In celebration of VE day and remembering those who fought in WW2 I have been inspired to look back over the truly glam 1940s beauty looks. Even though the UK was heavily rationed and silk stockings were in very short supply, women of the 1940s really knew how to rock a red lippy. It was one of the limited colours available back then yet still looked amazing and created a fashion that is synonymous with this time period. And yet it is one of the makeup skills we have the biggest hangups with. We are constantly plaugued with what type of red to choose and if we are brave enough to wear it. My advice is try it. Its going to look amazing and red really draws the eye. A woman who wears a red lipstick is confiedent, sophistcated and knows it. She also knows that red lippy compliments practically any outfit. Here are some tips on wearing a fab red.

1. Pick your red! If you are fairer of skin pick a lighter more orangey red. If you are pink toned or have a tendancy to flush, stay away of pinky fuschia toned reds. Plumy reds look amazing on olive toned to warmer, deeper and richer skin tones.

2. Do your foundation properly. You cannot wear a red lipstick and have failed to conceal blemishes and any darkness under the eye. 1940s glamour also rocked the creamy pale skin tones, everything very neat and even.

3. Take extra care around the nose and chin. These areas get red easily and you will need to make sure they are properly concealed.

4. Pick a pretty blusher that gives you a natural pinky glow, not flushed red or coral.

5. You dont have to wear a lipliner but it helps to colour in any areas that you may have forgotten. Do this after you apply your lipstick.

6. For an ultra precise application use a lipbrush and slather your lips with balm if they are dry. This helps the lipstick to glide on.

7. The pointed cupids bow was a decade earlier than this look so keep them as natural as possible.

8. If you are unsure about a matte red, which will be very full pigment then perhaps pick a gloss or a sheer lip colour. It will give you the colour but not the heavey coverage.

9. Do not forget your eyes. It was black khol back then, the only shade available but it worked well. If it isnt broke dont fix it.

There are some awesome red lippys on the market but my top three are.

3. Chanel Rouge Allure in Passion

2. Mac Russian Red

1. Bobbi Brown Red No 10. Love it.

Have a go! xxxx