OK. Have you seen Sara Foster’s lips? They are amazing. They are the epitome of “bee stung.” They are big, but not gross. This has got me thinking.

Lots of girls I know are getting lip filler. I remember when I had just graduated from college and lip filler was something that no one talked about. It was like botox – people were embarrassed to admit they had it done. Now, things have changed and it’s quite common. I have tons of friends who have it done, and I am sure if you are 25 years or older, you do too. I’ll admit, I did get lip filler once (for the sake of beauty research!) like 4 or 5 years ago, and I loved it, but I just have’t had a need for it since.There are definitely ways to naturally achieve the same look even without those gooey lip-plumping glosses. Here’s how it’s done.

Step 1: Find a liner that perfectly matches your lip color. I have a friend who swears by Revlon ColorStay Lipliner in Natural, which is a slightly iridescent peachy-nude. I like Charlotte Tilbury Lip Cheat in Iconic Nude. The name really says it all here. There are so many colors to choose from in her collection, so is there is shade in there for almost everyone. They are not super expensive either, relatively speaking. The finish is matte and they stay on your lips forrrrrever. The next step requires that you go against lipliner application 101 and apply a thin line around the outside edge of your lips. The reason that the liner needs to match the lips is because you are basically extending the lip outward. This is the perfect little trick to achieving that “bitten” Lindsey Wixson look. Don’t forget to accentuate your cupid’s bow.

Step 2: To complete the plumped effect, apply a pH reacting lip balm.  This will help add dewiness to your lips, so the entire look appears more natural. Dior Glow (pink is my favorite but they are all good) is my favorite thing ever. I know it’s not all-natural, but let’s just call it my one vice. It flatters every skintone, and it’s one of the only lipglosses that I have bought countless times because I use it to the very last drop. Another lipstick that I’m really into at the moment is Givenchy’s Rouge Vinyl Nior Révélatuer. Although it appears black, it applies quite natural and basically enhances your current lip color. It makes your lips appear big and even blurs the tiniest imperfections existing on your pout. It’s also made with black rose oil, which is hydrating and clean.

Happy plumping.

If you are a red lip lover, make sure to read my how-to on red lip application right here.