
[productsample/affiliatelinks] New York Times journalist, Rachel Felder, was given access to couture beauty archives in order to write this ode to the most iconic of cosmetics – the red lipstick.

It covers the history and political dynamics of the red lipstick – for example, the suffragette movement. Elizabeth Arden famously gave out red lipsticks to a passing march as a mark of women’s rights solidarity.

Citations of famous red lipstick wearers appear throughout the book – Diana Vreeland, Paloma Picasso and Marilyn Monroe to name a few – as well as some old formulas. If we go back to ancient China, for example, vermillion mixed with animal blood and animal fat gave a nicely wearable product, apparently!

If you love your lippies, I can’t see how you wouldn’t enjoy this brief meander through its past, present and future. It’s not a long read by any means, and best devoured when you have some time to yourself, preferably with a glass of bubbles beside you, wearing your best very red. At £18.99 it’s got coffee table class with a gold cover; a great girlfriend gift especially if you add in a lipstick from one of the brands mentioned – Guerlain, Revlon, Dior, Chanel – take your pick! It’s HERE.
Transparency Disclosure
All products are sent to me as samples from brands and agencies unless otherwise stated. Affiliate links may be used. Posts are not affiliate driven.
4 comments
It is one of the small tragedies of my life that I don’t suit red lipstick. I’m hoping to do a Doris Apfel and wear it every day when I’m 80.
Iris Apfel
I’m a bit late to the party. Just as everyone above has said with fear of the red. I tried again a few days ago, with a Lancome freeby. I think I’m finally of an age, having reached my 60s. As DH said ‘its now or never’ wish me well.
I DO wish you well! I am sure you look wonderful – if you find it a bit too much, you can mix it with some balm to take the pigment down a bit. x