5 Red Lipsticks That Did Not Come to Play

Oh, the lengths we'll go for a red lip. Biting food weird. Drinking non-straw drinks through straws. Polling trusted humans in a three-foot radius whether that formerly picture-perfect pout has faded to a red ring of liner.

Clown school chola is a perfectly fine look if that's what you're going for. But it isn't the sort of sartorial statement you want to stumble -- or sip -- your way into. 

The red lip struggle is real. But these are five red lipsticks worth the hassle. 

Wet n Wild Megalast Lipstick in Stoplight Red

There's no shame in being a cheapskate, honey. Especially when $3 will get you a drugstore dupe for MAC's iconic Ruby Woo. You might have to reapply this vivid blue-red, but it's cruelty-free and pretty and basically free.

Hourglass GIRL Lip Stylo in Lover

When you're looking for a lush, moisturized lip, this is the one to reach for. Hourglass' creamy formula comes in several shades of red; lover is a vibrant orange. 

Glossier Generation G Lipstick in Zip

Another orange-red, yes. But Glossier's formula is thin, matte, and light enough for daytime wear. Layer up at night for a less sheer, more here look. And be sure to lip balm beforehand. This one's prone to breaking up if you're dried out. 

Too Faced Melted Matte Liquified Long Wear Lipstick in Lady Balls

Looking for a true red -- as in, one that's not super blue or sorta orange? Lady Balls is your girl -- a cruelty-free dupe for MAC's Feels So Grand.

Fenty Beauty Stunna Lip Paint

Rihanna's universal red liquid lipstick is pretty much everything it's cracked up to be. While the formula is a little unwieldy, the color payoff is killer. (On my mega-pale complexion it's a to-die-for goth red). Also? It does not budge.