The perfect red: many brands have tried, few have produced a hue with the ability to give me a burning scarlet fever. Especially when it comes to that coveted shade of crimson that can be worn seamlessly from season to season, from morning to midnight. I’m surprised to say that it’s not Chanel or NARS or even Tom Ford who has produced the red that’s making me pucker up. With their Be Legendary line, Smashbox Cosmetics have nailed with a color aptly named Legendary.

It glides on fluidly and without fuss, the finish is satiny, and there’s no hint of shimmer or sparkle (not classy when it comes to true red!) yet it’s not exactly matte. With a lightness to it, I’ll apply it to dress up a bronzed glow and 18-karat hoops on an upcoming beach getaway, then sport it with my favorite Alaïa frock and monster heels for autumn cocktails and business meetings.

Side note: girls interested in quirky, not classic should opt for Vivid Violet, a rich pinkish plum that’s shockingly wearable. At Sephora for $19.