Those who know me well know that I am lipstick-obsessive. Lipstick is my finishing touch, like a spritz of perfume or a signature pendant may be for others, and without it I feel almost naked. Some may call it a problem, but my 57 (and counting) lipsticks and I are just fine. So, you can imagine it has taken quite a lot of thought to narrow the list down to my lipstick must-haves. For those of you looking to solidify your lipstick wardrobe, here's where to begin:
A matte, saturated red
MAC Ruby Woo Retro Matte ($16) // Stila Stay All Day Liquid Lipstick in Beso ($22)
There is a reason Taylor Swift won't stop name-dropping this shade into her lyrics: it's a classic--and a life saver. Red lips are the easiest way to completely transform your look and pull yourself together. Saturated matte formulas are the best for bold red lips, for the dryer products sink into your skin to resist smearing and fading. This shade from MAC is a cult-favorite; it flatters every face it is painted on and stays put for the long run, so it is no wonder why it is the best-selling lipstick shade. Stila's liquid formula, although widely praised by the beauty community, is best saved for the red-lip committed; it's not forgiving to shaky hands, but master its application and you will find yourself with an eat/drink/kiss/life-proof pout that is definitely worth the effort.
A bright, semi-matte pink
NARS Schiap Semi Matte Lipstick ($27) // Maybelline ColorSensational Vivids in Vivid Rose ($7.49)
Hot pink lips are a great way to make an impact without venturing into the world of reds. Brighter pinks will brighten your smile and the whites of your eyes, making you appear more radiant. A semi-matte formula ensures full-impact coverage with a softer edge; the result is something flirty and fun. NARS's neon pink shade is a magical product that looks different on every person yet somehow is always the perfect bold pink. Maybelline's version is a little more wearable for every-day looks, and is practically a steal with its low price tag.
A "my lips but better" (MLBB) nude
Urban Decay Revolution Lipstick in Naked ($22) // Revlon Colorburst Lip Color in Pink Truffle ($7.49)
The "MLBB" look came into style full-force with the recent years' "no makeup makeup" trend--a fresh, natural face with washes of lighter products that highlight your true coloring. A MLBB shade can be used every day and is ideal for lipstick newbies. The formula should be light and moisturizing and in a shade that compliments the natural tone of your lips. Urban Decay's product was crafted along with their original Naked line, including the sought after Naked palette. The pinky-nude shade brightens a neutral look, and the thicker formula stays on throughout the day while still providing a healthy sheen. Revlon's Colorbursts are ultra-hydrating tints of color. The formula will pamper your lips and never appear heavy. Pink Truffle is ideal for those with naturally darker lips, or those looking to match a heavier eye look with a nude that won't make them appear washed out.
A deep, bold burgundy
Maybelline Color Sensational Creamy Mattes in Touch of Spice ($7.49) // Revlon Super Lustrous Lipstick in Black Cherry ($7.19)
Think Kylie Jenner lips, sans the shot glass suctioning your lips together. These deeper red shades are sultrier than the classic cherry red, and a girl who wears them clearly means business. Avoid a true matte shade if you don't want to look too vampy. Maybelline's creamy matte formula saturates lips with color in a mousse-like texture. The result is a full, pillowy looking pout. Revlon's famous Black Cherry comes in a cream formula that allows you to dab a little on for a just-ate-a-bowl-of-cherries stain, or apply it thickly straight from the tube for a truly dark, daring look. The gloss in the formula keeps even the heaviest application from looking too gothic, even on lighter complexions.
A go-to lip balm
Organic, unrefined coconut oil (check your local grocery store) // Smith's Rosebud Salve ($6)
No lipstick, no matter the color, formula, or brand, will look amazing on unkempt lips. Lips are skin, and some of the thinnest skin on your body. They need a little TLC just as any other part of your body would. Well-moisturized lips create a smooth, plump canvas for any product you put on them. I swear by coconut oil, which is basically a miracle product, to keep my lips moisturized. Organic, unrefined (also labeled "Virgin" or "Extra Virgin") oils are the best for your skin, because they haven't been heavily processed and are free of any unnecessary chemicals that you definitely wouldn't want to be rubbing all over your body. Coconut oil is ultra hydrating yet sinks in quickly, so you're left with only a subtle sheen rather than a goopy mess. Find a little plastic container at a drugstore to scoop some into and you can tote it around in your bag like any other lip product. Rosebud salve is another cult-classic product. The soothing formula has been around forever and is widely favored for the perfect "just-bitten" tint it adds to your lips. Plus, it smells so good, it's hard to not get addicted to.
