I Haven’t Worn a Nude Lipstick Since Rediscovering This Nostalgic Shade
To look at me now, you may think that bright lipsticks were not my thing. A staunch member of the nude lip club on a daily basis, I usually choose from a tight rotation of Charlotte Tilbury’s Very Victoria, the most perfect browny nude in my opinion, MAC’s Velvet Teddy, slightly warmer with peach undertones, and Fenty’s Gloss Bomb in Sp’Ice Cold, for a little added shine.
While now I’m very much a creature of habit, there was once a time when nude was the farthest thing from my lips. Instead, it was statement reds, rich berries and pops of pink that I gravitated towards.
So, when at Chloé’s SS26 show, makeup artist Yadim Carranza sent models down the runway with fresh, natural skin, a swipe of highlighter and a statement bubblegum pink lip, the nostalgia came at me fast. Instantly, I found myself wanting to pull out my favourite pink lipsticks and get to swiping them once again.
(Image credit: Launchmetrics Spotlight)
To create Chloe’s candy pink hue, Carranza turned to a brand not usually known for their bold shades, Saie. Starting with the Slip Tint Tinted Moisturiser and concealer, to create an even base, he then followed with Saie’s Dew Blush in Baby for a bold matte pink lip that contrasted against the nude looks below.
Yet, while Carranza’s take on the pink lip may have felt unexpected, the pink lip’s revival is actually a little less surprising. In recent months, we’ve seen celebs like Lindsay Lohan forgo nude in favour of pastel pink tones, while Selena Gomez opted for a rosy pink combo for her wedding-day glam.
Plus, as if that isn’t proof enough that it’s time to treat yourself to a new pink lipstick, I spoke to makeup artist Lielle Neury, to get her take on the trend…
Is Pink Lipstick Trending?
“I’ve definitely noticed the return of pink lipstick,” said Neury when I quizzed her on the topic, “People are realising just how much a pink lip can make a look pop, even with a natural makeup style. It ties everything together and brings light back into the face.”
What’s the Best Way to Apply Pink Lipstick?
“When it comes to application, I like to pair pink lipstick with a lip liner close to my natural lip colour for a softer, everyday look,” Neury told me, “For something a little bolder or more glam, try a liner that’s two shades darker. I usually apply pink lipstick by tapping it on with my finger for a diffused finish (more subtle but with a pop) or with a lip brush for a more precise and polished”
Does Pink Lipstick Suit All Skin Tones?
“Pink lipstick is so versatile and works beautifully across all skin tones,” Neury explains. “I do think it’s also about understanding your undertone when choosing the right shade. To determine your undertone, look at the colour of your veins. Blue or purple veins usually mean cooler undertones, while green veins suggest warmer undertones. A mix of both means you’re neutral. [When choosing a shade of pink lipstick] If you have cooler undertones, go for a blue-based pink. If your skin is warmer, a coral or peachy pink will really flatter you.”
So, following on from Neury’s advice, I’ve created an edit of the best pink lipsticks perfect for all skin tones and tastes. Alongside catwalk-inspired candy pink shades, you’ll also find wearable nude pinks and bright berry tones in a range of finishes from matte to glossy. Think of this as your ultimate guide to the best pink lipsticks to shop now…
The Best Pink Lipsticks
1. MAC Macximal Silky Matte Lipstick in Snob
MAC
Macximal Silky Matte Lipstick in Snob
If you want to achieve a Chloé-inspired candy pink look but with a lipstick, MAC’s Snob is your girl. Originally, this pastel pink lipstick came in a full satin finish; however, the brand reformulated it into what they call a silky-matte lipstick earlier this year. Now, in my opinion, it’s even better. Slightly darker, making it more wearable for all skin tones, the creamy formula still glides on easily, with slightly less shine for even more staying power.
Pros
- Non-drying matte finish
- Pigmented
Cons
- MAC Snob purists will need to adapt to the new texture
2. Victoria Beckham Posh Lipstick in Pout
Victoria Beckham
Posh Lipstick in Pout
Victoria Beckham’s signature nude meets pink lip has been a subject of interest for beauty lovers for decades, and while many makeup artists have dubbed her as inspiration for their own nude pink tones, it wasn’t until Victoria launched her namesake brand that we finally had the answer—the Posh Lipstick in shade Pout. A pastel pink with warm undertones, this is the perfect pink lipstick for people who prefer a softer finish. It’s also creamy and nourishing thanks to the addition of coconut, rosehip and avocado oils, which provide added hydration and a pretty glossy finish.
