How desi celebs' Cannes makeup proved red lipstick suits every skin tone

Have you ever been told that red lipstick isn’t for you? If you're a desi girl who’s ever hesitated to swipe on a bold red, it’s time to toss that doubt aside. Year after year, Indian celebrities have graced the Cannes Film Festival red carpet in stunning red lip shades proving that there’s a perfect red for every skin tone. And no, we’re not just talking about Aishwarya Rai’s iconic red lip moments.

Let’s break down how these stars made a bold case for embracing the classic red pout and how you can too.

Sonam Kapoor: Blood red for olive tones

At the 69th Cannes Film Festival, Sonam Kapoor turned heads in a dramatic black gown paired with a striking blood-red lip. The rich hue stood out beautifully against her olive complexion, adding just the right amount of drama to her look. Her appearance was a powerful example of how deep, vivid reds can enhance medium-toned skin without overpowering it.

Freida Pinto: Muted garnet for warm undertones

Freida Pinto brought a softer take on red during her Cannes appearances in 2013 and 2014. Opting for a muted garnet red, she chose sophistication over shock value and it worked beautifully. The subdued tone complemented her warm, dusky skin and created a graceful, refined finish. This is proof that not every red has to scream; some just quietly impress.

Deepika Padukone: Vermillion glow for golden skin

Deepika Padukone’s Cannes looks have consistently been about bold beauty choices. One of her standout appearances featured a warm vermillion, red lip that lit up her golden-toned skin. This particular shade brought warmth and radiance to her entire look, reinforcing the idea that the right red can enhance your natural glow rather than clash with it.

Diana Penty: Blue-toned Red for deeper skin

At the 72nd Cannes Film Festival, Diana Penty opted for a true, blue-toned red lipstick that added elegance and edge to her red-carpet ensemble. Blue-based reds tend to pop beautifully on deeper skin tones, and Diana’s look was a masterclass in how cool reds can be both bold and flattering.

Red is universal and personal

These Indian celebrities at Cannes have shown us one thing loud and clear: red lipstick has no rules. Whether it’s blood red, garnet, vermillion, or blue-toned, there’s a perfect match waiting for every complexion. The key is confidence—wear what makes you feel bold, beautiful, and unapologetically you.

So, next time someone says red isn’t your color, just smile and swipe on your favorite shade anyway.