Rapturous in red: Luxe lipsticks that dazzle

Summon the image of Marilyn Monroe in Some Like It Hot, or Uma Thurman in Pulp Fiction. Perhaps even Tim Curry, in The Rocky Horror Picture Show. What do they have in common? It's timeless — the power of red lips. With the cherry hues of Valentine's Day seeping into our lives already, it's time to look at some of the most exquisite red lipsticks available in India (in stores/online).

Fenty Beauty by Rihanna, Stunna Lip Paint Longwear Fluid Lipcolour

Positioned as the ‘universal red’ “obsessively tested” to look stunning on every skin tone, the Stunna Lip Paint has been praised for complementing the unique aesthetics of different complexions. Radical, considering that style hunters are frequently discouraged by the “red lips are not for everyone” myth. Highly pigmented, with a lasting power touted to see you through feasts and kisses, its slightly watery consistency can be excused for the love of the colour, which explores the magic realm between bright and dark red. (Rs10,513 on amazon.in)

Guerlain Rouge G Jewel Lipstick Compact, Garconne

A classic, classic red — that's really the only way to describe Garconne. Yet in no way is it uninspiring. To the contrary, it offers the stellar combination of ruby powder for radiance, hyaluronic acid spheres for perfectly smoothed lips and wild mango butter for lasting hydration. Tiger grass and guggul resin amp up the pampering your lips receive, every time you don this beautiful blend of 'warm' and 'cool' (leaning towards cool). Expect intensely coloured, plumped-up lips that need not fear bleeding. (Rs 8,801 on amazon.in)

By Terry Rouge-Expert Click Stick Hybrid Lipstick, My Red

From former Yves Saint Laurent Beauté Creative Director Terry de Gunzburg's luxury line By Terry, My Red is a regret-proof pick from the bounty of rich reds introduced in the click stick range. Known as the 'three-in-one' lip colour with a 'drop tip' shape meant to perfect your cupid's bow (Au revoir, lip liners!) progressive packaging is only a part of My Red's allure. With a supple-on-skin velvet matte finish, there's something inherently lady-like about this red. Its ingredients include copolymers and vitamins, for the lush nourishment your skin deserves. (Rs 6,125 on amazon.in)

Bobbi Brown Luxe Lip Colour, Retro Red

Described as 'blue red', Retro boasts of some of the most compatible cool undertones and a rich, creamy consistency that lends itself to the final silken sheen. The shade can be treated as a pin-up red, scented with old Hollywood glamour. The formula feels oh-so-light on your lips, and reduces the appearance of lip lines and lip flaking. What's not to worship?
(Rs 3,300 in stores)

Christian Dior Diorific, Dolce Vita

‘Ferrari red’ would be an appropriate description for this vibrant, bold, orange-based red (with a hint of blue), reminiscent of all things indulgent. Chanelling signature Dior glamour in its jewel-style gold case, this colour is all fire and fiesta, popular for not feathering or bleeding. If you're skeptical, have faith in Daniel Martin, (celebrity make-up master to the likes of Jessica Alba and Bella Hadid) who swears by its lasting power. (Rs 2,800 in stores)