Holiday Trends & Gift Guide 2008

“A deep crimson lip is popular at holiday parties because it is a classic, easy way to spice up the little black cocktail dress,” says makeup artist Alexis Swain. “Crimson is just as much of a statement, and just as sexy as red but calls for a little less attention, a little more mystery.” If you’re on the pale side, this dark shade can look a little vampy, says Swain: “So try a shade with a little more berry coloring to warm up fair skin.” Apply several coats, blotting with a tissue in between, to get long-lasting color like Queen Latifah, who created this intense shade for CoverGirl.

Queen Collection Shine Vibrant Hues Lipstick in Choco-lotta, CoverGirl $5.60; buy online now at drugstore.com.