20 Gorgeous Vampy Lips to Try This Fall

Nora Landis-Shack
Aug 20, 2014

We’re absolutely loving this season’s trend of dark, vampy lips. As the weather gets cooler and a bit darker, it’s a perfect way to adjust your bold look and add a bit of luxury to your morning routine. Plus, there’s nothing more empowering than swiping a rich dark color over your lips before heading out the door. But for those of us who aren’t makeup mavens, incorporating deeper hues like burgundy, cherry red, and violet can be a little intimidating. The trick is to temper out the heaviness with soft and subdued makeup. Here are 20 looks we love that totally nail the balancing act of a dark, powerful lip and subtle makeup.

1. Defined Lashes and Oxblood Lips: We can’t think of a more classic (or classy) look. A swipe of lipstick and standout lashes make eyes and lips pop without being too heavy. (via Glamour)

2. Bold Brows, Bold Lips: If any feature is going to stand up to your powerful pout, it’s got to be your brows. Fill in or pair naturally thick and manicured brows with a deep purple lip for a symmetrical and gorgeous look. (via Brittany Brosseau)

3. Intensify Cherry Red: Ms. Dewan-Tatum does it best (are we even surprised?) by pairing a deep cherry lip with flawless skin. Her minimalist makeup makes her lips pop even more. Rock this look against porcelain skin for a perfect mouth all year long. (via Beauty High)

4. Go Subtle With Violet: A purple pout goes perfectly with olive skin and a light grey smokey eye. Keep things natural with a swipe of bronzer instead of blush. To make eyes pop without going too dramatic, add a touch of liner around your outer lashes. (via La Remede)

5. Fierce Simplicity: Oxblood is a powerful color, so pair it with bold and slightly messy brows, matte skin, and lots of mascara. Eyeshadow here will make the look too intense, so keep lids their natural color. (via Simplicity is Perfection)

6. Burgundy and Bare Faced: With a color as intense as burgundy, you want to keep the rest of your look subdued. Let your fresh face be the supporting star of the show, and add a little gloss to a wine-kissed pout to make it pop even more. (via The Zoe Report)

7. A Darker Take on Coral: We’re thrilled that one of our favorite summer shades can be adapted for this trend. Find a deep coral lipstick, and pair with some subtle smokey liner under your lashes for a look that transitions easily from summer to fall. (via ImgFave)

8. Rich Glossy Rouge: Stand out for a night on the town or an important work meeting by swiping on a rich red gloss. Defined top and bottom lashes tie the look together into a polished, chic package. (via Top Inspired)

9. Oxblood and Cat Eyes: Pair a dark oxblood lip with a subtle cat eye. Just drag a tiny bit liquid liner into the corners of your eyes to give them some definition. The star here is really that deep, dark shade. Make it matte for an added touch of class. (via Haute Air Soho)

10. Seeing Red: Red haired goddess Julianne Moore pairs subtle liner on her top lashes with a deep cherry pout. To get this look at home, keep your face fresh, add a touch of gloss to a red lipstick with orange tones, and apply a thin bit of liner above your lashes. (via Paperblog)

11. High Fashion Maroon: For a high fashion look, match this deep maroon lip with a high and glossy ponytail. Pulling your hair away from your face will draw attention to your standout lips. (via The Zoe Report)

12. Pretty in Pink: Yes, there is room for pink in the vampy trend. Pick a shade that combines elements of purple, red and maroon to achieve the perfect pink pout. It’s another great way to take your favorite summer look into the colder months. (via Salad Eyes)

13. Pair Scarlet With White: A study in contrasts, mixing scarlet glossy lips with white shadow will make both eyes and lips pop against your skin. Add a tiny bit of liner under your eyes to stand against the white and bring the look together. (via Madia Matilda)

14. Bold Lines: A clearly defined red lip will keep you from looking the way you did when you first tried mom’s lipstick when you were five. The picture of sophisticated control is completed with some sleek cat eyes. (via Fashionising)

15. Magnetic Magenta: Speaking of cat eyes, nothing draws us in more than a chic graphic liner + a full matte magenta pout. We love the way the lines extend slightly past the natural lip, mirroring her eye makeup. Try this look on a date for irresistible sizzle. (via SocialBliss)

