French girl beauty is often associated with a classic red lip, but there’s another makeup trend that is gaining popularity in the beauty world. Known as “bouche mordue” or “bitten lips” in French, this soft, smudged lip look is all about creating a romantic, just-kissed effect.
Makeup artist Violette Serrat, founder of Violette, explains that the key to achieving bouche mordue lips is to embrace imperfection. Unlike precise lipstick application or overlining, this technique is meant to mimic the natural flush of lips when blood rushes to the surface. The result is a soft, blurred lip stain that exudes effortless chic.
To create bouche mordue lips, Serrat offers the following tips:
1. Start by lightly moisturizing your lips to ensure a smooth canvas.
2. Use a lip pencil in a shade similar to your natural lip color to softly outline the shape of your lips. Avoid harsh lines and instead focus on enhancing the natural contours of your mouth.
3. Fill in the center of your lips with a creamy lipstick in a rosy or berry shade. Use your finger to gently blend the color towards the edges, creating a diffused effect.
4. For a more lived-in look, you can dab a bit of lip balm or clear gloss in the center of your lips and blend it outwards.
5. Finish by lightly pressing your lips together to further blend the color and create a soft, blurred effect.
The beauty of bouche mordue lips lies in its simplicity and understated elegance. It’s the perfect makeup look for a romantic date night, a casual outing with friends, or even a festive holiday party. So next time you reach for your red lipstick, consider trying this effortless French beauty trend for a fresh and modern twist on classic glamour.

