Classic Lipstick Shades Every Girls Should Own

Lipstick is a cornerstone of any makeup routine, providing a quick and effective way to enhance one’s appearance. It’s not just a cosmetic product; it’s a confidence booster, a fashion statement, and a form of self-expression. From subtle nudes to bold reds, the right lipstick shade can transform your look and make you feel empowered.

Historical Context of Lipstick

Lipstick has a rich history that dates back to ancient civilizations. Cleopatra famously used crushed beetles to achieve her signature red lips, while women in ancient Greece applied a mixture of berries and beeswax. Over centuries, lipstick has evolved, becoming more accessible and diverse in shades and formulas.

Purpose of the Article

This article aims to guide you through the classic lipstick shades every girl should own. Whether you’re a makeup novice or a seasoned enthusiast, understanding these essential shades will help you build a versatile and timeless lipstick collection.

Red Lipstick

Classic Lipstick Shades Every Girls Should Own
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Iconic Status of Red Lipstick

Red lipstick is the epitome of classic beauty. It has been a symbol of power, glamour, and femininity for decades. From Marilyn Monroe to modern-day celebrities, red lipstick remains a go-to choice for making a bold statement.

Shades of Red for Different Skin Tones

Choosing the perfect red lipstick involves understanding your skin tone. Fair skin often looks stunning with blue-based reds, while warmer, orange-based reds complement medium to dark skin tones. Universal reds, like true reds, can work well for most skin tones.

Top Brands and Recommendations

  1. MAC Ruby Woo: A cult favorite for its vibrant color and matte finish.
  2. NARS Dragon Girl: Known for its long-lasting and highly pigmented formula.
  3. Chanel Pirate: Offers a luxurious feel with a beautiful satin finish.

Nude Lipstick

Classic Lipstick Shades Every Girls Should Own
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Definition and Appeal of Nude Lipstick

Nude lipstick is all about subtle elegance. It enhances your natural lip color, making it ideal for everyday wear or when you want to highlight other features of your makeup.

Matching Nude Shades with Skin Tones

Finding the right nude involves matching it to your undertone. Cool undertones look great with pinky nudes, while warm undertones can pull off peachy or beige nudes. Darker skin tones should opt for rich, caramel nudes to avoid looking washed out.

  1. Charlotte Tilbury Pillow Talk: Universally flattering and perfect for a natural look.
  2. Fenty Beauty Gloss Bomb in Fenty Glow: A gorgeous gloss that complements various skin tones.
  3. Maybelline SuperStay Matte Ink in Seductress: Long-lasting with a comfortable matte finish.

Pink Lipstick

Classic Lipstick Shades Every Girls Should Own
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The versatility of Pink Shades

Pink lipstick is incredibly versatile, offering a range of shades from soft pastels to vibrant fuchsias. It’s a great way to add a pop of color without being as bold as red.

Light vs. Dark Pink

Light pinks are perfect for a fresh, youthful look, while darker pinks can be both sophisticated and playful. Experimenting with different shades of pink can help you find the one that suits your style and occasion.

  1. YSL Rouge Volupté Shine in Pink in Devotion: Hydrating with a shiny finish.
  2. Dior Addict Lip Glow in Pink: A sheer, customizable color that enhances your natural lip tone.
  3. Revlon Super Lustrous Lipstick in Pink in the Afternoon: Affordable and flattering for everyday wear.

Coral Lipstick

Perfect for Summer

Coral lipstick is a vibrant blend of pink and orange, making it the ideal summer shade. It adds warmth to your complexion and pairs beautifully with sun-kissed skin.

How to Wear Coral Lipstick

Coral can be bold, so keep the rest of your makeup minimal. A touch of bronzer and mascara is all you need to complement this lively color.

Best Coral Lipstick Products

  1. Tom Ford Lip Color in True Coral: Luxurious with a creamy texture.
  2. MAC Lipstick in Coral Bliss: A sheer coral that’s perfect for everyday wear.
  3. Clinique Pop Lip Colour + Primer in Poppy Pop: A hydrating formula with a pop of coral.

Berry Lipstick

Classic Lipstick Shades Every Girls Should Own
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Bold and Beautiful Berry Shades

Berry lipstick ranges from deep raspberries to rich plums, offering a bold yet sophisticated look. It’s perfect for fall and winter but can be worn year-round for a dramatic effect.

Choosing the Right Berry Shade

Fair skin tones should opt for lighter berry shades like raspberry, while darker skin tones can go for richer plums and deep wines.

Top Berry Lipstick Brands

  1. Bobbi Brown Crushed Lip Color in Blackberry: A semi-matte finish with comfortable wear.
  2. Urban Decay Vice Lipstick in Shame: Deep berry with a creamy texture.
  3. Lancome L’Absolu Rouge in Berry Noir: Luxurious with a satiny finish.

