When it comes to makeup, choosing the right lipstick shade can be a game changer for our look. Whether we're getting ready for a casual day out or preparing for a special evening, the lipstick we choose plays a vital role in completing our overall makeup.
However, finding the perfect shade that complements our skin tone, outfit, and personal style can sometimes feel overwhelming.
In this guide, we'll walk through everything we need to know about choosing the right lipstick shade, so we can feel confident and fabulous no matter the occasion.
How to Choose Best LIPSTICK COLOR for Your Skin • easy for makeup beginners!
Video by Haley Kim
Understanding Your Skin Tone
The first step in choosing the right lipstick is understanding our skin tone. Our natural skin tone plays a huge role in how certain shades will appear on our lips. Broadly, skin tones are divided into three categories: cool, warm, and neutral. By identifying our undertones, we can better select a lipstick that enhances our complexion and adds a radiant touch to our face.
• Cool undertones tend to have a pink or blue hue. If we have cool undertones, shades like berry, plum, or blue-based reds work best.
• Warm undertones have a yellow or golden hue. If we have warm undertones, shades like coral, peach, and orange-based reds are perfect for us.
• Neutral undertones are a blend of both warm and cool tones, which gives us the flexibility to experiment with a wide range of shades, from nudes to reds.
Choosing Shades Based on Occasion
Our lipstick choice can also be influenced by the occasion. Different events call for different looks, and selecting the right shade can help set the tone.
• Casual Days: For everyday wear, we may want a natural, effortless look. soft pinks, or peach shades are ideal for a laid-back, casual vibe.
• Work or Business: For professional settings, we may opt for more subtle shades, like soft pinks, mauves, or neutral nudes. These colors give us a polished, sophisticated appearance without being too bold.
• Evenings Out or Special Occasions: When we're dressing up for a night out or a formal event, we might feel bold and ready to experiment with brighter shades. Red, berry, or deep plum colors are perfect for adding drama and flair to an evening look.
• Weddings or Celebrations: For these special moments, we may want a more classic look. Shades of soft pinks, coral, or peach give us a fresh and romantic appearance.
Matching Lipstick to Your Outfit
Our lipstick should also complement our outfit. When choosing a lipstick shade, we can consider the colors we're wearing to ensure they harmonize. Here are a few simple guidelines:
• Bold and Bright Outfits: If we're wearing bold colors or prints, we may want to go with a more neutral or subtle lipstick shade to keep the focus on our outfit. Soft pinks or nudes balance out the brightness.
• Neutral Outfits: If our outfit is neutral or monochrome, we can have more fun with our lipstick. Bright red, berry, or even deep purple shades can add a pop of color and make a statement.
• Evening Wear: For formal events or evening dresses, pairing a darker, more dramatic lipstick with a sleek, elegant outfit can create a stunning, sophisticated look.
Considering Lip Texture and Formula
When choosing a lipstick, the formula and finish are just as important as the color. We all have different preferences, and understanding what works best for our lips can make a huge difference in how our lipstick looks and feels.
• Matte Lipsticks: If we love a long-lasting, bold look, matte lipsticks are ideal. These formulas offer intense pigmentation and tend to stay in place throughout the day.
• Glossy Lipsticks: For a shiny, youthful finish, glossy lipsticks are a great choice. They provide hydration and a luscious look but may need more frequent touch-ups.
• Satin or Cream Lipsticks: These provide a balance between matte and glossy, offering a smooth, comfortable finish that doesn't feel too dry or too shiny.
We can also consider lip liners to define our lips and help our lipstick last longer. A good lip liner prevents feathering and creates a defined boundary for a cleaner, sharper look.
Personal Style and Confidence
At the end of the day, the best lipstick shade is the one that makes us feel confident and comfortable. Whether we love a bold red or prefer a subtle neutral, choosing a lipstick that aligns with our personal style will always make us feel our best.
Remember, experimenting with different shades can be fun and empowering. The more we explore, the more we learn about what works for us. Ultimately, the right lipstick is the one that makes us feel confident, vibrant, and ready to take on the world.
Choosing the right lipstick is an art, but it doesn't have to be complicated. By understanding our skin tone, considering the occasion, matching our lipstick to our outfit, and experimenting with different formulas, we can find shades that enhance our natural beauty. Most importantly, lipstick should make us feel confident and empowered, no matter what color we choose. So, let's embrace the joy of finding our perfect lipstick shade and wear it with pride!
