Looking at the 2011 runway trend reports here are a few important do's and don'ts you should keep in mind throughout the new season.

Buy trendy colors like plums or deep reds in the smallest quantities possible, so you have enough for one season only. You don't need old lip colors filling your draws. If you're on a tight budget, invest in the classics: a true red without blue or orange undertones, a nude and a light pink lipstick will always see you through.

DARK DO'S
 Always apply base and powder to your lips before you put on dark lipstick. The base will ensure your lipstick stays on for longer and the powder will make sure the base doesn't come off.

Use a brush. This way you'll ensure the lipstick fills in any crevices not covered by the base and powder.

Always blot with a dry tissue as it will absorb the oil in the lipstick. Just remember, the better the lipstick, the less oil it contains.

Opt for moist lipsticks. They look better than matte lipsticks.

Use lip liner for darker lips; it creates a plumper effect. If you choose to use a liner, apply it on top of the base and powder. You can use a nude pencil, or one that is a shade lighter than the lipstick you're wearing because you don't want it to be visible.

DARK DON'TS
Avoid applying gloss over dark lips – the color will bleed and run over the lip line.

Stay away from dark eyeliner and eye shadow; you don't want to look like a teen goth. Either the eyes or the lips must be the focus of attention, not both.

Never use brown lipstick. If you think brown is your color, choose copper instead. Dark brown drains your skin color and makes you look aged.

WHEN TO GO DARK.
If you're heading out for the night, add a little glitter to your dark lips. In terms of color, red is always good if you want to appear outgoing and attract attention but if your party frock is pink, stay clear from red lipstick. The number one tip: make sure your makeup matches your clothing.

For evening drinks, pink and copper are good as long as they match your clothes. You can't go wrong with neutral shades.

Don't use dark lipstick when you're at work, and avoid dark lips at all costs during the day. When it comes to work colors, it's good to keep it neutral. We recommend using nudes and light pinks.