You know, I never really saw myself as a follower of fashion.
In fact, if the world told me that something was “hot” or the bestselling whatever, it would predictably send me running in the other direction. Guaranteed.
That being said, I’m a sucker for a good lippy. And for that reason, I present to you, for the 5th year running now, my pick of the the biggest makeup trends in lipsticks I foresee for the year ahead. (Spoiler alert matte lipsticks are still lingering in the wings).
And sure, I may be more than a tad premature for my beloved National Lipstick Day (Jul 29th set your reminders now!)
Lipstick can change everything.
And so lip trends can change. Bright pinks, vibrant colors, and more than the token trued red, this year is full of surprises.
So here is my pick of the 25 best ways you can give your face love and warmth and just a smattering of glam in mere seconds in this new year. Enjoy x
This post may contain affiliate links, which means I’ll receive a commission if you purchase through my links, at no extra cost to you. Please read full disclosure for more information. Having said that, I only ever recommend products or services that I truly love and stand behind!
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My 25 Top Lipstick Picks for 2025. Feels like a Ramones song.
#25 Fenty Beauty Icon The Fill Semi-Matte Refillable Lipstick in Loud Speak’r
This is a long-lasting, pink/berry, pigment-charged lipstick and dare I say demi-matte lipstick (yes, MATTE – in the year 2025 – can you believe it?) You know I love a good rule-breaker.
And oh my, how this hue breaks the rules.
But bold is back, my pet, so if you happen to have a cool or neutral undertone to your skin, be bold, like “into the unknown bold” and sport this perfect pink/berry tone. I will if you will 😉
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#24 Clinique Almost Lipstick in Black Honey
This best-seller, sheer, berry-toned lipstick with a glossy finish offers a natural look and buildable coverage.
I am literally always asking, “Where has black honey been all my life?” As this iconic shade provides a sheer wash of color that will enhance your lips’ natural tone.
And it’s this very thing that makes it completely universally flattering. It goes on very smoothly as well, so if, like me your lipstick tends to oxidize, no matter how cool the tone, this is the perfect solution, no matter your skin tone.
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#23 Pat McGrath Labs Trance Lipstick in Elson 2
Makeup icon and modern-day setter of trends, it comes as no surprise that I include at least one of the Dame’s lipsticks in this list.
A kitten punch-in-the-face bold orange-red shade with an entirely matte finish, this Pat McGrath special is well-known for its luxurious formula and super-rich color payoff.
Turn heads when you strut into the room. You know you want to.
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#22 Maybelline Super Stay Matte Ink Liquid Lipstick in Pioneer
I do love me a good red lipstick. Maybelline’s Super Stay Matte Ink Liquid Lipstick is quick to apply and reliable. And while delivering a very adequate amount of matte product on my lips, they don’t feel dry or flaky. And all just when you thought liquid lipsticks were taking a back seat?
This is also the perfect 1940s or 1950s light, bright red. Did I mention that it smells dee-liciousl? Maybe I obsess over lipstick smells too much?
You also can’t deny the joy of what may be the best drugstore lipstick that still make the rounds on lists just like this one. Year after glorious, vibrant year!
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#21 Lancôme L’Absolu Rouge Lipstick in Rose Cocktail
I love this vibrant, creamy 80’s pink lipstick (yep, I said it!). Super fun to rock day or night. Make a statement without even saying a word 😉
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#20 Bobbi Brown Crushed Lip Color in Babe
A virtually weightless lipstick that I forget I’m wearing. Love it in Babe for day wear. It’s incredibly light and smooth and full of goodies to nourish and heal extra dry lips. Almost like a lip balm in texture, and a gorgeous pinky, nude shade it’s like a treatment for your lips with a hint of color.
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#19 Glossier Generation G in Like
While not strictly a lipstick per se, this is a great lip stain. And I am fond of the odd lip stain in my arsenal! I find them so handy for day wear when you really want a little color on your lips but without the full commitment a lipstick can beg for.
Sometimes a lip stain can be all that’s required. Feels great on, and gives that perfect lip shade/peachy flushed look without wearing a full lipstick.
Perfect for that flushed “I’m not wearing any lipstick” rom-com thing that’s doing the rounds these days.
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#18 Jefree Star Velour Liquid Matte Lipstick in Celebrity Skin
This may well just be the perfect neutral, nude matte lip product. And this formula feels a little lighter on the lips once it’s dried. Long-lasting and matt, I will quite happily wear this day or night.
#17 Huda Beauty Liquid Matte Lipstick in Bombshell
Transfer-proof, quick swipe-on application, and sleek classic Huda style in the packaging department (yup I’m always a sucker) you can’t go wrong with this pretty as a picture warm, pink nude matte finish lipstick. Comfort and style, sound like the perfect combo to me!
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#16 Too Faced Melted Matte Liquified Long Wear Lipstick in Queen B
Uber-cool-toned neutral and mauve in it’s shading. If your lips tend to turn everything to rust (like mine do) this may well be the dream product for your lips. Finally, a neutral color that doesn’t turn orange! If you know, you know, so I apologize for going on. But this liquid lipstick with a matte finish, feels lightweight on the skin and will reward you with intense color payoff.
