You’ve probably noticed by now that red lipstick is rarely, if ever, pure red. Choosing a fiery color isn’t as simple as you might expect, and the wrong shade can ruin your look.

If you want a bold red lipstick to bring in 2012 with, Allure magazine suggests going for a cherry red with plenty of shine. Matte lips and deep red shades have had their moment – shiny cherry is where it’s at now.

However, in order to pick the right lipstick color, you have to take your complexion into account. Light skin looks best with blue-based reds, while darker skin works with orange-based formulas.

Paula Dorf – Lip Color has plenty of shades to choose from, so you should be able to find the right cherry red for your skin tone. When you’re wearing this shade, skip liner, as it can look a bit harsh.

You might want to soften the edge of your lips with a Q-tip or a tissue to make your lips look more effortless. A Travel Lip Brush will ensure a great application.