If you have a darker complexion, try venturing into the world of blue-based purples. Bonus: Colors on this part of the spectrum make your teeth look extra white.
Brownish reds are a fun way to go dark without looking too extreme or clownish, says Spyksma. Plus they're supertrendy at the moment (thanks, '90s revival).
This sultry, mahogany shade is ultra-flattering on fair skin tones. And we are obsessed with the patent finish. To ensure the most pigment, dab a touch of clear gloss, such as NYX Mega Shine Lip Gloss in Clear, $5, on top of your lipstick, focusing on the center of the bottom lip.
Allow a lipstick this dark to make its statement by keeping your eye makeup ultra-minimal. To ensure bold, long-lasting color, fill in your lips with a matching waterproof lip liner, such as Make Up For Ever Aqua Lip Waterproof Lipliner Pencil, $19, before following up with your lipstick. For a more dimensional look, go a little lighter on the color in the center of your bottom lip.
Remember when you were 16 years old? That night you swiped a six-pack from your parents and snuck out in the middle of the night to split it with your best friends? Remember how invincible you felt? That rebel still lives in you somewhere, and though it's no longer cute to engage in juvenile teenage behavior, we can all benefit from a little darkness here and there.
Our favorite way to unleash our inner badass is with vampy dark lips, of course. "Deep, plummy reds are definitely on trend this year and will keep coming," says Los Angeles makeup artist Brittany Spyksma. We're seeing plenty of purples, browns and blacks, as well.
A lot of women shy away from dark lips, staying firmly in the pink and nude zone. We get it; it's safe there. "But don't be afraid to try something new," Spyksma encourages. "If you don't think you can wear a dark lip, you just haven't found the right color." (We're here to change that.)
If you're afraid of looking too made up, try lightening up your eyes. A gentle flick of black eyeliner and mascara with a dark lip is simple and chic, says Spyksma.
Now, onto the lips. For all your dark lipstick inspo this winter, look no further this roundup of our favorite looks — ranked from most wearable to most badass.
