The power of a perfectly applied lip has long been recognized as a potent form of self-expression and a confidence booster. From historical figures who used bold lip colors to make a statement of defiance and strength, to modern-day trailblazers who rely on their signature shades to navigate demanding careers and public lives, the lipstick has evolved from a mere cosmetic to a symbol of personal empowerment. This article delves into the distinct lip choices of twelve influential women, exploring the personal significance behind their preferred products and how these choices empower them in their daily lives, whether on a global stage or in a virtual meeting.
A Legacy of Boldness: The Historical Context of the Power Lip
Throughout history, women have utilized makeup, and particularly lip color, as a tool for asserting their identity and projecting confidence. Iconic figures like Marilyn Monroe, whose vibrant red lips became synonymous with glamour and allure, and Taylor Swift, whose modern take on red lipstick continues to captivate, exemplify the enduring association between a distinct lip look and a powerful persona. Grace Jones, with her avant-garde metallic fuchsia lips, further pushed the boundaries of self-expression, demonstrating that a bold lip can be a canvas for artistic individuality.
The historical significance of red lipstick, in particular, cannot be overstated. It has been widely recognized as a symbol of resistance and strength for women. A notable instance occurred in 1912 when suffragettes marched for women’s rights in New York City, defiantly wearing Elizabeth Arden’s Venetian Lip Paste. This act was not merely about aesthetics; it was a deliberate visual statement of their grit, determination, and unwavering commitment to achieving political equality. This historical precedent underscores the deep-rooted connection between bold lip color and female empowerment, a connection that continues to resonate today.
Empowerment Through Application: Modern Icons and Their Chosen Shades
In contemporary society, a well-chosen lip color can still provide a crucial sense of strength and confidence, even when a woman might not feel entirely fearless or put-together. Recognizing this, we consulted with twelve powerful women from diverse fields – including an Olympic athlete, a politician, a fashion stylist to the stars, and entrepreneurs – to understand their go-to lip products, the journeys that led them to these choices, and the specific reasons why a particular combination provides them with a confidence boost. Their insights offer a compelling glimpse into how makeup serves as a strategic tool for self-assurance in their demanding professional and personal lives.
Colette Laxton, Founder of The Inkey List: The Bold and Creamy Statement
Colette Laxton, the visionary behind the highly successful skincare brand The Inkey List, attributes her signature look to a potent yet comfortable orange-red lipstick. "It needs to be strong and solid, but creamy and easy to wear," she states. For Laxton, a few swipes of La Bouche Rouge lipstick in the shade ‘La Folie’ are all it takes to feel "ready to take on the world!" This choice reflects a desire for a lip color that is both impactful and practical, allowing her to project an image of strength and readiness without compromising on comfort. The blend of "strong and solid" with "creamy and easy to wear" suggests a preference for a formula that offers lasting power and vibrant pigment while remaining comfortable throughout a busy day of entrepreneurial endeavors.
Ali Truwit, Paralympic Swimmer: The Natural Enhancement for Performance
For American Paralympic swimmer Ali Truwit, confidence lies in enhancing her natural lip color with a subtle yet effective combination of liner and gloss. Her routine prioritizes lip health and comfort, especially crucial for athletes who may experience environmental stressors. "I apply Aveeno Skin Relief Healing Ointment during my skin prep to make sure my lips are not chapped or dry, especially during East Coast winters," she explains. This foundational step ensures her lips are in optimal condition before any color is applied. Truwit then meticulously lines her lips with a rosy beige pencil, opting between the Rhode Peptide Lip Pencil in ‘Lunge’ and the L’Oreal Paris Colour Riche Lip Liner Pencil in ‘Worth It.’ This precise lining creates a defined and sculpted pout. Finally, she finishes the look with a light pink gloss, such as the Eadem Le Chouchou Peptide Lip Balm in ‘Guava Fresca.’ This multi-step process, focusing on both hydration and definition, allows her to feel polished and ready to compete, translating into a quiet confidence that supports her athletic performance.
Ayesha Curry, Founder of Sweet July: The Effortless Statement of Brown Tones
Ayesha Curry, the dynamic founder of Sweet July, finds her confidence in a sophisticated brown lip combination that projects both presence and an air of effortless chic. "It makes a statement while looking effortless," she remarks about her preferred look. Curry’s approach begins with carefully defining her lips using the One/Size by Patrick Starrr Lip Snatcher Liner in ‘Rent Due,’ a soft brown matte shade that provides a beautiful pout. She then layers this with her limited-edition Sweet July Lip Treatment in ‘Rum Cake,’ a caramel-tinted gloss. "The liner gives me a nice pout and the lip treatment keeps them glossy and luscious," she elaborates. This combination is her go-to for significant occasions, whether it’s a romantic date night or an important business meeting, highlighting how a well-executed neutral lip can command attention and convey self-assuredness. The duality of a statement-making yet effortless appearance is a testament to her refined personal style.
