In the heat of August, a deep-red pout might feel fit only for a lady of the night, but think again. Dark crimson and plum lips can play wonderfully off tan skin. And you’ll be one step ahead for fall, as the shows featured a cavalcade of models with vampy, vibrant lips. Here, the most sumptuous of the latest reds:

1) Yves Saint Laurent Rouge Volupté Radiant Lipstick in Red Temptation, Red Muse, and Red Taboo: What could be more fitting than a trio of dynamic shades? The pigments, raging from bright to downright dangerous, are simultaneously intense and glossy, and they also smooth and plump (and offer SPF15).

Red Muse and Red Taboo, available at Neiman Marcus, Red Temptation, available at Yves Saint Laurent for $34 each.

2) Armani Beauty Rouge d’Armani in 403: This oxblood-turned-plum has just enough pillowy pink to be flattering on all skintones, during all seasons.
At Barneys New York for $30.

3) Guerlain Rouge G in Greta: Not only is this mirror-compact casing pure genius, the color is irresistible. Named after one of the most enigmatic sirens to ever grace the big screen, this shade does its namesake justice.
On Amazon for $43 (from $48).

4) Bite Beauty Honey Lip Lacquer in Aurora: It’s actually made from the ingredients in red wine, and this color is as luscious and deep as a full glass of Barolo. Or you can simply dab the sponge to your pucker for a just-bitten stain.
At Sephora for $24.