I can do crazy colored eyeshadows up the wazoo, but when it comes to a strong lip, I’m very intimidated. Probably because of the precision that’s required in applying the look.

But I haven’t met a beauty challenge that I didn’t like, and I’m feeling that this, too, can be conquered.

I found this great step-by-step article to help us out. Here is the recap of how to get red lips easily and without looking like a clod:

1. Know your skin tone. This is the single most important factor in wearing red lipstick so listen up. If your skin has pink undertones, stick to reds that have a pink base; warm yellow tones, pick a red with a golden or tawny base. If you’re pale and pink, try lipsticks that have a touch of blue. Berry tone reds (plum, raspberry and cherry) are best for Asian skin.

But if you’re just not sure, try Delux Beauty’s “Vinnie.” It took top honors at Allure’s 2006 Best of Beauty awards for being the Best Red because it looks great on just about all skin tones.

2. Pick the right shade at the beauty counter. Avoid the common mistake. Use the pad of your finger instead of the back of your hand as this will give you a better indication of how the color will look on your lips.

3. Prep your lips. Use a lip balm to soften, and an old toothbrush to scrub away flakes. You don’t want that beautiful red lip color to be held to your mouth by dangling pieces of dead skin. Not pretty y’all. Also, rub off any excess balm to keep the lipstick from sliding right off.

4. Conceal and lay down the foundation. For a really polished look and to heighten contrast, use a lightweight concealer around the mouth. Line and fill in your lips with a lip liner in a matching shade. This is essential as it will help the color stick and prevent it from bleeding.

5. Use a lip brush. This gives you more control than applying straight from the tube, plus it will prevent you from using too much of the product. Which is good since the pigment is so strong.

6. Don’t add competition. Let the focus be on your lips. Keep your skin clean and flawless, avoiding blush if you can help it. Keep eyes neutral except for some mascara and maybe a bit of black eyeliner.

Hope you find these tips helpful. (I sure did!) And for some added inspiration before you thunder out there brave beauty warriors, here are some of the red lips that we saw on the runways recently:

From left to right below: Fuschia at Gucci, Red at Valentino, Coral at Emmanuel Ungaro, all courtesy of Elle.com

From left to right below: Wine at Blumarine, Reddish-Pink at Costume National, Brick Red at Anna Sui, again all courtesy of Elle.com.

So the point is…if a supermodel can do it…then, um….WE CAN TOO!!!