Ilhan Omar, U.S. Representative for Minnesota’s 5th Congressional District: The Subtle Pop of Color
U.S. Representative Ilhan Omar, a pioneering figure in American politics, embodies the spirit of a trailblazer. Her approach to makeup, particularly her lip choice, reflects a preference for understated elegance that complements her poised demeanor. "The Revlon Super Lustrous Lipstick in 477 Black Cherry—a rich plum lipstick with a satin finish—gives her a boost in any situation," she states. This shade is described as being "closest to my natural lip, and it gives my lips a pop of color." Omar’s sentiment, "I didn’t grow up wearing lipstick and still prefer a more understated look, so this is the shade I feel most comfortable with in a natural way," reveals a deep personal connection to her chosen color. It signifies a comfort with her authentic self, enhanced by a subtle enhancement that boosts her confidence without feeling artificial, a crucial element for someone constantly in the public eye. The choice of a satin finish suggests a desire for a sophisticated and comfortable wear.
Sade Mims, Founder of Edas: The Bossy Confidence of Minimalist Glamour
Sade Mims, the creative force behind the accessories brand Edas, masterfully balances cool sophistication with approachability, and her lip choice plays a significant role in this. While her fashion-forward outfits often capture initial attention, Mims reveals that a specific lip combination is her secret weapon for feeling in charge. "When I want to feel bossy and confident, I lean toward a less-is-more approach," she explains. Her signature look involves accentuating her full lips with the Urban Decay 24/7 Glide-On Waterproof Lip Liner in ‘Hidden Truth,’ a dark, defining shade. This is followed by a touch of shimmering gloss, the Eadem Le Chouchou Lip Balm in ‘Bissap,’ adding a hint of luminous shine. Occasionally, for added depth, she incorporates the Prada Monochrome Soft Matte Blur Lipstick in ‘Auburn’ before applying the gloss. Mims articulates the profound impact of this routine: "This lip combo is the one thing I can put on that instantly makes me feel put-together, even if I’m wearing no other makeup. It makes me feel my best." This statement highlights the transformative power of a perfected lip, serving as an instant confidence amplifier.
Shiona Turini, Stylist and Costume Designer: The Natural Pop for Assertiveness
Shiona Turini, the renowned stylist behind iconic looks in television shows like Insecure and major tours such as Beyoncé’s Cowboy Carter, possesses an impeccable eye for both fashion and beauty. While she may not always wear a full lip during her intensive workdays, Turini has a go-to combination for when she needs to project assertiveness and feel her best. "A natural lip with a little pop," is her mantra. She credits makeup artist Vincent Oquendo for reigniting her love for lip liner. Her current power combination involves Make Up Forever’s Lip Liner in ‘Limitless Brown’ expertly paired with Hourglass Unreal High Shine Volumizing Gloss in ‘Halo.’ "And wow, you couldn’t tell me anything that day," she exclaims, recalling the first time she wore this duo. This combination has since become her reliable choice for moments requiring confidence and self-assurance, embodying her broader stylistic philosophy of balancing ease with intention.
Telsha Anderson-Boone, Creative Consultant and Stylist: The Subtly Glossy Foundation
Telsha Anderson-Boone, a style influencer whose aspirational mood boards are frequently admired, is known for her effortlessly polished aesthetic. As she navigates the bustling streets of New York City, her understated yet impactful makeup, particularly her subtly glossy lip, plays a crucial supporting role in her overall presence. Her minimal makeup routine is built upon a foundation of subtle definition and hydration. Anderson-Boone begins by lining her lips with the Merit Sheer Lip Liner in ‘Warm Peach Brown,’ a shade that provides soft definition without appearing harsh. She then layers this with the Eadem Lip Gloss in ‘Butter Mochi,’ a product that imparts a gentle sheen and a touch of moisture. This combination creates a polished yet natural look that complements her chic style and allows her to move through her busy day with an air of confidence.