16. Blushing Beauty: This glossy dark blush works on a summer night or a sunny fall day. You don’t need to pair it with anything but a little contouring blush matching your skin tone. Let your natural beauty shine through. (via Fashionising)

17. Rich Rose: Try this interesting blend of dark magenta with touches of pink. Pair with subtle shadow and lashes like Jessica Chastain or feel free to play with a little more blush and liner. (via T Magazine)

18. Red and Gold: This royal pairing best compliments a defined red lip: gold shadow and glowing skin. Brushing a light dusting of gold all the way up to your brow bones adds a bit of shine and sparkle to an potentially severe look. (via Kate Hearts DC)

19. Berry Stained: This subtle purple stains lips, and not at all in a “I had red wine with dinner” kind of way. Sounds like a perfect end-of-summer treat to us. (via Love Ginta)

20. Go All Out Drama: Okay, okay, we saved the best for last. This stunning look is probably better for a glamorous night out than your daily grind. Thick black liner pulled out to winged tips, paired with a deep red lip is the ultimate attention grabber. (via Fab Fashion Fix)

What’s your take on the vampy trend? Think you’ll try out one of these looks, or is the dark lip just too intense? Let us know your thoughts below!

8 "Old-School" Manners That Have Almost Disappeared In 2025

Now that so many people have their heads buried in smartphones and other devices 24/7, countless timeless manners that once defined social decorum have seemingly slipped into oblivion.

The truth is there's a certain charm and respect that comes with old-school etiquette that's well worth reviving. So, here are some gestures and overall manners that should've never gone out of style in the first place.

Scroll to see all the old-school manners that have almost disappeared...

1. Getting Dressed Up

Marcus Queiroga Silva

In an age where super casual attire has become the norm, it's not uncommon to see people in pajamas at the grocery store or even attending doctor's appointments. While comfort is key, and athleisure is "in," there's still something special about dressing up for an occasion.

Whether you're just running errands, attending a casual gathering, or going out for a night on the town, taking the time to put together a thoughtful outfit shows you respect yourself, the people you're with, and whatever you're doing.

2. Addressing People With Titles

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Addressing someone with a title like "sir," "ma'am," or "miss" wasn't just viewed as polite in the past. It also reflected a basic level of respect and acknowledgment of someone's status or age.

Using titles may seem old-fashioned in today's world, but it can still make a meaningful impact. While it's common for people to skip formalities and dive straight into conversation, taking a moment to use a respectful title is a small gesture that makes a great first impression.

3. Offering Seats To Women, Children, And Elderly

cottonbro studio

Did chivalry on public transport die? It used to be commonplace to offer up seats on buses, trains, and subways to women, children, and the elderly. Now, people are arguably so caught up with texting and social media that they might not notice (or care) to continue this act.

This tiny act of kindness doesn't take a lot of effort, but it speaks volumes about your character. If you see someone who might need your seat more, like a pregnant woman or an older man, offer your seat to show empathy and respect.

4. Being A Friendly Neighbor

Zen Chung

Being a friendly neighbor used to be a cornerstone of suburban life, but today, it's becoming increasingly rare for people to interact with those who live right next door.

Many people now come and go without much more than a polite wave or brief nod, and the days of chatting over the fence or borrowing a cup of sugar seem like a distant memory.

Nonetheless, taking the time to be a friendly, approachable neighbor can strengthen your sense of community. Don't be afraid to introduce yourself, greet them when you pass by, and offer help when you can.

5. Saying "Please" And "Thank You"

Mizuno K

Nowadays, convenience seems to trump consideration, and it's easy to forget the power of simple politeness. Saying "please" and "thank you" probably seems like basic manners, and that's because it is. Yet, these magic words are still becoming rare to hear.

The next time someone holds the door for you or rings up your groceries at the supermarket, don't forget to thank them. Or, when you're asking a retail employee for help, say please. These small phrases go a long way in showing appreciation and respect.

6. Apologizing In Real Life

Kaboompics.com

Everybody makes mistakes, but what's your go-to way to rectify them? When you've upset a loved one, you might type out a quick text or leave them a voicemail. While that's common practice today, nothing can replace in-person apologies.

Texts simply lack depth and can feel impersonal. By getting in your car, driving to your friend or partner's house, and knocking on their front door to apologize, you're making it clear that you feel genuine remorse and value their feelings.

