Red Lipstick Myths Busted 💄

Why Pros Say Anyone Can Wear Red Lipstick

Ah, red lipstick. One of the most iconic beauty items of all time, yet it’s often misunderstood. Today, let’s debunk six red lipstick myths—and see how Ellis Faas - cited by Vogue Paris as “one of the most influential make-up artists of her time” - and her Human Colors philosophy might just lead you to your perfect shade. Plus, we spotlight famous women known for their signature red lip looks.

Human Colors: A Cate Blanchett Endorsement

Cate Blanchett, an Oscar-winning icon, nails the Ellis Faas vibe in InStyle (April 2010):

“In order to be striking, a lipstick must take your skin tone into account. The line of Ellis Faas is based on the colors that the body produces naturally. The important thing is finding the balance between the tone of your skin and the shades of makeup you choose.”

From the tawny peach of a freckle to the vivid red of our blood, Ellis Faas Human Colors reflect hues that naturally occur in all of us, so they tend to flatter a huge range of skin tones. It’s about harmonizing, not clashing, with your skin.

6 Red Lipstick Myths—Busted

Myth #1: “Red Lipstick Is Only for Special Occasions.”

Why People Believe It: Vivid red is often associated with glamorous events—holiday parties, weddings, or fancy dinners.

The Truth: A well-chosen red can be your daily go-to. In a sheer wash or a satin finish, red lips add instant polish to jeans-and-tee days or business-casual attire. Pair it with minimal eye makeup, and you’re ready to conquer the day—no special event required.

Myth #2: “Red Lipstick Doesn’t Suit My Skin Tone.”

Why People Believe It: People try a random red, hate it, and decide red simply “doesn’t work” for them.

The Truth: There’s a red for everyone. Ellis Faas’s Human Colours draw from natural tones like blood-red, universally flattering across a wide variety of skin tones. If one red doesn't pop, try a slightly different undertone (bluer, warmer, brick, berry) until you find one that brightens your face.

Myth #3: “Red Lipstick Makes You Look Too Dramatic or Overdone.”

Why People Believe It: Red is often linked to old Hollywood glamour, so many think wearing it automatically means full-on drama.

The Truth: You control the drama. For a subtle take, blot a little on with your fingertip to create a soft stain. Pair it with neutral eye makeup and a fresh face. Want drama? Go full-coverage and defined. Red adapts like that.

Myth #4: “Mature Women Can’t Wear Red Lipstick.”

Why People Believe It: A myth persists that bold shades will highlight wrinkles or appear harsh on older faces.

The Truth: A classic red brightens mature skin. Ellis Lips formulas are hydrating, avoiding the dry, feathered look. A subtle lip liner and a bit of concealer around the edges keeps the color crisp, and you don’t have to be a pro to make red lipstick work at any age.

Iris Apfel, here at 92 years young, still preferred red lipstick.

Myth #5: “Red Lipstick Is Too Hard to Pull Off.”

Why People Believe It: A red lip can seem intimidating, and not everyone trusts their application skills.

The Truth: Choose a forgiving formula—like a creamy or semi-sheer red. Swipe it on your lips and lightly press them together for an even finish. If you’re feeling cautious, dab the lipstick on with your fingertip for a soft, blurred effect. No fancy tools required, and modern applicators (like Ellis Faas’s pen design) makes it easy.

Myth #6: “Red Lipstick Isn’t Office Friendly.”

Why People Believe It: Some office environments lean conservative, and you might worry a bold shade might stand out too much.

The Truth: Neutral eyes, minimal blush, and red lips look polished and professional at work. Ellis Faas offers subtle to bold options to match your office vibe. The key is confidence—red lipstick can signal poise as much as style.

Famous Women Rocking a Signature Red Lip

Taylor Swift
- She practically wrote the modern playbook on the classic red lip. From country darling to pop legend, Taylor’s red lips are her signature.
Gwen Stefani
- Gwen’s platinum hair and bold red lips blend vintage pinup with edgy chic.
Marilyn Monroe
- The queen of red lips, Monroe’s signature matte red, with fluttery lashes and glowing skin, influenced generations of beauty looks.
Rihanna
- Rihanna loves bold hues. Red is her staple, and her Fenty Beauty line shows reds are versatile and hot.
Gina Lollobrigida & Sophia Loren
- These legendary Italian actresses showed the world the power of a sultry red lip in the ’50s and ’60s. Paired with winged eyeliner or artfully sculpted brows, their looks remain timeless inspirations for anyone seeking a touch of la dolce vita.

Ellis Faas: Cruelty-Free & Vegan-Friendly

Cruelty-Free: Ellis Faas proudly carries the PETA “cruelty-free” acknowledgment, with the cheeky slogan “Only Tested on Supermodels®.”
Mostly Vegan: Most products are vegan-friendly except for certain formulas containing beeswax (mascaras, Creamy Eyes) or carmine (specific lip shades: L101, L108, L201, L203, L205, L301). All Hot Lips, Eyeliners, Lights, foundations, Concealers, Blushes, Compact Powders, and Glow Ups are vegan.

Find Your Perfect Red

Red lipstick endures across eras, styles, and personal tastes for one simple reason—it looks (and feels) fabulous. Whether you’re channeling Taylor Swift’s classic bright lip or Marilyn Monroe’s sultry glamour, there’s likely an Ellis Faas red out there that’s perfect for you.

Ready to rock your own signature red? Explore the collection to find your ideal shade, and join the iconic women who’ve proven that a red lip is far from a myth—it’s a timeless staple that boosts your confidence any day of the week.

Embrace your own red lip moment, and you’ll see firsthand why this classic shade remains the ultimate statement—now, and for years to come.

Red Lipstick Myths—Why Pros Say Anyone Can Wear Red Lipstick