Reddy For Fall

Last fall I was a blushing bride who was all about the Old Hollywood look, replete with bright red lips courtesy of the classic M.A.C red shade Russian Red. But this year, maybe because I'm pregnant, I'm feeling wine-deprived, so I'm opting for darker, bordeaux-inspired lips. I started by switching up my M.A.C shade to Desire, but that was almost too purple-y, so I set out to find something with a bit more ruby in it to complement a brand-new pair of frames. I think I found it!

Let me introduce you to Revlon ColorStay in Divine Port Wine. This creamy, shiny, supple formula is built to last, the shade is gorgeous and it doesn't wash out my pale complexion. Like that search for the perfect pair of jeans, I won't say it's THE shade, but it's pretty darn close to what I envisioned. Plus, it comes close to my discontinued fave, mark gleamstick (pictured above center).

As you know, I'm a mark lover, so let me also recommend something for days when you don't want to feel so made-up ... Totally Balmed SPF 15 Tinted Lip Balm in Totally Hot. The balm looks like a brownish purple in the tube, but is a flattering sheer wash of bordeaux ... without the hangover.