ELLE Beauty Lipstick Encyclopedia: Your Go-To Guide For Every Shade And Finish

Let’s celebrate, I mean we totally need to get some new lipsticks, it’s the day for it, right? RIGHT?

There are so many formulations and fun shades to choose from. If you’re into mattes or can’t get enough of that glossy finish, like me, there’s lipstick out there waiting to become your new favourite. Personally, I’ve tried more lipsticks than I care to admit, and I’ve rounded up the best of the best, so we can just add to cart.

Sophisticated Mattes

Matte lipsticks have been my go-to for years. They give you a bold, vibrant colour with a long-lasting finish that doesn’t budge. If you want lipstick that will stay put through meals, drinks, and even a little smooching, matte is the way to go. A bold red matte is a must-have in every collection, it’s perfect for making a statement. For an everyday look, a nude matte is essential. It can be paired with any makeup style or outfit. In the fall and winter, a deep berry matte gives your lips a rich, luxurious colour and if you love to experiment with bold shades, a dark plum or a quirky purple is the perfect pick.

Silky Satins

Satin lipsticks strike the perfect balance between matte and glossy. They offer a creamy texture with a subtle sheen that keeps your lips looking hydrated and plump. If you’re looking for a lipstick that’s comfortable to wear and delivers a beautiful finish, satin is the way to go. A peach satin lipstick adds a touch of warmth to your makeup look, while a rosy pink is perfect for a natural, fresh-faced vibe. You can’t go wrong with a sophisticated mauve for transitioning from day to night. For a modern twist on the classic red, a satin brick red is bold yet wearable for any occasion. And if you want to try something trendy, a chocolate brown satin is perfect for work and parties.

Light Mousses

Mousse lipsticks are all about comfort. They have a lightweight, airy texture that feels like you’re wearing nothing at all. Despite their light feel, they deliver intense colour payoff and a velvety finish that’s simply irresistible. A soft pink mousse is perfect for a natural, everyday look, while a fiery orange is daring and sure to turn heads. For a bit of romance, a dusty rose would do wonders. A deep wine is rich and bold, perfect for making a statement in the evening. And to brighten up your summer look, a sunny coral mousse adds a playful vibe.

Pretty Glosses

Glossy lipsticks are back in a big way, and we couldn’t be happier. As Serena Wanderwoodsen once said, “Lipstick lasts longer but gloss is more fun”.They give you a high-shine finish that makes your lips look fuller and more luscious. If you love a juicy, hydrated look, glossy lipsticks are the way to go. For an everyday look, a shimmering nude gloss adds just the right amount of shine, a pink gloss adds a cute girly vibe, while a red gloss is bold, shiny, and perfect for a night out. You can wear these on their own or top them over your favourite lipstick.

Lipstick Day is the perfect opportunity to experiment with new shades and formulations, treat yourself to a new lipstick (or thirty!) and let your lips do the talking.

Beauty Writer

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