Pros
- Glossy finish
- Nourishing on the lips
- Wearable colour
Cons
- Not as long-lasting as more matte finishes
3. Fenty Beauty Glossbomb Stix Shimmer in Flamingo Pink
Fenty Beauty
Glossbomb Stix Shimmer in Flamingo Pink
I’m a big fan of Fenty’s Glossbomb Stix, however, this bright pink shade had always felt a little too far out of my comfort zone—until recently. Packed with shimmer and in a tone to rival Barbie’s dream house, I honestly thought there was no way I’d be able to pull this off. On the lips, however, it’s incredible. A 90s-inspired high-shine pink with an almost metallic sheen, it turns almost glassy in the light with subtle cool pink undertones.
Cons
- Shimmer finish may not suit all tastes
4. Haus Labs Le Monster Lip Crayon in Berry Matte
Haus Labs
Le Monster Lip Crayon in Berry Matte
For something a little darker, I’d highly suggest getting your hands on Haus Labs Le Monster Lip Crayon in Berry Matte. The shade sits between a berry red and a warm dark pink, which feels both wearable yet statement at the same time. It’s matte yet not drying and doesn’t settle into creases or drag as you apply it. Instead, it glides on easily, requiring just a few swipes to build up the coverage into what, in my opinion, is the perfect autumnal pink tone.
Pros
- Pencil applicator is ideal for targeted application
Cons
- Requires a few swipes to build pigment
5. Charlotte Tilbury Matte Revolution Lipstick in Pillow Talk
Charlotte Tilbury
Matte Revolution Lipstick in Pillow Talk
Arguably the most iconic of all pink lipsticks, Charlotte Tilbury’s Pillow Talk is described as the perfect nude-pink tone. Loved by beauty editors en masse as well as celebrities, including Lily-Rose Depp, Alexa Chung and Poppy Delevigne, it’s designed to suit all skin tones, providing a wash of warm pink colour that’s easy to wear for all occasions. I love pairing this with a slightly darker lip liner for a 90s-inspired look.
Pros
- Great everyday pink shade
6. Laura Mercier Caviar Hydra-Cream Lipstick in Le Marais
Laura Mercier
Caviar Hydra-Cream Lipstick in Le Marais
While many of the pink lipsticks on this list feel hydrating on the lips, Laura Mercier’s formula tops the bunch. Infused with shea butter and grape seed oil, it slips easily across the lips, leaving a lightweight wash of colour. Le Marias sits between a pastel and candy pink tone, ideal for tapping into this season’s trending pink look.
Cons
- Can become streaky if you apply to much
7. Westman Atelier Lip Suede in LFG
Westman Atelier
Lip Suede in LFG
Pigmented lipsticks don’t get much better than Westman Atelier’s Lip Suedes. I have these lipsticks in a whole host of shades, from reds to nudes and now bright pink, and every one of them delivers serious colour payoff from the first swipe. LFG is a warm-toned, bright pink that feels both classic and unique. Wear alone or layer under a lip gloss for a high-shine statement look.
8. Jones Road The Classic Lip in Nude Pink
Jones Road
The Classic Lip in Nude Pink
Another more muted pink lipstick, Jones Road Nude Pink, is the perfect everyday tone for those who prefer to keep things a little more natural. While the colour may be on the more wearable pink scale, however, it’s still incredibly pigmented, covering opaquely in one to two swipes. As well as providing glossy satin colour, the formula is also infused with vitamin E and shea butter, which ensures it glides smoothly and doesn’t feel dry or cakey once on. With this lipstick, you can skip your lip balm and know your lips will still feel nourished throughout the day.
Pros
- Hydrating finish
- Buildable colour
9. Valentino Beauty Spike Ultimatte Refillable Lipstick in Pink is Punk
Valentino Beauty
Spike Ultimatte Refillable Lipstick in Pink is Punk
Another great bright-pink option, Valentino’s Pink is Punk is a cool-toned pink ideal for those with cooler undertones to their skin (remember Neury said this was important when choosing your perfect pink shade). On the lips, this poppy pink shade translates to an almost neon finish, meaning it’s not for the wallflowers; however, if you want to make a statement, there’s no better pink lipstick choice.
