Max Factor Vivid Impact Lipcolor

Max Factor's newest megawatt lipsticks

Last season was all about the eyes. With summer just around the corner and my beauty closet stocked with enough eye shadow to fingerpaint my own version of the Mona Lisa, I'm busy thinking of new ways to make the lips (yes, lips!) the focal point of my summer look. Okay, so there's no way to re-invent the wheel...but there is a way to complement faux sun-kissed skin with a pop of vibrant color. For that I turn to the latest addition to Max Factor’s Vivid Impact family: Vivid Impact Lipcolor. The collection spans perfectly natural-looking pinks to high beam burgundies. Topping the list of favorites? Skinny Dip, a deliciously fresh-looking mauve.

When worn for evening, red lips mean full speed ahead. Try Sex Kitten, Ablaze, Ms. Right Now or Ms. Right, depending upon your mood and skin tone. Summer is a time to experiment with colors that are out of the ordinary for you. A bold red can be fetching on a blond and beige can be beautiful on a brunette (try Ms. Behave or Minx). But these luscious formulas aren’t just about looks—shea butter acts like a lip balm to in seal moisture and conditioners increase the color's staying power.

Oh, and you really can't resist the fact that these stunners were custom designed by makeup guru Pat McGrath. She has been featured in Allure magazine, like, a bazillion times, and does makeup for fashion shows in new York City, Paris and Milan. --Stephanie Simons