The infamous story of brand founder, Elizabeth Arden, handing out tubes of red lipstick to marching suffragettes in New York in 1912 is one that still resonates with women to this day. 

As well as a beauty pioneer, Arden was a passionate women’s rights advocate. She often participated in rallies alongside suffragettes and was arguably the driving force behind the bold red lip being recognised as a worldwide symbol of both protest and solidarity. 

Over 100 years since the first women’s march took place, the equality movement continues to dominate, which prompted the brand to launch their new campaign, March On, with a limited edition red lipstick that raises money for the charity UN Women.

One hundred percent of the proceeds from the Elizabeth Arden Beautiful Colour Lipstick in Red Door Red, £22, will go directly to the charity, which champions ongoing work to advance women’s issues worldwide.

Instead of Elizabeth Arden’s typical gold case, the special new lipstick is housed in a distinguishing (and totally Instagram-worthy) red case, honouring the bright, bold colour as one that symbolises both defiance and unity: bright reds were often worn at rallies by suffragettes such as Elizabeth Cady Stanton and Charlotte Perkins Gilman, to shock, defy and show their solidarity in support of women’s right to vote.

Even better? The pigment-packed, ultra-moisturising red lipstick is signed by the brand’s feminist storyteller-in-chief, Reese Witherspoon.

Like all great campaigns, there’s a hashtag to get everyone involved. Tag #TogetherWeMarchOn on social media to share your support for the campaign – and to show off your punchy red lips, of course. 

Images: Elizabeth Arden/REX