The ritual of staining one's lips with a red tint can be traced back to the women of Mesopotamia, who applied crushed precious stones on their lips to achieve a rust hue. Then there was the legendary beauty, Empress Cleopatra of Egypt, who reddened her lips using cochineal, which derives its deep carmine color from pulverized beetles, finishing with fish scales that added a luminous touch to her crimson pout. Lip gloss of the ancient times, if you will!
Women have been reddening their lips since centuries in the quest for a perfect pout. Unlike nudes, peaches, and pinks, the red lipstick carries with it an emblematic siren call of sex appeal and glamour. Christian Louboutin is known to have commented, “When a woman wears red lips, it means she is confident. She is taking control of how others perceive her, and that message is very powerful. It is also a fierce signal to say, ‘Look at my face’.”
THE MANE ATTRACTION
When it comes to hair care, compromise simply isn't an option. With iluvia's expertly curated systems, you can cleanse, revive, and protect your hair without missing a beat. Let your locks thrive, from root to tip, with science-backed, innovative haircare ranges crafted for lasting shine, strength, and elegance.
ELLE Beauty Hall of Fame
Celebrating standout beauty products in every category, all earning ELLE's seal of approval through expert, editorial and public votes
FULL THROTTLE
F2 rising star Kush Maini on his racing journey & challenges in motorsport. Ekta Sinha hitches a ride
VIJAY VARMA MAN OF THE MOMENT
Amidst the barrage of releases, Vijay Varma's dignified reticence is enveloped in thoughtful consideration, reports Ipsita Kaul
ROHIT SARAF THE GEN Z STAR
The new generation heartthrob talks about his love for romcoms, music, and future endeavours with Ekta Sinha
Roaring RAJASTHAN
From Jawai's dramatic landscape and Jaisalmer's rich heritage to Ranthambore's enthralling wilderness-Isha Mayer explores SUJÁN's luxurious, eco-conscious hospitality offerings in the beautiful state
Ectoin: The Skin's New Defence
Krishika Bhatia explores a revolutionary skincare breakthrough that merges nature and science, featuring insights from industry experts
Nigella's WORLD
The British celebrity chef shares the secret recipe to her effortless charm in the kitchen with Isha Mayer
ADRIATIC DRIFT
Stari Grad is Croatia's hidden gem waiting to be explored, finds Isha Mayer
Unapologetically MOSTLY SANE
The multi-hyphenate artist fills Maahi Shah in on the fun things she's working on, what meeting Michelle Obama was like, & how she stays grounded