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blue lipstick on dark skin by k is for kinky 1 rev
blue lipstick on dark skin by k is for kinky 2 rev
blue lipstick on dark skin by k is for kinky 3 rev
blue lipstick on dark skin by k is for kinky 1 rev
blue lipstick on dark skin by k is for kinky 2 rev
blue lipstick on dark skin by k is for kinky 3 rev

At first glance, in the tube, blue lipstick is easily ignored. Easily labeled gothic or “for crazy millennial kids who still shop at Hot Topic.” It’s not something a girl who fancies her classic reds and pinks and perfectly hued nudes who normally fall for. But we think blue lipstick is one of the bad boys of lip color. Not a true gothic color like black and not exactly safe enough like purple hues, blue is unforgiving in its aesthetic and calls for attention unrelentingly which is why blue lipstick on dark skin is a must. Let us explain why.

Blue is the base color in Ruby Woo (a cult favorite from us here to Tracee Ellis Ross and Rihanna) and that amazing NYX ‘Shocking Pink’ Matte Lipstick that Joy is wearing in this pink and purple makeup look. As a base color, blue warms tones so to that they are not too muted and blue balances brightness so that it’s not too sharp. On its own, blue plays well with many skin tones but on black skin and other dark skin tones, whether as the base in another color or alone, it really highlights the natural red and yellow undertones on warmer skin. That causes skin with these undertones to have a slight glow. If Morticia Adams had any undertones at all, she would be a fan of a blue lip and we all know how fly Morticia Adams is. Let’s not even get on the obvious Grace Jones inspiration.

We’re talking true blues here for those that aren’t afraid. In this case, Ari is wearing the MAC ‘Marine Ultra’ Paintstick. It’s a vivid marine blue and a very versatile stick that you can use for just about anything on your face; it’s pretty bad ass smoked out on your eyes and looks equally good on your lips. It’s definitely a must try. However, just because we suggested it, we’re not responsible for the strong urge to put on your highest pair of black leather stilettos and hop on a motorcycle that may come with. Just putting that out there.

The Face: Ari Rich. The Makeup: Lindsey Calloway. The Photography: Angel Jordan.

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