Follow our three stages to the perfect pout.
Step one: Be prepared
Before you start the search for your knockout statement shade, your lips need to be in good nick - a tough call for those suffering from chapped winter lips.
Max Factor's global creative director Pat McGrath says: "The secret to a polished and fabulous lipstick look is in smooth, well-moisturised lips."
Look for those with skincare properties, like Max Factor's new Colour Elixir Lipsticks or embark on a pout primping routine.
"A dramatic lipstick will make any flakes and dryness lines more noticeable, so make sure to pamper dry lips before application," Bobbi Brown advises.
You don't have to invest in a special lip scrub either if you'd rather spend the cash on your new power lippy.
"One of my favourite tricks is to smooth eye cream onto lips, and then use a toothbrush or a washcloth to gently exfoliate them," Brown suggests.
"Apply a little non-greasy lip balm afterward, and let it absorb before applying lipstick."
Step two: Shady lady
Choosing the correct lip colour is no mean feat. We all want the kind of head-turning shade that will prompt people to ask if you've had a makeover.
"The most important thing is to feel confident about the shade you've chosen. If you don't feel comfortable in it, your self-consciousness will likely show," says Brown.
The darker your lip tone, the deeper the shade you can pull off, she explains.
Red statement lips are one of the hottest accessories of the season and you can't beat classic ruby for Christmas time.
"If your lips are pale, a bright red lip is a great option," according to Brown.
For mid-toned lips, forget the baby pinks and fuchsias and look to jewel tone magentas and raspberries, which make a real statement, especially when paired with black or navy outfits.
Dark lips can handle on-trend berry shades like deep reds and raisin. While women with two-toned lips should opt for a deep plum.
Step three: Pump it up
It's possible to add even more drama to an already powerful lip colour, according to the experts.
McGrath recommends adding a slick of gloss "for high-glamour shine and texture".
The reflective element will draw attention to your lips and make them look fuller.
But just as over-accessorising can ruin an outfit, too many make-up elements can detract from the main focus. Ensure your lips do all the talking by keeping them as the main feature.
New CID's international make-up artist, Mikey Phillips, says: "When wearing lipstick you should always play down your eye make-up to ensure the look is well balanced.
"Apply lipstick with a brush for longer wear, press the lips together to flatten out the colour and then re-apply for more depth of colour."
- AAP
