Think lipstick is just another makeup item on the vanity? Think again. Not only were sales of the product up 80% and totalled $34.2 million in April of this year, constituting a massive chunk of the industry, but beyond the statistics, the cosmetic product holds much more profound and extensive significance. Ilise S. Carter made it her mission to follow the trail of bullets and glosses woven throughout American history, leading all the way to the present day, with an eye on the horizon of the near future.Part historian, part beauty copywriter, part drag performer, Carter’s perspective is as multifaceted as they come. Her freelance resume includes The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, and Allure. As a copywriter, she has created content for the likes of Bliss and bareMinerals. When she is not busily typing away, Carter emcees and performs under the stage name The Lady Aye, eating fire and swallowing swords.