classic for a reason, Ruby Woo is the perfect shade of true, glamorous red. The lunar packaging is here for a limited time only. Shu Uemura Rouge Unlimited Matte Lipstick in RD163, $43. SHOP NOW

If you prefer a punchy shade of orange-red, it’s got to be this electric Shu Uemura option. Perfect for those with olive or yellow-based skin, it’s equal parts festive and fresh. 

Gucci Rouge à Lèvres Satin in Goldie Red, $57. SHOP NOW

The perfect pairing of gold and red, Gucci has nailed the ultimate red luxury lipstick. It’s a true neutral tone, so works for all complexions, and has a satin finish that comfortably sits somewhere between matte and gloss. It’s lightweight, but has impressive staying power.

Bobbi Brown Luxe Lip Colour in rare Ruby, $56. SHOP NOW

If you prefer a slightly deeper, raspberry red try this limited Bobbi Brown option on for size. It’s supremely moisturising, making it great for dry lips. The blue-ish tint makes it ace for deeper skin tones, too.

Laura Mercier Rouge Essentiel Silky Creme Lipstick in Red Wish, $43. SHOP NOW 

Released specifically for Chinese New Year is a great all-pleasing, long lasting option. It’s hydrating so won’t bleed, but won’t wipe off in mere minutes either.

 

Burberry Kisses Lipstick in Military Red, $52. SHOP NOW

If it’s a low maintenance red you’re after, Burberry has it covered. This airy, easy-to-apply formula goes on slightly sheer, so you can leave as is or layer up to your desired depth. It’s a true red too, so will work against most skin tones.