Summer skin glowing, your wardrobe refreshed—but your look isn’t complete without that one swipe of lipstick that makes you feel invincible. Choosing the right lipstick isn’t just about trends or packaging; it’s about matching your unique tone, personality, and mood. Think of it as your signature. With so many shades, finishes, and formulas out there, the process can be overwhelming. But fear not—we’re diving deep into how to choose the perfect lipstick for you, and offering a few seamless suggestions you can actually try.
💡Tip: This post may contain affiliate links. We may earn a commission if you make a purchase through these links, at no extra cost to you.
Start with Your Skin Tone and Undertone
Before you fall head over heels for a bold plum or dusty nude, it helps to understand what your skin is telling you.
Fair Skin
If your skin tends to burn easily or looks pale even in summer, you’ll shine in rose pinks, light corals, or peachy nudes. Cool undertones (with a pink or bluish tint) suit soft berry hues, while warm undertones (with a golden or yellow tint) glow in warmer peach shades.
Try This: Clinique Pop Plush Creamy Lip Gloss in Black Honey Pop - a smooth, peachy nude with a subtle shimmer. Its built-in primer makes it perfect for all-day wear, especially in warmer weather.
Medium Skin
Olive and tan tones can handle richer colors—think deep pinks, mauves, and terracotta reds. This tone is also incredibly versatile and can switch between cool and warm shades depending on mood or outfit.
Try This: MAC Powder Kiss Liquid Lipcolor Longwear Lipstick in Taken - delivers a soft-focus matte finish with the comfort of a hydrating formula. Its airy, mousse-like texture glides on effortlessly, wrapping lips in rich, blurred color that stays cushiony and moisturized for up to ten hours. It’s matte—without the dryness.
Deep Skin
Richer complexions look radiant in bold reds, plums, chocolate browns, and vibrant oranges. Don’t shy away from pigments—your skin loves color and isn’t afraid to show it.
Try This: Fenty Beauty Icon Velvet Liquid Lipstick in Soft Pink - a high-pigment, blue-red matte that pops with confidence. It’s been running hot, and now’s your chance to grab it at a markdown.
What’s Your Finish?
The finish you choose impacts not just the look, but the feel.
Matte
Perfect for making a bold statement and often long-lasting, matte lipsticks bring sophistication to any outfit. But they can dry out your lips, so prepping with balm is key.
Try This: Urban Decay Vice Lipstick in 714 - a cult-favorite bright matte red with staying power and attitude. Snag it now with a few dollars off.
Satin/Cream
Creamy finishes are more hydrating and forgiving. They add a bit of shine without going over the top, making them suitable for work, casual brunches, or daily glam.
Try This: Bobbi Brown Extra Plump Hydrating Lip Oil in Bare Pink - a silky rose-pink that offers rich pigment with a moisturizing bonus. This one’s currently offered with a seasonal price cut.
Glossy
When you want your lips to look plush and juicy, a glossy finish adds volume and light. Perfect for warm evenings, beach days, or when you want a flirty, fresh vibe.
Try This: Buxom Full-On Plumping Lip Cream in Dolly - a gloss with a hydrating, tingling finish in a universally flattering mauve. On sale and worth every swipe.
Consider the Occasion and Your Mood
We don’t wear the same jeans every day, and lipstick should be no different.
Everyday Look: Opt for soft nudes, sheer pinks, or warm peaches that can carry you from coffee to conference call.
Date Night: Rich berries or sultry reds set the tone for a romantic evening.
Girls’ Night Out: Electric orange or punchy fuchsia show you came to slay.
Lazy Sundays: Tinted balms or barely - there glosses give a polished no-makeup makeup look.
Prep and Application—It Matters!
Even the perfect shade won’t shine on chapped or flaky lips. Always start by exfoliating your lips gently—a quick sugar scrub works wonders. Follow with a balm to lock in moisture.
Then, depending on your lipstick type:
*Use a matching lip liner for sharp edges and longer wear
*Apply with a brush for precision (especially with dark or matte colors)
*Blot and reapply for added longevity
Experiment, Play, Repeat
You may find that your “perfect” lipstick changes with the seasons, your hair color, or even your outfit of the day. That's the beauty of it—lipstick is one of the easiest ways to transform your look.
Bonus Tip: Keep one “wild card” lipstick in your drawer. Maybe it’s a wild orange, a deep gothic plum, or a glossy lilac. Wear it when you want to feel powerful, or just break the monotony.
A Few More Luxury Finds to Explore
Dior Addict Shine Lipstick in 716 - This is a luxurious lip color that combines vibrant pigment with a hydrating, glossy finish. This deep berry hue offers a sophisticated pop of color, making it suitable for both day and evening wear.
Lancôme L'Absolu Rouge Cream Lipstick in 112 - Its ultra-creamy formula glides smoothly over the lips, offering full coverage with a luminous, satiny finish. Infused with hydrating rose balm and hyaluronic acid, this lipstick keeps lips moisturized and comfortable for hours without settling into lines.
Final Swipe
Lipstick is more than makeup—it’s a little tube of confidence. When you find the one that align with your tone, finish preference, and personality, everything else clicks. Don’t be afraid to swatch, sample, or try something new. And when a favorite is on sale? That’s just the universe giving you a little beauty bonus.
0 Comments
Your comment is awaiting moderation.