Bold and Beautiful: How Bold Lips Are Taking Over 2024’s Beauty Trends

As we step further into 2024, one of the most striking beauty trends capturing the attention of fashionistas and celebrities alike is the resurgence of bold lip colors. 

From the runways of Paris to the pages of top beauty magazines, bold lips are proving to be a defining trend of the year, merging classic glamor with modern boldness.

The Return of the Iconic Red

The classic red lip has always been a symbol of power and sophistication. 

This year, it has made a massive comeback, with variations ranging from the bright candy apple to deeper, more sultry crimsons. Makeup artists are not just sticking to one texture or finish either; matte, gloss, and satin finishes are all part of the trend, each offering a different way to make a statement. 

The versatility of red allows it to be a staple for both daytime professional settings and glamorous evening events.

Beyond Red: Exploring a Spectrum of Bold Shades

While red will always have its place, 2024 is also about exploring less traditional lip colors. Shades of bold violet, deep blue, and even metallic tones are seen across various beauty campaigns and social media platforms. 

These colors might not be for the faint-hearted but are perfect for those looking to make a head-turning statement. 

For instance, influencers and makeup artists showcase these vibrant hues in creative ways, often pairing them with minimal makeup elsewhere to keep the focus on the lips.

Techniques and Textures

This year’s trend isn’t just about color but also about how these colors are applied. 

Ombre lips, blurred edges, and even a slight overline are popular techniques that add an extra dimension to the bold lip look. 

Additionally, the finish of the lipstick plays a significant role; while matte lips continue to be a favorite for their longevity, glossy lips are making a comeback, providing a juicy, vibrant look that’s perfect for warmer seasons.

Layering and Mixing: 

One popular technique is the mixing of shades to create unique, custom colors. Makeup artists often layer different lipsticks to achieve depth and dimension that a single shade cannot provide. 

For instance, a dark purple base might be topped with a shimmering gloss to add a reflective quality, or a bright red might be muted with a brown tone to warm it up for autumnal looks.

The Blurred Lip: 

A departure from the sharp-edged, perfectly lined lips of past years, the blurred or diffused lip edge is gaining popularity. 

This technique involves softly blending the lipstick at the edges, creating a more casual, effortless look. It’s particularly popular in Korea and Japan, where softer beauty aesthetics often prevail. 

This style pairs well with lighter, airier makeup on the rest of the face, emphasizing a youthful, modern vibe.

While matte lips have dominated for years due to their long wear time and intense pigment, glosses are making a significant comeback. 

The glossy look not only adds a voluminous, hydrating feel to the lips but also reflects light, making the lips appear fuller and more plump. 

This texture is perfect for those looking to add a touch of glamor to their everyday look or for special occasions where a more striking appearance is desired.

Metallic and Satin Finishes: 

Apart from matte and glossy finishes, metallic and satin finishes are carving out their niche. Metallic lips can offer a futuristic look with an extra sparkle, ideal for evening events or fashion-forward outfits. 

On the other hand, satin finishes strike a balance between matte and gloss, offering a slight sheen without the high shine of a gloss. This finish is versatile and can be worn in almost any setting.

Cultural and Celebrity Influence

Celebrities and influencers are significant drivers of this trend. Stars spotted with bold lip colors at major award shows and events have set social media buzzing, inspiring a slew of tutorials and get-the-look videos. 

Brands are quick to capitalize on this trend, collaborating with celebrities to release limited edition shades that promise to deliver the same star-quality pout.

Product Highlights

In terms of products, brands like Pat McGrath Labs and MAC Cosmetics are at the forefront, offering a range of shades that cater to this trend. Pat McGrath’s MatteTrance lipsticks are particularly noted for their intense pigment and comfort wear. 

Meanwhile, MAC’s latest releases provide both the classic shades and experimental colors that cater to every skin tone and personal style preference.

How To Apply

Step 1: Prep Your Lips

To ensure a smooth application, start by exfoliating your lips. You can use a lip scrub or a soft toothbrush to gently buff away any dead skin. After exfoliating, apply a hydrating lip balm to moisturize your lips and let it absorb for a few minutes. This step helps to create a smooth canvas for your lipstick.

Step 2: Use a Lip Primer

A lip primer is not always necessary, but it can help to enhance the color and longevity of your lipstick. It prevents the lipstick from feathering, especially important for bold and dark shades. Apply a thin layer of primer over your lips.

Step 3: Outline with Lip Liner

Choose a lip liner that matches your lipstick shade. Carefully outline your lips starting from the cupid’s bow and work your way towards the corners. 

For a fuller look, you can slightly overline your lips, but keep it subtle to maintain a natural appearance. Fill in the entire lip area with the liner to help the lipstick last longer and to prevent it from fading unevenly.

Step 4: Apply Lipstick

Apply your chosen bold lipstick starting at the center of your lips and blending it towards the edges. For precision, use a lip brush, especially if you are working with very dark or vibrant colors. 

A brush helps to distribute the product evenly and allows for more control around the edges.

Step 5: Clean Up and Perfect

After applying the lipstick, you might need to clean up the edges for a crisp look. Take a small concealer brush dipped in concealer or foundation and trace around your lips to correct any mistakes and define the lip line. 

This step also helps to highlight the lips, making them stand out even more.

Step 6: Add Gloss (Optional)

If you prefer a glossy finish, apply a clear or matching tinted lip gloss over your lipstick. This step is optional but adds an extra dimension to your lips and gives a luxurious, shiny finish.

Step 7: Set with Powder (Optional)

For an ultra-matte finish and to ensure the longevity of your lipstick, you can blot your lips with a tissue and lightly dust translucent powder over them. This step should be done cautiously to avoid altering the lipstick’s color and texture.

These steps can help you achieve a flawless bold lip that’s perfect for any event or just to feel fabulous in your day-to-day life. Remember, bold lips are all about confidence, so wear your chosen shade proudly!

In conclusion, as bold lips dominate the beauty trends of 2024, they offer more than just a splash of color. They are a statement of confidence and style, a nod to the past, and a bold step into the future of fashion. Whether you’re a fan of the classic red or the adventurous blue, there’s no better time to embrace the bold and beautiful in your makeup routine.