Katie Jane Hughes, Makeup Artist and Founder of KJH.brand: The Beauty Boss’s Power Lip
When Katie Jane Hughes, a respected makeup artist and the founder of KJH.brand, shares her beauty insights, the industry takes notice. Her personal power lip is a meticulously crafted combination designed to make her feel like the ultimate beauty boss. The look begins with the Make Up For Ever Color Pencil in ‘Endless Cacao,’ a shade that provides a beautiful base. She then layers this with her brand’s KJH.brand Prism Lite Lip Crayon in ‘Mirage.’ "This combo makes me feel beautiful," she states. "I reach for it whenever I just need to be ‘on’ and feel strong, like the best version of me." This carefully curated duo exemplifies how a makeup artist translates their professional expertise into a personal ritual that enhances their self-perception and empowers them to face any challenge.
Sabrina Elba, Founder of S’Able Labs: The ’90s-Inspired Polished Neutral
Sabrina Elba, founder of S’Able Labs, draws inspiration from the iconic ’90s for her signature lip combo. Her approach is about sculpting and defining, creating a polished and versatile neutral hue. She initiates her look by meticulously sculpting her lips with the m.ph by Mary Phillips Overliner Lip Pencil in ‘Double Shot,’ a neutral dark brown that expertly defines her lip shape. She then fills in her lips with the Sunnies Face Fluffmatte Lipstick in ‘Brunette,’ a rich, warm brown with a velvety finish that provides a soft, diffused color. Elba then seals this sophisticated look with her own brand’s S’Able Labs Moringa Lip Salve in ‘Sisterwife,’ which adds a warm brown sheen and essential hydration. The result is a sophisticated, goes-with-everything neutral that enhances her features without overpowering them, a testament to her refined and confident aesthetic.
Suni Lee, Olympic Gymnast: The Toasty Brown Tint for Performance and Polish
Olympic gymnast Suni Lee maintains a signature lip look that is both simple and impactful, a reflection of her disciplined approach to her sport and her personal style. Her method involves precise application of Make Up For Ever pencils. She begins by lining the outer edges of her lips with the Artist Color Pencil Extreme in ‘Where Walnut,’ a waterproof pencil that provides excellent definition. For the center of her lips, she uses the original lip pencil from the same line, employing it as a lip color to impart a toasty brown tint. This creates a subtle yet defined base. To finish, she layers on the Ole Henriksen Pout Preserve Peptide Lip Treatment in ‘Crème Brûlée,’ which she describes as "the best thing I’ve ever put on my lips." This final step ensures her lips are soft, hydrated, and possess a polished sheen, a look that is effortlessly casual yet refined enough for any occasion, from a friendly brunch to the Olympic stage in Paris.
Dove Cameron, Actor: The Moody Glamour of an Over-the-Top Liner
Actor Dove Cameron is known for her distinctive moody glam aesthetic, and her lip routine is no exception. "I love a really over-the-top brown ’90s lip liner," she declares. Her power lip begins with the Sacheu Peel-Off Lip Liner in ‘Muah-ve,’ which she applies and allows to set while she perfects her brows. Once peeled away, she refines the shape with the Make Up For Ever Artist Color Pencil in ‘Endless Cacao,’ a cool-toned brown that adds soft, precise definition. A swipe of Burt’s Bees Beeswax Lip Balm then completes the look, ensuring it remains low-key and hydrated with just the right amount of sheen. While Cameron humorously labels this combination "boring," its understated elegance and impeccable execution speak volumes about her confident and chic approach to beauty.
Reneé Rapp, Actor and Singer: The TikTok-Inspired Boldness
Actor and singer Reneé Rapp discovered her power-lip combination through the ubiquitous platform of TikTok. Intrigued by the Palladio Lip Stain she saw trending, she incorporated it into her routine. She uses the lip stain to lightly line her lips, creating a soft base. For added definition, she then applies the Make Up For Ever Artist Color Pencil Extreme Smudge-Proof Lip Liner in ‘Wherever Walnut.’ "It looks bangin’," she enthuses about the combined effect. To finish the look and achieve a glossy, plumped-up appearance, she layers on the L’Oréal Paris Plump Ambition Hyaluron Lip Oil in ‘Wine O’Clock.’ This final touch provides a luscious sheen without feeling fussy, perfectly aligning with Rapp’s confident and vibrant persona.
The collective insights from these twelve remarkable women reveal a shared understanding of the power of a well-chosen lip color. Whether it’s a bold statement, a subtle enhancement, or a nod to a nostalgic era, their lip choices are deliberate acts of self-expression that contribute to their confidence and their ability to command attention in their respective fields. The enduring legacy of the power lip continues to evolve, reflecting the diverse and dynamic ways women assert their identities and navigate the world with self-assuredness.