7. Sending "Thank You" Notes

Katya Wolf

On a similar note, sending a "thank you" text to a friend or relative after they attend an important life event, like your birthday party, graduation, baby shower, or wedding, just isn't the same as sending a handwritten thank you note. This thoughtful gesture is now a lost art.

Not only is it helpful for our mental health and relationships to actively express gratitude to those around us, but it benefits the receiver, too. Ditch your texts (or worse, the mass "thank you" group chat), and send a thank you note instead.

8. Being A Bit Modest

Polina Zimmerman

Finally, this one may be a bit controversial, but it's time to bring back a bit of modesty.

Since so much of our lives revolve around social media, what we wear and how we portray ourselves online has turned into a competition. And it has pushed many people, especially teens and young women, to opt for more revealing clothing.

This isn't meant to shame anyone or stifle self-expression. On the contrary, having some modesty is about showing respect for yourself and not allowing just anyone access to your body. Plus, longing and desire are some of the most powerful emotions, and leaving certain things up to others' imagination can add to the allure of who you are.

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Surprise, Mold May Be Growing In Your Face Wash — Here's How To Tell

So, you've stopped asking "does makeup expire" and have become a pro at spotting unhealthy particles churning in your foundation. We're proud of you, but this TikTok video suggests there's two more things you're likely overlooking: your face wash and the mold that could be growing in it *insert music from Psycho.* If anything should be considered icky, it's this.

Usually we like to make a funny joke, but we've been telling our trusted cleanser we're not pleased with its sneaky potential to betray us. It's a good thing cosmetic dermatologist Courtney Allen, FNP-C is here to ease our fears! She's the founder of Canvas Skin (recently named Nashville’s top skincare center) who has over 10 years of skincare experience so her advice is one we can rely on!

Learn about why mold develops and what you can do before it makes your skin go haywire

I'm clueless. What causes mold to grow in face wash?

Tiger Lily/Pexels

We can agree face wash is meant to tackle skincare concerns like acne, dark spots, and extreme oiliness, right? Great, because it means we're confused about how mold can destroy the thing designed to help our skin. Thankfully, Allen has the answer to our burning question!
She says, "Mold can develop in face wash due to exposure to moisture, improper storage, expired preservatives, or contamination from dirty hands or water." If this made you question how you're currently storing your face wash, you're not alone!

Concerning preservatives, she said "most skincare products have preservatives to prevent microbial growth," but they're going to eventually "degrade." The only way Allen feels this is preventably is for us to "check expiration dates and replace face wash every 6-12 months (or sooner if it lacks preservatives or is organic)."

Noted, but how can I tell what the mold will look like?

Cora Pursley/Dupe Photos

We've probably seen mold growing on old fruit or food we've left uncovered in the refrigerator, but does it look the same in face wash? Allen says, "Mold in face wash may appear as discoloration (black, green, or white spots), texture changes (clumping or separation), or an unusual smell (musty or sour)."

Now that we think about it, we've used face washes in the past that looked like it was separating or had an awful smell whenever we used it. It just never occurred to us that they could've had mold in them!

The bottom line, Allen says, is "any change in consistency or scent should be a red flag!"

How would moldy face wash affect my skin?

Polina Tankilevitch/Pexels

Imagine you think you've hit the jackpot because you found face wash that was hidden behind other beauty products under your skin. Without checking the expiration date, you eagerly start using it only to experience confusion when you have an allergic reaction.
The reason your skin's unhappy is because "using a mold-contaminated face wash can lead to skin irritation, breakouts, rashes, fungal infections, or worsening of conditions like eczema, according to Allen. Why? It's all "due to exposure to harmful bacteria and fungi," she adds. Oh and if you have sensitive skin? She feels you're "especially at risk."

What should I do if I notice a problem with my face wash?

KATRIN BOLOVTSOVA/Pexels

Stop, drop and roll! Just kidding — that's not the answer in this situation. Allen's advice is a little more than a suggestion, however. "Immediately stop using it, discard the product, and sanitize the area where it was stored," she advises. But this isn't the time to get to the internal root of the problem. "Avoid trying to 'scoop out' the mold, as contamination spreads deeper than what’s visible," she mentions.

If there's a chance you're experience irritation in the wake of finding mold in your face wash, Allen doesn't think your life will never be the same. Instead, she wants you to "wash the face with a gentle cleanser and apply a soothing, fragrance-free moisturizer."

