If you choose one item of make-up as your confidence powerhouse, let it be lipstick.
The effects of lipstick on a woman’s confidence cannot be exaggerated. Applying lipstick is the simplest way to feel put-together. Good lipstick (and other make-up) can also cause others to perceive you as more capable, according to this New York Times article.
To feel your most confident, you’ll want to find your perfect shades. You should have a good red in your arsenal, along with a more neutral shade and a darker shade with some shine.
Your best shades will compliment your skin’s undertone: warm, cool, or neutral. Take it from me; this part is important. I spent half of my life so far assuming I have warm undertones. Once I discovered I’m actually more cool, the right cool shade makes a world of difference (even if they are harder to find). I look for more blue-ish shades of red, and more purple-ish shades of pink and neutrals. I avoid orange tones.
Once you know your undertones, you can more easily find your most complimentary shades. You can start with articles like this one, but your best best will be to do some in-person shopping and ask for help. Utilize testers to try out shades in every lighting before making a full-size purchase.
Once you find the right shade, don’t forget a matching liner. It’ll keep your lipstick in place and provide a clean look.
Finally, be sure to find the right lipstick routine for your skin type. For me, I need to moisturize after applying liner and before applying lipstick. All-day formulas can be amazingly long-lasting, coffee after coffee, but if you’re susceptible to dryness, they can be maddening.
Once you find put together your lipstick arsenal, as Elizabeth Taylor famously said, “Put on some lipstick and pull yourself together.”