There was a time when cosmetic makeup ads had unknown models with gorgeous features as their spokespeople. Nowadays I'm sure many have noticed that celebrities are replacing those fresh faced beauties. Revlon, Covergirl and even L'Oreal have signed on some of the popular faces of music and film to wear their products. Queen Latifah, Halle Berry, and even Beyonce have all lent their faces for these promotions. I have to say these marketing campaigns are done very well.

The current trend seems to be going towards lipstick advertising. Revlon is pushing their "ColorStay" brand, Covergirl's "Queen Collection", and L'Oreal's "Infallible" lip colors. I wanted to see how these products actually delivered and how can average women achieve the lips of these stars.

Revlon's "ColorStay" products have always been a favorite of mine, but I mostly use their foundations as they are great for airbrushing. I tested out their "ColorStay Soft & Smooth" lip color. I really loved the Baby Peach color, it reminds me of what Celine Dion used for her Vegas shows. The lipstick is really creamy as they advertise. This is great for application as it glides on very well. What I wanted to see was how to get Halle Berry's lips in their ad. The first thing is to make sure to have a well lined lip in a shade to two darker than the lip color. Make sure to fill in the entire lip. Her look is a very matte lip with a brighter shade in the middle. After applying the lip color make sure your lip liner is blended well into the lip and powder the lips after to get that matte look. If you want you can dab a lighter color in the center of the bottom lip to really pop your lipstick.

Now if you are looking for more a glossy lip even with a hint of shimmer Covergirl's Queen Collection has what you need. This look is very young and vibrant. The Queen Collection comes in two shades: one is a creamy red hue and the other is a sparkle plum color. The plum is great for darker skin tones or if you really want a bold lip. The red has that classic Hollywood glamor shade to it. I tested out the plum color. It is really vibrant and reflects wonderfully with natural light. To duplicate Queen Latifah's ad you need to apply your lipstick with a very defined lip edge. A good trick is to use a makeup sponge or even a q-tip with some of your concealer or foundation and run it sharply around the edges of your lip. This will ensure your lips are even and defined. Finish off the look with a clear gloss, emphasizing the lower lip.

Last but not least I took a look at L'Oreal's "Infallible" lip shades. The commercials for this brand are stunning. Beyonce's lips have such great definition and really make you want to run out and buy this lipstick. Not to mention what woman wouldn't want that gorgeous lipstick compact, it's so chic! I tested out the Azalea shade. It's a lovely mauvey color. The lipstick does stay on pretty well. I wouldn't go as far to say it won't rub off on a white shirt but it does have lasting power. To achieve Beyonce's look fill in your entire lip with a natural lip pencil. Then apply the lip color making sure to get good coverage on the entire lip area. Finish it off with a shimmer gloss in a similar shade over the entire lip.

Whatever look you chose make sure to blot the lip with a tissue as I've discussed in previous posts to seal in that color.

Vincent