Mauve Lipstick

Subtle and Elegant Mauve

Mauve lipstick is a muted, dusty rose color that exudes elegance. It’s subtle enough for daytime wear but can be amped up for evening looks.

Who Can Wear Mauve?

Mauve suits a variety of skin tones but looks especially beautiful on cool undertones. It’s a great choice for those who want a more understated look without going nude.

Best Mauve Lipsticks

  1. Huda Beauty Power Bullet Matte Lipstick in Pay Day: Intense color payoff with a matte finish.
  2. NYX Soft Matte Lip Cream in Cannes: Affordable with a soft, velvety finish.
  3. Bite Beauty Amuse Bouche Lipstick in Mauvember: Creamy and hydrating with a rich mauve hue.

Plum Lipstick

Classic Lipstick Shades Every Girls Should Own
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The richness of Plum Shades

Plum lipstick offers a rich, dramatic look that’s perfect for evenings and special occasions. It’s bold, and sophisticated, and can add a touch of mystery to your makeup.

When to Wear Plum Lipstick

Plum is ideal for fall and winter but can be worn anytime you want to make a statement. Pair it with minimal eye makeup to let your lips take center stage.

  1. NARS Audacious Lipstick in Liv: Bold color with a creamy texture.
  2. MAC Lipstick in Rebel: Iconic and versatile with a satin finish.
  3. Charlotte Tilbury Matte Revolution in Glastonberry: Deep, vampy plum with a matte finish.

Brown Lipstick

Classic Lipstick Shades Every Girls Should Own

Revival of 90s Brown Shades

Brown lipstick is making a comeback, reminiscent of the 90s grunge era. It’s a versatile shade that can be edgy or sophisticated depending on how it’s worn.

Suitable Skin Tones for Brown Lipstick

Brown lipstick can suit various skin tones. Light to medium skin tones should opt for lighter, caramel browns, while darker skin tones can rock deep chocolate shades.

Best Brown Lipstick Brands

  1. Fenty Beauty Mattemoiselle Plush Matte Lipstick in Thicc: Creamy and highly pigmented.
  2. Maybelline Color Sensational Lipstick in Raw Chocolate: Affordable and flattering for many skin tones.
  3. Huda Beauty Liquid Matte Lipstick in Spice Girl: Long-lasting with a matte finish.

Orange Lipstick

Classic Lipstick Shades Every Girls Should Own

Bright and Bold Orange

Orange lipstick is vibrant and energetic, perfect for those who love to experiment with bold colors. It’s a great way to add a pop of brightness to your makeup.

How to Style Orange Lipstick

Keep the rest of your makeup simple to let your lips stand out. Neutral eye makeup and a light blush work best with orange lips.

  1. MAC Lipstick in Morange: Bright, neon orange with a satin finish.
  2. NARS Lipstick in Heat Wave: A semi-matte, vivid orange-red.
  3. Fenty Beauty Stunna Lip Paint in Unattached: Long-wear liquid lipstick with a vibrant orange hue.

Wine Lipstick

Deep and Dramatic Wine Shades

Wine lipstick offers a deep, rich color that’s perfect for making a dramatic statement. It’s elegant, timeless, and ideal for evening events.

Occasions for Wine Lipstick

Wear wine lipstick to formal events, dinners, or whenever you want to add a touch of sophistication to your look. It pairs beautifully with classic makeup styles.

Top Wine Lipstick Brands

  1. Tom Ford Lip Color in Velvet Cherry: Luxurious with a satin finish.
  2. Dior Rouge Dior in Poison Matte: Bold and long-lasting with a matte finish.
  3. Sephora Collection Cream Lip Stain in Blackberry Sorbet: Affordable and highly pigmented.

Gloss vs. Matte

Classic Lipstick Shades Every Girls Should Own
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Differences Between Glossy and Matte Finishes

Glossy lipsticks provide a shiny, hydrated look, while matte lipsticks offer a flat, velvety finish. Each has its own appeal and can change the entire vibe of your makeup.

Pros and Cons of Each Finish

  • Glossy: Hydrating, youthful appearance, but can be less long-lasting.
  • Matte: Long-lasting and bold, but can be drying on the lips.

Choosing the Right Finish for Your Look

Consider the occasion and your personal preference. Glossy is great for casual, daytime looks, while matte is perfect for long-lasting, evening makeup.


Long-Lasting Lipsticks

Importance of Longevity in Lipstick

Long-lasting lipsticks are essential for busy days or special events when touch-ups are inconvenient. They ensure your makeup stays intact for hours.

Top Long-Lasting Lipstick Brands

  1. Stila Stay All Day Liquid Lipstick: Known for its impressive staying power.
  2. Maybelline SuperStay Matte Ink: Affordable and lasts up to 16 hours.
  3. Huda Beauty Liquid Matte Lipstick: Comfortable wear with intense pigmentation.

