Shopping for the perfect lipstick shouldn’t feel like solving a maths equation. Between undertones, finishes, and 57 different versions of “nude”, it’s easy to end up with a drawer full of lipsticks you never wear. But don’t worry — in this guide, we’ll show you exactly how to find a lipstick that flatters your face, matches your mood, and makes you feel amazing — no colour wheel required.
Outline
- Why the Right Lipstick Shade Matters
- Step 1: Identify Your Skin’s Undertone
- Step 2: Pick the Right Colour Family
- Step 3: Match to Your Everyday Style
- Step 4: Test the Formula, Not Just the Shade
- Universal Shades That Work on (Almost) Everyone
- Final Thoughts: Lipstick Is About Confidence
Why the Right Lipstick Shade Matters
A good lipstick can do more than just add colour — it can:
- Brighten your complexion
- Make your eyes pop
- Pull an entire outfit together
- Give you a confidence boost, even on a low-energy day
💋 Think of it like your mood in a tube — choose the vibe you want to give off.
Step 1: Identify Your Skin’s Undertone
You don’t need a colour science degree — just these three categories:
| Undertone | Clues | Best Lipstick Tones |
|---|---|---|
| Cool | Pink/blue undertones, burns easily, veins look blue | Berry, wine, rosy pink, cool-toned red |
| Warm | Yellow/golden undertones, tans easily, veins look green | Coral, peach, brick, warm red, terracotta |
| Neutral | A bit of both – hard to tell | Most shades suit you (lucky you!) |
Quick tip: Hold up silver and gold jewellery to your skin — if silver flatters more, you’re likely cool-toned. If gold looks better, you’re warm-toned.
Step 2: Pick the Right Colour Family
Once you know your undertone, choosing a colour family becomes easier:
💄 Nudes
- Cool: Mauve, dusty pink, soft rose
- Warm: Peach, caramel, toasty beige
- Neutral: Pinky-brown or “your lips but better” shades
Top tip: A good nude should be 1–2 shades deeper than your natural lip colour.
Reds
- Cool: Blue-based reds (think classic Hollywood red)
- Warm: Orange-reds, tomato tones
- Neutral: True red – balanced, bold, universal
💋 If your teeth are slightly yellow, cool reds help them appear whiter.
Pinks
- Cool: Fuchsia, bubblegum, raspberry
- Warm: Coral pink, salmon, watermelon
- Neutral: Rose, nude pink, soft blush
Deep / Autumnal Shades
- Cool: Plum, berry, blackberry
- Warm: Rust, burnt orange, chocolate brown
- Neutral: Deep rosewood, brick red
Step 3: Match to Your Everyday Style
Your lipstick doesn’t just need to match your skin tone — it should fit your vibe.
| Style | Try These Shades |
|---|---|
| Minimalist | Soft nudes, rosy pinks, tinted balms |
| Bold dresser | Statement reds, berry, orange |
| Romantic | Mauve, blush pink, dusty rose |
| Edgy / Glam | Dark plum, burgundy, matte brick |
Also think: Where will you wear this lipstick? Office-friendly, party-ready, or casual weekend?
Step 4: Test the Formula, Not Just the Shade
A gorgeous colour in the tube can be a disaster on your lips if the formula’s off.
Check for:
- Comfort – Does it feel lightweight or sticky?
- Finish – Matte, satin, gloss or balm-like?
- Longevity – Do you want something all-day or easy to top up?
Test like a pro:
- Swatch on the pads of your fingers — they’re closest in tone to your lips
- If allowed, try on bare lips in natural light
- Bring a makeup wipe when swatching in-store — lipstick math can get messy
Universal Shades That Work on (Almost) Everyone
If you’re still not sure, start here:
| Lipstick Type | Shade Suggestion |
|---|---|
| Nude | MAC “Velvet Teddy” – pinky-brown nude |
| Red | Fenty Beauty “Uncensored” – bold, universal red |
| Pink | Charlotte Tilbury “Pillow Talk” – cult classic neutral pink |
| Berry | Revlon “Berry Smoothie” – sheer and flattering |
These tones work well across many skin tones and undertones.
Final Thoughts: Lipstick Is About Confidence
Your “perfect” lipstick shade isn’t just about colour theory — it’s about how it makes you feel.
You can rock a bold red or soft peach regardless of rules — if it brings a smile to your face, it works.
💄 So go ahead: swipe it on, own the day, and don’t be afraid to try something new.
Need help picking a lipstick shade for a specific event or skin tone? Drop your preferences and I’ll help you find your new signature shade!
