Why red lipstick is the perfect cure for a bad day

Being a makeup artist for more than-- ahem -- 25 years now, I have learned there is undeniable power in using cosmetics to our advantage. All women -- and, yes, I do mean all, even the most gorgeous and glamorous -- have bad days. We didn't get enough sleep, we had too much soy sauce with our sushi, it's that time of the month, we just simply woke up on the wrong side of the bed -- it happens! It's normal, and it's something we as woman have to learn to deal with. Luckily we have the amazing help of our trusty lipstick drawer. I am not joking when I say a swipe of the right color can uplift and change your mood in an instant!

The next time you wake up and feel less than your best self, I want to encourage you to dig out your favorite red lipstick. Don't get nervous. I can hear you now: "RED? No way, I have to go the office, I am only going to the grocery store, I have a meeting at school, I can't wear red it's too..." What? Bold? Brave? Strong? Yes, it is all those things, and that's exactly why I want you to wear it.

See photos of celebs who rock bold lipsticks:

There is something magical that happens when we wear red on the lips. It gives off an instant vibe of confidence. Red lipstick is the ideal tool to help facilitate a level of self-belief and -assurance -- even if it doesn't really feel like it's there. Oh, you don't know how to wear red lipstick? That's where I come in!

Wearing red lipstick is easy, because the bold color will be the star of your look that day. Keep everything else super clean and modern. Get your skin looking the way you like it, by that I mean, apply your tinted moisturizer or foundation as you would any day. Always apply a touch of color to the cheeks to achieve a healthy glow. Then keep the eyes really simple. Maybe it's just a stroke of mascara, or maybe not even. Let your lips be the focus. I guarantee you will be surprised at how great you feel. (It almost works like a shield -- kind of like a coat of beauty armor). Now get out there, ladies, and show 'em how it's done.

Here are a few of my favorites:
- Beauty Is Life in Hot Red #16W: This is a fabulous bright orange lip color appropriately called Hot Red. The formula is very creamy and feels super luxurious on the lips.
- Laura Mercier Paint Wash Liquid Lip Colour in Vermillion Red:This is your classic blue-undertoned red color. This formula lasts all day, which is great because it means very little maintenance to keep your lips looking on point.
- Revlon Colorburst Matte Balm in Standout: This shade offers a deeper berry red, giving a little more drama and less pop. The application is amazingly smooth and the formula feels amazing on the lips.

Check out the video below for more tips on how to wear red lipstick!