In other words, keep it simple post-exposure to mold!

Kaboompics.com/Pexels

To be on the safe side, you should always stop using beauty products if you notice they're irritating your skin. It could be that the ingredients are too harsh OR mold has secretly found its way inside your daily cleanser. But as long as you follow Allen's advice, you'll be okay!

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12 "Empowering" Books With Strong Female Leads To Read In 2025

This Women’s History Month, celebrate strong, complex, and unforgettable female characters who challenge the status quo. These books with strong female leads span centuries and continents, offering a powerful look at resilience, rebellion, and reinvention. Whether you’re in the mood for historical heroines seeking justice, fierce detectives uncovering dangerous secrets, or contemporary women navigating love, loss, and identity, these must-reads showcase the many ways women carve their own paths — no matter the obstacles in their way. So here are all the books with strong female leads we're excited about this year!

Scroll to see all the empowering new books you should read with strong female leads in 2025!

Amazon

The Queen’s Spade by Sarah Raughley

Nineteen-year-old Sarah Bonetta Forbes, once a princess of the Egbado Clan, wants revenge against the British Crown. Stolen from her homeland and turned into royal property, she vows to destroy those responsible, starting with her own godmother, Queen Victoria. To bring down the monarchy, Sally must navigate court politics, manipulate the Queen’s inner circle, and align with a dangerous London crime lord. She even exploits the affections of Prince Albert, using him as a pawn in her deadly game. But when Queen Victoria forces her into marriage, Sally faces an impossible choice. With her freedom slipping away and her heart on the line, she must decide how much she is willing to sacrifice for vengeance.

Amazon

An Intrigue of Witches by Esme Addison

History professor Sidney Taylor is stuck shuffling papers in DC after an inconvenient discovery stalls her career. When an anonymous invitation offers a million-dollar reward to find a missing artifact in Robbinsville, North Carolina, she can’t resist — especially with a chance to visit her grandmother. Following centuries-old clues, Sidney embarks on a thrilling treasure hunt, but soon realizes she’s entangled in a dangerous conspiracy. As secret societies, ancient bloodlines, and witches come into play, she uncovers a truth that shakes her to the core. What she finds isn’t just an artifact — it’s a revelation that threatens the very foundation of America itself.

Amazon

Kinda Koreanby Joan Sung

In this powerful coming-of-age memoir, Joan Sung reflects on her Korean American identity while learning to forgive her Tiger Mom. Raised in a home shaped by intergenerational trauma, Sung bravely breaks the silence that haunts her family. With honesty and courage, she shares her journey of growing up with a mother who struggled to understand American society. As she navigates the challenges of being both Korean and American, Sung exposes the microaggressions, fetishization, and racism she faced. She connects her personal experiences with the broader issues affecting Asian American communities, exploring how the COVID pandemic brought long-standing violence and discrimination to the forefront.

Amazon

Junie by Erin Crosby Eckstine

Junie, a sixteen-year-old enslaved on Bellereine Plantation, has lived her life tending to the white master’s daughter, Violet, and grieving the death of her sister, Minnie. When guests arrive from New Orleans, bringing changes to Violet’s life, Junie’s world is turned upside down. In an act of desperation, Junie awakens Minnie’s ghost, and her sister remains tethered to the living world unless Junie can release her. With the help of Caleb, the coachman, Junie discovers hidden secrets about Bellereine. As the Civil War looms, she faces a life-altering choice about love, freedom, and the sacrifices she must make in the fight for her future.

Amazon

Fog and Fury by Rachel Howzell Hall (July 1, 2025)

After a decade with the LAPD, Sonny Rush moves to quiet Haven, California, to care for her mother and join her godfather’s PI business. Her first case finding a missing goldendoodle with a Versace collar seems harmless enough. But Figgy’s disappearance quickly leads to an unexpected reunion with her wealthy ex and a much darker mystery. When a teenage boy’s body is found on a popular trail, Sonny realizes Haven is not as idyllic as it seems. As she digs deeper, she uncovers secrets more twisted than anything she encountered in LA. A cryptic warning from a local makes one thing clear. In Haven, nothing is what it seems and finding the truth might cost Sonny everything.

