Before we dive in, let's get this out of the way: anyone can wear whatever red lipstick they like, full-stop. "The right red is the one that makes you feel good," Los Angeles-based makeup artist Fiona Stiles, whose clients include Margot Robbie, Gabrielle Union, and Lily Collins, tells Allure. However, you can expedite finding a red lipstick you love by considering your skin tone. Some professional makeup artists share the red lipstick shades that flatter all complexions, along with some classic red recommendations for you to choose from.

Pat McGrath Matte Trance Lipstick in Elson 2

We all know that Pat McGrath's lipsticks are of elite quality. Makeup artist Delina Medhin loves to use Elson 2, a gorgeous orange-red on her clients. This one (like all of Pat McGrath Labs's Matte Trance Lipsticks) packs a powerful pigmented punch with just one swipe.

Dior Rouge Lipstick in Forever Dior

The Dior Rouge Dior Forever is its first-ever transfer-proof lipstick. It has intense pigment and all-day comfort that lasts up to 16 hours. Makeup artist Robin Black says that it even stays in place with a mask on, making it smudge-proof, especially for this perfect red hue.

Urban Decay Vice Bond Lip Colour in Unbreakable

Red liquid lipsticks can seem scary, but the Urban Decay Vice Bond in Unbreakable is anything but that. It's a comfortable, easy-to-wear formula that lasts up to 16 hours – it can even handle the greasiest of pizzas.

Armani Beauty Lip Power Satin Lipstick in Majestic

The Armani Beauty Lip Power Satin Lipstick is a long-wearing formula that delivers extreme pigment in just one swipe. This deep red, Majestic, gives a dark cherry vibe to lips. This Best of Beauty winner features a drop-shaped tip that gives precision when applied.

MAC Retro Matte Lipstick in Ruby Woo

Few lipsticks have earned the instant name recognition that MAC's Ruby Woo has. "There are a few shades that are universally flattering because of their bold colours," makeup artist William Murphy says. "They break all of the rules because they're so saturated and eye-catching that they're good for all skin tones."

Chanel Intense Lip Colour in Pirate

Anyone looking for a classic bright red can look to Pirate from Chanel's Rouge Allure Luminous Intense Lip Colour range. "It was apparently formulated to imitate the same shade of red Coco Chanel wore," notes makeup artist Lisa Eldridge. "It has a beautiful satin finish with a tiny touch of pearl for a luminous effect."

Shiseido Gel Lipstick in Shizuka Red

Shiseido's most-popular Gel lipstick in Shizuka Red, is a long-lasting, full-coverage lipstick that features a special gel technology that makes the pigment weightless on the lips and gives you full-coverage colour. The shade name is really something special to the brand too.

Fenty Beauty Stunna Lip Paint in Uncensored

When it comes to universal beauty, Fenty Beauty is the absolute truth. One of the brand's early launches was Uncensored, this long-lasting liquid lipstick that doesn't dry out your lips. The vibrancy and high pigmentation of this hue make it a favourite in Lagos, says Nigerian makeup artist Joyce Jacob.