The Red Lip Is Back: Bold, Bright, and Glamorous
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Bold, bright, and utterly glamorous, the red lip is reclaiming its crown as the ultimate beauty statement, embraced by British Millennials and Gen Z, according to a new poll.
New research confirms what beauty insiders have known known for a while – the red lip is seeing a resurgence in popularity with younger Britons – with a resounding 88 per cent of under 35s, claiming they have recently embraced the classic look, influenced by both celebrities (71 per cent) and TikTok make-up trends (65 per cent)
And it seems Taylor Swift is leading the way, with 29 per cent of those polled, voting the superstar as the most iconic, red lipstick wearing celebrity of all time, beaten ONLY by Marilyn Monroe, who picked up 44 per cent of the vote.
Other current stars to make the definitive list of 25 rouge-lipped icons, were Rihanna, Lola Young, Kylie Jenner, Emma Stone, and Gwen Stefani – as well as 1940s and 50s icons, Rita Hayworth, Grace Kelly, and Elizabeth Taylor.
In fact, seven in ten of the 2,000 18 – 35-year-olds surveyed, said they now prefer striking, dark shades like crimson or scarlet, over the muted nudes, browns, and clear glosses which dominated the nineties and noughties.
The study, conducted by insights and research agency Perspectus Global, found that 47 per cent of young women consider a red lip the ultimate fashion statement.
While one in five (21 per cent) say it makes them feel instantly sexier, and the same number claim it gives them a sense of empowerment.
For one in ten working women, a swipe of rouge before work is the perfect confidence boost, a modern “power move” in an era of bold self-expression.
Yet make-up artist to the stars, Liv Davey, says the allure of red lipstick is timeless. “Icons through the ages have modelled it. From black and white films of the 40s and 50s, to the modern day – the red lip never loses its appeal.
There’s something about the simplicity of a red lip which makes it so beautiful, seamless yet alluring. It brightens the complexion – a simple yet highly effective way to elevate a look. If you struggle to ace a Smokey eye, the red lip is an easy step to boost your makeup and bring the glamour without having to panic about any blend. If I’m having a bad day or I’m tired, bright red lipstick brings me back to life. It hides a multitude of sins and always keeps you looking fresh.
Jon Horsley, Head of Research at Perspectus Global, adds: “Our research suggests a shift among younger consumers. Millennials and Gen Z aren’t afraid of a bold look, and red lipstick ticks all the boxes. It’s fashion’s eternal power play. It’s the little black dress of make-up – endlessly adaptable, instantly transformative. It’s classic, confident, and instantly shareable. In an era of micro-trends and fast-changing aesthetics, the red lip stands out as a timeless anchor – a statement of identity rather than just another passing fad.”
When it comes to the most iconic wearers of all time, Marilyn Monroe tops the list with 44 per cent of the vote, followed by Taylor Swift, Rihanna, Elizabeth Taylor, and Debbie Harry.
The poll provides a definitive roll call of scarlet-lipped legends, proving that while trends may ebb and flow, the power of red endures.
THE 25 MOST ICONIC RED LIPSTICK WEARERS OF ALL TIME…
- Marilyn Monroe – 44%
- Taylor Swift – 29%
- Rihanna – 21%
- Lola Young – 20%
- Elizabeth Taylor – 20%
- Debbie Harry – 20%
- Madonna – 11%
- Angelina Jolie – 11%
- Julia Roberts – 9%
- Audrey Hepburn – 9%
- Dita Von Teese – 9%
- Lady Gaga – 8%
- Sophia Loren – 8%
- Scarlett Johansson – 8%
- Beyoncé – 7%
- Grace Kelly – 7%
- Gwen Stefani – 6%
- Rita Hayworth – 6%
- Margot Robbie – 5%
- Nicole Kidman – 5%
- Cindy Crawford – 4%
- Christina Aguilera – 3%
- Helena Christensen – 3%
- Kylie Jenner – 3%
- Emma Stone – 3%
- Courtney Love – 3%
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