Amazon

(S)Kin by Ibi Zoboi

Two teenagers connected through family secrets and ancient magic unite in Ibi Zoboi’s new novel. Fifteen-year-old Marisol is the daughter of a soucouyant, a fireball witch who must feed off the lives of others every new moon. She hoped their old traditions would be left behind when they emigrated from the islands, but her mother keeps her bound to her magical past. Brooklyn isn’t a place for witches, with its bright lights and locked doors. Seventeen-year-old Genevieve, struggling with a worsening skin condition, longs for answers about her estranged mother. When a new nanny arrives to care for her family’s twins, a hidden connection to Marisol is revealed. As the girls uncover secrets, they realize that their magic, hidden beneath their skin, may prove more destructive than they imagined.

Amazon

Cover Story by Celia Laskey (March 25, 2025)

Ali is a Hollywood publicist responsible for keeping gay celebrities in the closet, which is ironic since she is a lesbian herself. When she is assigned rising star Cara Bisset, whose breakout role is in a straight romantic blockbuster, managing Cara’s image becomes her toughest job yet. Cara is bold and unwilling to hide who she is, leading to a series of close calls. Ali is sent on a global press tour to keep her in line but instead finds herself drawn to Cara’s confidence. Still grieving the loss of her partner, Ali begins questioning the closeting system she has upheld. As Cara’s fame grows, they must decide whether to play it safe or risk everything for love.

Amazon

The Book Club for Troublesome Women by Marie Bostwick (April 22, 2025)

Margaret Ryan has the perfect life by 1960s standards—three children, a husband, and a home in a suburban neighborhood. But when she meets Charlotte Gustafson, the newest neighbor, Margaret is pulled into a life-changing journey. She starts a book club, inviting Charlotte and two other women, Bitsy and Viv, to read The Feminine Mystique. As the women bond over the book, they begin to realize that the American dream they were sold doesn’t fulfill their deeper desires. Together, they form a strong sisterhood and unknowingly set off a feminist revolution.

Amazon

Portrait of a Feminist by Marianna Marlowe

In Portrait of a Feminist, Peruvian American feminist Marianna Marlowe shares her journey from childhood in California, Peru, and Ecuador to adulthood as an academic, wife, and mother. Through braided memories, she explores the development of her feminist identity and the influence of patriarchy in her life. Marlowe examines the challenges of growing up in a family shaped by cultural and religious differences, confronting issues like misogyny, unequal marriages, and class structures. With insightful writing, she reflects on how feminism has shaped her and raises critical questions about its future evolution and relevance in today’s world.

Amazon

Isola by Allegra Goodman

Marguerite’s life of privilege is shattered when she is orphaned, and her guardian squanders her inheritance. Forced to accompany him on an expedition to New France, their journey takes a tragic turn. Marguerite is accused of betrayal, brutally punished, and abandoned on a remote island. Stripped of her former life and surrounded by harsh elements, she must rely on her inner strength and a newfound faith to survive. As the island is blanketed in ice, Marguerite’s fight for survival becomes a testament to resilience and defiance. Isola is a captivating historical epic inspired by the real-life struggles of a sixteenth-century heroine, Marguerite de La Rocque.

Amazon

The Widow’s Webby Susan Moore

When tech mogul Brad Jones is found drowned off the Marin coast, his death is ruled a suicide. But his wife, Dr. Anna Jones, a renowned cyber-psychologist, suspects foul play. Driven by grief and doubt, she begins to investigate Brad’s past, uncovering secrets that lead her into the world of Silicon Valley’s elite. As Anna digs deeper, she crosses paths with Scott and Kristy Lyle, powerful figures with high-level connections. The more Anna uncovers, the more she realizes Brad’s death is linked to a dark secret that powerful people will kill to protect. Caught between truth and danger, Anna must decide if she will risk everything to expose the deadly forces at play.

Amazon

Shooting Stars Above by Patricia Leavy

Tess Lee is a world-famous novelist whose books inspire people to believe in hope, yet she struggles to find own happiness. Jack Miller is a federal agent working in counterterrorism, scarred by years of violence and dedication to his job. When Tess and Jack meet, their connection is instant, but old wounds soon resurface. Jack struggles with the loss of a loved one, and Tess faces her painful childhood. As they struggle with their pasts, they must decide if unconditional love can heal their invisible scars and help them find light after years of darkness.

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