Your ideal pink: berry or coral pink

Bold colors stand out beautifully on deep skin tones, so if you have the guts, go for a berry or coral lip color that is heavily pigmented. Berries to try: Dior Addict Ultra Gloss in Fuchsia Poplin, $24.50 or Bourjois Eau de Gloss in Cassis Hydratant, $15. Corals: Bold Laura Mercier Lip Colour in Camellia, $22, or sheer Tropez Ultra Glaze Lip Gloss in Catz Meow, $1.99.

Tip: "You know that rule, 'Never match your makeup to your clothes?' Well, this hair rule is more important," says makeup artist John Fussell. If you're wearing an elaborate up-do (think Heidi Klum's dramatic Oscar bun), you can balance it with a bold lip. If you have a strong bang framing your face, trade in a bold lip for a more slightly more subtle lip color. And if hair is down and softly styled, try complementing it with a sheer, natural lip. "It's all about creating balance," he says.