Alright, let’s talk lipsticks, because I know you’ve stood in front of your makeup bag at least once, staring at 10 different shades of red, and thought, “Which one do I pick today?” 😩 Seriously, picking the right lipstick shade for the occasion can be tricky, but it doesn’t have to be a guessing game. I’m here to help make this easier for you, so next time you’re about to run out the door, you’ll know exactly what shade to swipe on.
Let’s dive in, shall we?
- Nude Lipstick – The “I Woke Up Like This” Look
Nude lipstick is like that little black dress you throw on when you have no clue what to wear but want to look effortlessly chic. It works for everything—coffee dates, casual hangouts, or even work. It’s low-key, but still polished.
But here’s the trick—not all nudes are created equal. You need to find a nude that matches your undertone. If you’re fair, go for a pinky nude, if you’re medium, try a peachy nude, and if you’re deeper-skinned, go for a brown or caramel nude. A nude that’s too light or too dark can wash you out, and trust me, you don’t want that.
Tip: If you’re doing a full glam look and still want a nude lip, add a little gloss on top to give it some shine and keep it fresh.
- Red Lipstick – When You Want to Turn Heads 🔥
Red lipstick is one of those shades that’s a no-brainer when you want to feel bold and confident. But there’s a catch—there are so many shades of red. The right red can be your best friend, but the wrong one? Ugh, it’ll make your teeth look yellow. 😬
For fair skin, go for a true red with blue undertones. For medium skin, a red with orange or brick undertones will look fab. For deeper skin, an intense red with a deeper, blue undertone will pop like crazy.
Tip: Red lipstick can be high-maintenance (hello, reapplication), so make sure you’re using a liner to keep that bold color from bleeding all over the place. And for the love of all things good, blot your lips and layer the color for staying power.
- Pink Lipstick – Fun, Flirty, and Perfect for Date Night 💋
Pink lips are fun and flirty. You can’t go wrong with pink, whether you’re doing a natural “I’m cute but not trying too hard” vibe or full-on Barbie glam. Pink works for almost any occasion, but the key is picking the right pink based on the mood you want to set.
For casual hangouts, a soft pink or peachy pink works wonders. For date night? Go bold with a hot pink or fuchsia.
Tip: If you’re going for a super bright pink, line your lips first with a nude or neutral liner to prevent feathering. You know what I mean, that little pink “shadow” that sneaks outside your lips? Not cute.
- Berry and Plum Lipsticks – For That Extra Drama 🍷
Berry and plum shades are a must for fall, but you can rock them anytime you want to feel a little mysterious and sultry. These shades are perfect for evening events, date nights, or even a night out with your girls when you want your lips to do all the talking.
Tip: These shades can sometimes be tricky with your teeth (like reds), so always check in a mirror before you head out. You want your lips to be the focal point, not your smile looking a little… off. For berry and plum lips, line your lips first to keep them looking sharp and defined.
- Coral Lipstick – Bright, Bold, and Perfect for Summer 🌞
If you want to feel like you’ve just stepped out of a beachside bar (even if you’re sitting at home watching Netflix), coral lipstick is your go-to. It’s bright, fun, and screams summer vibes, even in the middle of winter. You can wear it on vacation, at a summer wedding, or during a spontaneous brunch date with friends.
Tip: Coral can be tricky if your teeth have any yellow undertones (like most of us), so pair it with a super fresh, white smile, or go for a more red-coral shade rather than orange. Just a little heads up! 😅
- Bold Purples – When You’re Feeling Like a Queen 👑
Bold purples are not for the faint of heart. They’re edgy, they’re bold, and they can make you feel like you just stepped off a fashion runway. This shade is perfect for the girl who wants to make a statement. Wear it to a fun night out or if you’re heading to a fashion event and want to show the world you’ve got confidence.
Tip: Because purple is such a strong color, keep the rest of your makeup minimal. Let your lips do the talking! Also, remember that purple can stain, so be sure to layer on a lip liner first to avoid any mishaps.
- Glossy Lips – Because Sometimes You Just Want That Shine ✨
I know, I know, we’re talking about lipstick here, but let’s not forget about gloss. Glossy lips are so in right now, and they’re perfect for those laid-back days when you just want a little shine and hydration. Whether you’re running errands, hanging out with friends, or doing a soft glam look, a clear or tinted gloss can make your lips look plump and polished in no time.
Tip: If you’re doing a glossy lip, always line your lips with a neutral lip liner to avoid the gloss creeping outside the lines.
So, there you have it! Choosing the right lipstick shade for the occasion isn’t as complicated as it seems. It’s all about knowing your vibe, your skin tone, and what look you’re going for. And, honestly, the more you experiment, the more you’ll get to know what works for you. So go ahead, swipe on that bold red or that perfect nude, and let your lips do the talking. 💋
You got this!
