The 9 Best Lipstick Shades of All Time

Every makeup look deserves a gorgeous finishing touch, and the right lipstick is always the cherry on top. This makeup staple serves as a stunning accent that allows you to play with color and take your beauty look to the next level. While there are plenty of trendy lipstick shades gaining major attention in the beauty world, only a few continue to stand the test of time. Among them, bright and bold offerings or muted shades to complement your style. No matter which lipstick shades happen to catch your eyes, you’ll be sure to make a statement. Follow along as we share the best lipstick shades you need to add to your arsenal.

1. CLASSIC RED

There’s a reason why classic red continues to be a cult-favorite. This shade offers an old-school, glam vibe that’s simply unmatched. Not to mention, you can count on this shade to take you from day to night with ease. We also dig that classic red is a universal shade that complements all skin tones. 

Product pick: L’Oréal Paris Colour Riche Matte Lipstick in Matte-ly In Love

2. WINE

For those who love the idea of dark lipstick shades that are wearable, you may want to turn your attention to a wine-inspired option. This gorgeous hue is all about giving your lips a sultry yet striking appearance. In other words, it’s a chic way to step into dark lipstick territory.

Product pick: L’Oréal Paris Infallible Pro-Matte Liquid Lipstick in Matador

3. TAUPE

One of our favorite lipstick shades of all-time is none other than taupe. It’s a grayish-brown color that offers a muted, understated look that gives your lips a playful spin. While this color may be one that you pass in the beauty aisle, you’d be surprised by how it complements almost any beauty look you dream up.

Product pick: L’Oréal Paris Colour Riche Matte Lipstick in Matte-itude

4. NUDE

There is something truly special about nude lipstick, and that something is that it can liven up your complexion. It’s versatile, timeless, and can be worn all year long, no matter the season. Best of all, this popular shade matches your skin tone to a T and helps you master the “I woke up like this” aesthetic with ease. 

Product picks: L’Oréal Paris Colour Riche Satin Lipstick in Fairest Nude, L’Oréal Paris Colour Riche Shine Lipstick in Shining Peach, or L’Oréal Paris Infallible Pro-Matte Les Chocolats Scented Liquid Lipstick in Sweet Tooth

Editor’s note: Visit our article, How to Find the Best Nude Lipstick For Your Skin Tone, for more options.

5. MAUVE

For those who love lipstick shades that offer a fabulous color payoff without the dramatic look, mauve will not disappoint. This deep, dusty pink shade will add just enough pigment to your pout for the right amount of edge and sass. 

Product picks: L’Oréal Paris Colour Riche Satin Lipstick in Mauved, L’Oréal Paris Infallible Pro-Matte Liquid Lipstick in Nudist, or L’Oréal Paris Rouge Signature Matte Lip Stain in I Create (Learn all about Our Best Mauve Lipstick Shades to take your lip game to the next level.)

6. CORAL

In case you haven’t noticed, soft lipstick shades are always on-trend. And one of our favorite go-to picks is coral lipstick. This beautiful shade is a mix of pink and orange that gives you a hue that’s bright yet subdued. Basically, it’s a subtle tone that gives your pout a glorious pop of color.

Product pick: L’Oréal Paris Colour Riche Shine Lipstick in Luminous Coral

7. PLUM

We’ve already shared the wonders of wine lipstick, but plum deserves some love, too. This color has become a hot pick among beauty lovers since it offers a deep, muted purple hue. It’s a fabulous way to jump on the purple lipstick bandwagon without the fear of sporting a super-bright look. 

Product pick: L’Oréal Paris Age Perfect Makeup Luminous Hydrating Lipstick + Nourishing Serum in Plum Wine

8. BERRY

If bold lipstick shades are calling your name, then you may want to add berry hues to your must-try list. They’re a true classic that help you make a big impact with your lip makeup without relying on the traditional red lip. Plus, you can rock this fruit-inspired color during the winter to give your beauty look edge and mystique.

Product picks: L’Oréal Paris Rogue Signature Matte Lip Stain in I Dare or L’Oréal Paris Colour Riche Shine Lipstick in Splendid Blackberry

Editor’s note: Check out our article, Our Best Berry Lipstick For Every Skin Tone, to find your best match.

9. BABY PINK

Baby pink lipstick is just as pretty as it sounds. This pastel shade makes it oh-so-easy to rock a toned-down look without having to sacrifice your style. Since it pairs well with almost any makeup look, you can bring both natural glam and full glam beauty looks to life.

Product pick: L’Oréal Paris Pro-Matte Les Macarons Scented Liquid Lipstick in Dose of Rose

Next: Now that you have the deets on the best lipstick shades, it’s time to upgrade the rest of your beauty look. Visit our article, The Biggest and Best Makeup Trends For 2020, for some pointers.