Tip #1
When you apply your foundation, blend some over your lips. Not only will it make the surface of your lips smoother, it will help hold your lipstick on longer.

Tip #2
Alternate applying and blotting your lipstick to create layers of color. By layering the color, you are less likely to have nothing left after you eat something.

Tip #3
Line your lips after putting on your lipstick. Don't be afraid to color right into the lipstick, then use a lipbrush to blend the liner into the lipstick. Not only will the liner define your lips, but when it is blended into the lipstick, it keeps the color on longer and prevents bleeding.

Tip #4
Try one of the popular long-wearing lipsticks. They "set" on your lips so they are less likey to transfer to your food or a napkin.

• Nat Robbins Stay-Put - I like this one the best because it wears evenly and doesn't crumble if you reapply
• Revlon ColorStay
• L'Oreal Colour Endure
• Prestige WearEver
• Maybelline Great Lip

Tip #5
Don't wear lipstick. Okay, I'm half kidding. I often do this when I know trying to keep the color on is a complete losing battle, like at a family get-together. The compromise is to wear a long-wearing formula in a natural looking color that wears off slowly and evenly.

From my huge lipstick collection, here are a few holiday favorites:

MAC "Desire" - a purplish plum stain that can be as light or dark as you make it Stila Lipshine "Lilac" - perfect for this season of shine and purple Nat Robbins Stay-Put "Sunset" - a burnt red that doesn't scream "RED!" Origins Matte Stick "Gingersnap" - long lasting deep wine color Jane "Browned Down Red" - easy-to-wear red with brown overtones Prestige Lipstick Crayon "Plum" - very creamy and long-lasting mauvy plum Maybelline Great Lip "Nude" - for a more natural looking lip that lasts Garden Botanika Lipcrayon "Cola Nut" - very long lasting liner-plus-color in a natural pinky brown