Every now and then beauty trends take an unexpected turn - and two-tone lips can be pigeonholed as one of the more off-beat. Another throwback to the ’90s, this is a look that, with a few tweaks, has been ‘in’ and then ‘out’ of fashion for more than three decades. Right now, it’s definitely ‘in’.
Just as makeup lovers were embracing lip oils and a resurgence in flavoured glosses, even more pout-worthy products were thrown into the mix. Back from the brink is the humble lip pencil - now boasting soft, creamy formulas with more pigment varieties. Some are so silky smooth, they can be used as an alternative to lipstick or as a light base under gloss. By bending the trend to two-tone lips, brands have given consumers a big nudge towards doubling up purchases.
This daring and versatile look involves using two different lipstick, gloss or pencil shades on the lips, offering a fresh blast of inspiration for self-expression.
Gone are the days of sticking to a single lip colour. The current trend encourages experimentation and allows individuals to develop a unique style. Whether you opt for a subtle ombre effect or a bold contrast between shades, this look is 100 per cent going to make a statement.
How to rock two-tone lips
Want to look relevant but not go too over the top? Why not try crafting a gradient lip look?
It’s simple to achieve and you can mix and match lipstick and pencil shade ranges from subtle nudes to eye-popping pinks and beyond. Apply a darker shade to the outer edges of the lips and gradually blend it into a lighter colour towards the centre. The result is a soft, dreamy look that adds dimension to the lips. You can start with a pencil and then add lipstick if you want to better define the shape of the lips.
Back in the day, the easiest way to achieve a gradient look was to pop a light shimmer in the centre of the lip. If time is against you, it’s still worth trying.
For a more dramatic two-tone effect, use contrasting colours, such as a bright red on the top lip and a deep purple on the bottom. Really good combinations include nude and pink and nude and peach.
Another approach to the two-tone trend is to apply two different colours to each lip. This method is perfect for those who want to make a bold fashion statement. Complementary shades, such as pink and orange or red and burgundy, can create a harmonious look, while contrasting colours, like blue and orange, can be a daring choice for those who aren't afraid to push boundaries.
Want to be subtle? How about adding a tinted gloss over lipstick?
The two-tone lip trend is incredibly versatile and can be adapted to suit any occasion. For a daytime look, opt for soft, muted shades. For a night out, go bold with vibrant colours. This trend also works well with different makeup styles, from natural to glam.
Here are some at-a-glance application techniques that you may want to try:
Ombre lip effect
Base: Apply a light shade evenly across your lips.
Gradient: Using a lip brush, apply a darker shade to the outer corners and cupid’s bow, gradually blending inwards for a seamless transition.
Colour block lips
Define: The easiest way to give your lips definition is to use a liner. Use a pencil to create your preferred shape.
Apply: Fill in the upper lip with one shade and the lower lip with another. For a softer look, slightly blur the lines with a brush.
Inner rim lip highlight
Base: Apply your main lip colour.
Highlight: Using a lip liner or a lighter shade of lipstick, line the inner part of your lips to create an elegant, soft contrast.
Get your lips ready for a two-tone look
To achieve a flawless two-tone lip, it's essential to prepare your lips properly.
Exfoliate your lips to remove dead skin cells and apply a lip balm to hydrate them. PLouise’s Juicy Drip lip kit includes everything you need to keep your pout smooth and hydrated. Revolution also stocks lip kits. Don’t want to splash out? Gently scrub your lips with a small amount of sugar, rinse and finish off with a lip balm.
Using a lip liner can help prevent colour bleeding. I recommend pencils by Beauty Bay and PLouise.
With a little practice, anyone can master the art of the two-tone lip and create a stunning look that reflects personal style.
Whether you're a seasoned makeup artist or a beauty beginner, the two-tone lip trend offers endless opportunities for experimentation and self-expression. Embrace your creativity, have fun with colour and let your lips become the focal point of your look.
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