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From the runway to the red carpet, makeup goes oh-so glamorously goth with opulent yet edgy shades of deep lipstick -- and it's high time you get in on the trend. If you have ebony skin -- a very dark brown complexion with green/olive undertones -- you need an extremely rich deep lip color that really pops against your naturally rich coloring. Opt for decadently deep shades with lush red, purple or chocolatey tones and velvety smooth textures.
1.
Pack a few baby wipes in your purse and then head to your local department store. A shade that looks dark in the lipstick tube may not pack enough punch on your ebony skin, so testing shades before you buy is key. Purchase your perfect dark lipstick at the department store if you have a few extra beauty bucks, or find your match and then select a similar shade at the drugstore if you’re on a beauty budget.
2.
Test dark lipstick shades on clean lips, preferably with a makeup-free face. Step outside and use a hand mirror to check prospective shades in natural light, if possible. Your perfect shade will show up on your lips with richness and intensity – without looking too “loud.”
3.
Opt for a deep lipstick with a creamy texture and a fully opaque finish. Stick with a matte or semi-gloss texture. Super-shiny plus deep color equals major overkill.
4.
Choose deep lipstick with rich reddish-brown tones for a classy, sophisticated style. Shades of wine, dark raisin and mahogany flatter ebony skin beautifully.
5.
Select a dark lip color with deep, cool purple tones for a look that’s equal parts elegant and edgy. Try shades of plum, dark berry or deep magenta. While many women can only dream of rocking these intense hues, you’ve got the complexion to pull it off.
6.
Channel your inner old-school bombshell with a deep, dark red shade. To complement your ebony skin, opt for a cooler-toned red and don’t be afraid to go super dark. Try burgundy, deep brick or dark crimson.
Don’t even think about swiping on dark lipstick straight from the tube. With color this intense, every tiny little mistake shows up – so applying with precision is an absolute must. Use a small lip brush to apply one coat of lipstick. Blot with tissue, then trace around your lips with a cotton swab dipped in sheer face powder. Apply a final coat of lipstick and -- voila — a perfect pout.
Unless you’re working the catwalk, you should never pair dark lips with smoky eyes or shimmery skin. Keep the look classy with matte foundation, black mascara and a simple hairdo.
