Whether it’s date night in your sexiest LBD or a festive party, accessorizing with red lipstick can give you an unparalleled wow factor. Red is the universal color of love, and wearing it can make you feel empowered as well as mesmerize others.

French women have long embraced an unfussy red lip sans liner to brighten their complexion, but anyone can nail a cherry pout. First, consider whether you prefer a sheer or satin formula, both of which are easy to wear, even during the day. Alternatively, opaque and liquid colors are able to stay put through meals and countless glasses of champagne.

Another benefit of wearing a red lip color is that, because it’s so bold, you can get minimal with your other makeup, creating a low-lift, high-glam look that’s instantly polished. Scroll on for the 12 best red lip colors we’ve found over the years, from old favorites to new beauties, with picks across every budget and formula. Once you make one of these picks yours, get ready to receive endless compliments all season long — and beyond!

: You’ll have no regrets trying this cool cherry-red lip color with a satin finish. The lipstick equivalent of a power suit, makeup mavens say it’s “perfect in every way.” — $9 at Amazon!

2.Bourjois Velvet The Pencil Lipstick in Rouge Di’vin: A cult favorite French pharmacy brand, the 2-in-1 pencil formula makes this rich red easy to swipe on and tuck into a tiny evening bag. Instant glam! — $7 at Amazon!