Tips for Making Lipstick Last Longer

  • Prep your lips with a scrub and balm.
  • Use a lip liner to define and fill in your lips.
  • Apply lipstick in layers, blotting in between.
  • Set with a translucent powder for extra longevity.

Cruelty-Free and Vegan Lipsticks

Classic Lipstick Shades Every Girls Should Own
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Importance of Ethical Beauty Products

Choosing cruelty-free and vegan lipsticks supports ethical beauty practices, ensuring no animals were harmed in the making of your favorite product.

Best Cruelty-Free and Vegan Lipstick Brands

  1. Kat Von D Everlasting Liquid Lipstick: Vegan and long-lasting.
  2. Too Faced Melted Matte: Cruelty-free with a comfortable matte finish.
  3. Axiology Natural Lip Crayon: Ethical and nourishing with natural ingredients.

How to Identify Cruelty-Free Products

Look for certification logos from organizations like Leaping Bunny or PETA. Research brands and check their commitment to ethical practices.


Lipstick Application Tips

Prepping Your Lips

Start with exfoliating your lips to remove any dead skin. Follow up with a hydrating lip balm to create a smooth base for lipstick application.

Applying Lipstick Perfectly

Use a lip liner to define your lips and prevent feathering. Apply lipstick directly from the bullet or with a lip brush for precision. Blot with a tissue and reapply for more intensity.

Maintaining Your Lipstick Throughout the Day

Carry your lipstick for touch-ups. If wearing matte lipstick, keep a hydrating lip balm handy to avoid dryness. Drink through a straw and eat carefully to maintain your lip color.

FAQs

How to Choose the Right Lipstick Shade?

To choose the right lipstick shade, consider your skin tone and undertone. Fair skin often looks great with pinks and light nudes, medium skin can pull off reds and corals, while darker skin tones can rock deeper shades like berry and plum. Experiment with different shades to find what complements your natural color best.

Can I Wear Bright Lipstick for a Day Look?

Absolutely! Bright lipstick can be worn during the day. To balance a bold lip color, keep the rest of your makeup minimal. Opt for a natural look with light foundation, a touch of mascara, and subtle blush.

How Often Should I Replace My Lipstick?

Lipsticks typically last between 1-2 years. It’s important to replace them if they change in texture, smell, or color to avoid using expired products, which can cause irritation or infection.

How to Make Lipstick Last Longer?

To make lipstick last longer, start by prepping your lips with a scrub and balm. Use a lip liner to define your lips and fill them in. Apply lipstick in layers, blotting with a tissue in between applications. You can also set your lipstick with a translucent powder for extra longevity.

What is the Difference Between Glossy and Matte Lipsticks?

Glossy lipsticks provide a shiny, hydrated look, while matte lipsticks offer a flat, velvety finish. Glossy lipsticks are great for a youthful, fresh appearance but can be less long-lasting. Matte lipsticks are bold and long-lasting but can sometimes be drying on the lips.

Are There Vegan and Cruelty-Free Lipstick Options?

Yes, there are many vegan and cruelty-free lipstick options available. Brands like Kat Von D, Too Faced, and Axiology offer ethical products that are not tested on animals and contain no animal-derived ingredients. Look for certification logos from organizations like Leaping Bunny or PETA to ensure the products are truly cruelty-free.

How to Apply Lipstick Perfectly?

For perfect lipstick application, start by exfoliating and hydrating your lips. Use a lip liner to outline and fill in your lips. Apply lipstick directly from the bullet or with a lip brush for precision. Blot with a tissue and reapply for more intensity. To finish, you can lightly dust your lips with translucent powder to set the color.

Can I Wear Lipstick if I Have Dry Lips?

Yes, you can wear lipstick if you have dry lips. It’s important to prep your lips by exfoliating and moisturizing them first. Opt for hydrating formulas or creamy finishes, and avoid matte lipsticks that can emphasize dryness. Using a lip primer can also help create a smooth base for your lipstick.

How to Prevent Lipstick from Smudging?

To prevent lipstick from smudging, start by applying a lip liner to define and fill in your lips. Use a long-lasting or matte formula, which tends to stay in place better. Blotting your lips with a tissue after the first application and reapplying can also help set the color. Additionally, you can lightly dust translucent powder over your lipstick to lock it in place.

Conclusion

From classic reds to elegant mauves, each lipstick shade offers its own unique charm and versatility. Owning a range of shades ensures you have the perfect color for any occasion. Don’t be afraid to try new shades and finishes. Makeup is all about expressing yourself and having fun. Lipstick is a powerful tool in your beauty arsenal. It can transform your look, boost your confidence, and express your personality. Embrace the classics and explore new shades to enhance your makeup routine.

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