A signature lip has long been a power move—a way to command attention, express identity, and show up with confidence. Some of the most memorable women in history are associated with distinct lip looks. Marilyn Monroe’s red, and Taylor Swift’s, come to mind. And Grace Jones’s metallic fuchsia.
Red lipstick, in particular, has been dubbed a sign of resistance and strength for women. In 1912, suffragettes marched for women’s rights in New York City wearing Venetian Lip Paste from Elizabeth Arden, an emblem of their grit and determination.
To this day, a bold lip can help give its wearer a sense of strength, even when they don’t feel as fearless or put-together as they look. With this in mind, we asked 12 powerful women—including an Olympic athlete, a politician, and a fashion stylist to the stars—about the lip products they swear by, how they found them, and why a specific combination gives them a confidence boost whether they’re on a global stage or just logging in to a 10 a.m. Zoom meeting. Ahead, read about the power-lip looks they reach for on repeat.
Colette Laxton, founder of The Inkey List
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Those who get their glow from The Inkey List’s impressive lineup of skin-care products have Colette Laxton to thank. The beauty-brand founder’s signature look isn’t complete without her orange-red lipstick. “It needs to be strong and solid, but creamy and easy to wear,” she says. Just a few swipes of La Bouche Rouge in La Folie makes her feel “ready to take on the world!”
Ali Truwit, Paralympic swimmer
Courtesy of Kanya Iwana for Aveeno x TOGETHXR
