If I could give you one piece of advice when it comes to style, it’s this: you need at least one red dress in your closet. Not for a specific occasion, not because it’s a seasonal trend, but because red does something magical. It energizes you, boosts your confidence, and makes you feel unapologetically bold. There’s a reason so many women call their red dress a “power piece.”
Now, before you roll your eyes and insist that you can’t pull it off—maybe you’ve got a red dress gathering dust in the back of your wardrobe because you’ve convinced yourself it doesn’t suit you—let me stop you there. The truth is, there’s a red out there for everyone. It might not be the shade you originally chose, but trust me, it exists. Burgundy, cherry, crimson, scarlet, fire-engine, or the hundreds of variations in between—the perfect red is waiting for you.
So let’s take a little crash course in how to find it.
Finding Your Red
The best place to start isn’t with your hair, but with your skin. More specifically, your undertone. Everyone’s skin has either warm undertones (think golden or peachy) or cool undertones (more pink or bluish). That’s your guide to choosing the right red.
- Warm undertones: Lean toward vibrant shades. Bright reds, orange-reds, and fiery tones will flatter you best, lighting up your complexion.
- Cool undertones: Go richer and deeper. Burgundy, cherry red, or wine tones are your allies. These shades balance beautifully with cooler skin and feel timelessly chic.
Hair color—whether blonde, brunette, auburn, or black—plays a far smaller role than you might think. What really matters is finding harmony between your undertone and the dress. And here’s the catch: you may need to try a few different reds before you strike gold (or scarlet). Don’t give up too soon—the transformation once you find the right shade is worth it.
The Makeup Rule: Less Is More
Once you’ve found your red dress, the next step is how you wear it. And by that, I mean your makeup. A red dress already makes a statement—you don’t need layers of heavy makeup competing with it. The goal is balance.
Here’s my go-to approach:
- Light, breathable base. Instead of piling on foundation, use just enough to even out your skin tone. Cover redness, small blemishes, or discoloration, but let your natural skin still look like skin. Don’t obsess over completely erasing dark circles—freshness matters more than perfection.
- Defined eyes, not dramatic eyes. A good mascara and well-brushed brows with a touch of color can work wonders. It frames your face without stealing the spotlight.
- A hint of warmth or flush. If your undertone is warm, reach for bronzer. If it’s cool, try a soft pink blush. Both bring life back into your complexion in a way that complements the dress.
And what about the classic red lip with a red dress? It can be breathtaking, no doubt. But it’s also not for everyone. If you love lipstick and it makes you feel unstoppable, go for it—just keep the rest of your makeup understated. Personally, I envy women who can pull it off effortlessly. For me, I prefer keeping my lips natural and letting the dress do the talking.
The Red Dress That Started It All
One of the most iconic reds in fashion history belongs to Valentino. “Valentino Red” has been synonymous with elegance for decades, and for good reason—it’s a universally flattering shade. I had the chance to wear a Pre-Fall Valentino gown in that very red, and let me tell you, it’s as powerful as everyone says.
We photographed it in Verona, and although I had just stepped off a plane and my skin was far from glowing, the red carried the entire look. Paired with minimal makeup, the dress didn’t need help—it was the star. And, in true me-fashion, I styled it with sneakers. Because if you know me, you know I believe even the most glamorous gowns deserve to be comfortable.
Red Dresses for Every Day
Now, you don’t need a couture Valentino to experience the power of red. High street brands offer gorgeous versions at every price point. And the beauty of today’s styling is that a red dress isn’t limited to cocktail parties or weddings—you can wear it with sneakers, boots, or even layered under a blazer for the office.
The key is confidence. The moment you slip into your red dress, your energy changes. It’s not just clothing—it’s mood-altering, like a shot of espresso but infinitely more chic.
Final Thoughts
Fashion is full of fleeting trends, but a red dress isn’t one of them. It’s timeless, transformative, and personal. The right shade doesn’t just flatter you—it empowers you. So dig out that red dress you’ve been avoiding, or go hunting for the one that makes you light up. Try on fiery tones, moody wines, and everything in between until you find your red.
And when you do, wear it boldly. Pair it with sneakers if you like, or heels if that’s your thing. Keep the makeup soft, let the dress shine, and most importantly—let yourself shine.
Because every woman deserves the confidence that comes with her perfect red dress.