#15 L’Oreal Paris Colour Riche Lipstick in Fairest Nude
There’s a good reason brands like L’Oreal are still standing. And this is truly a classic. This is a true nude lipstick with a creamy satin finish, and despite epic pigment delivery, it still offers your lips hydration and comfortable wear.
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#14 Tom Ford Lipstick in Cherry Lush
A luxurious lipstick in a red hot slash pink shade with a creamy finish, this luxe “you’re worth it” lipstick is synonymous with uber-riche high-quality formula and elegant, sleek packaging.
Be sure to do your research with this shade, as the pic doesn’t do it justice. It’s light and bright and honestly, as bold as they dare. But truly suitable on any skintone IMO.
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#13 Revlon Colorstay Overtime Lip Color in Unending Red
A long-wearing true cool red lipstick with a glossy finish on one end and a clear balm on the other, known for its all-day wear. You can’t go past refined glamour with a touch of vintage panache with this ultra-flattering red tone.
#12 Colourpop Ultra Matte Lip in Beeper
A warm-toned brown nude with a matte finish, known for its cute packaging, affordable prices and long-lasting formula.
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#11 YSL Rouge Pur Couture Lipstick in Liberated Plum
Continuing the trend of pinks, plums, and fuchsias is this gorgeous deep plum pink from my fave YSL in Liberated Plum. AKA P1, if you’re trying to find it online.
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#10 YSL Rouge Pur Couture in Le Rouge
What other lipstick could follow YSL’s Liberated Plum but none other that this – one of the most iconic lipsticks available to humanity. Just look at it! Stunning. A luxurious true red lipstick with a perfect satin finish. YSL delivers rich color and a silky, hydrating formula.
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#9 NYX Soft Matte Lip Cream in Stockholm
Pretty much a cult-favorite nude shade with a soft matte finish, known for its lightweight feel and buildable coverage. I always describe this shade as bandaid. It’s like that fleshy, warm pinky tone but bandaid really doesn’t do it justice, just helps me know exactly the shade in mind.
NYX – always affordable, and just easy products, and Stockholm delivers, too.
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#8 Revlon Super Lustrous Lipstick in Cherries in the Snow
A classic hot pink shade with a creamy finish, offering rich color and hydration. There must be a reason that Revlon is still so strong in the market decade after decade. Their lipsticks are definitely go to’s across the cosmetics demographics fields. And this is a lovely lipstick to apply. It goes on with ease, but feels great and is in solid daily rotation in Fire and Ice.
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#6 NARS Audacious Lipstick in Audrey.
NARS Audacious Lipstick is a longtime, old faithful, stalwart favorite of mine. Feels so classic with a gorgeous, clean application. Ample pigment and velvety lightweight product. I think it’s worth mentioning the sleek design also. Magnetized so it can only close one way, feels logical and well thought out, crafted.
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#5 Revlon Ultra HD Matte Lip Color in Kisses.
I probably have more tubes of Revlon Ultra HD Matte Lip Color in my household than any other lip product, truth be told! It’s just reliable. Goes on great. Stays on even better, I am in love with this color – a subtle cool, pinky raisin tone. Smells great. This is definitely a solid staple for me, day or night.
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#4 Besame Classic Lip Color Lipstick in American Beauty
Besame is a brand I would describe as classic femininity personified. With their unique ‘period correct’ lip colors re-creating lipsticks from decades gone by, you cannot go wrong any product in the Besame line. I have chosen American Beauty because it withholds that timeless 1940’s look. And honestly, this red looks great on absolutely everyone!
Rich, flattering and long-lasting. Plus it really is delivered in the cutest packaging! Besame American Beauty is honestly a no-brainer to make the top 25 best lipsticks of 2024 for me.
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#5 NARS Velvet Matte Lip Pencil in Dragon Girl
Another iconic red shade, this NARS pencil offers a matte finish with a creamy texture. If you haven’t tried these yet, you must do me (and yourself) a favor. They take the hard work, the lipliner-fear and all the time out of lipstick, and deliver you great coverage and speed, and surprisingly creamy lip coverage all in one simple and effective lip crayon. And I promise it’ll take minutes off your usual makeup routine.
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#4 Charlotte Tilbury K.I.S.S.I.N.G. Night Crimson
Charlotte Tilbury has become something of a modern-day beauty icon worthy of it’s classic cult status. It is creamy and sumptuous. A delight to wear.
If you haven’t yet, I suggest you jump on board the Tilbury train and discover just what we are all raving about.
I love the addition of Night Crimson to my list this year for all the reasons it’s totally different to every other lipstick in this top 25.
It’s deep. It’s dark and it’s oh so demure (yah, 2024 I know, but it seemed so right!)
#3 Fenty Beauty Stunna Lip Paint in Unlocked
A bold, true-hot pink liquid lipstick with a soft matte finish, known for its long-wearing formula. I am so drawn to this shade like a magnet. So gorgeous on medium to darker skin tones – and in a way, as flattering as a red, just way more daring. I wish the image did this shade justice. It’s just so pink!
Love it!
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#2 Chanel Rouge Allure Velvet in Inspirante
Yes, there she is! In all her matte glory. She goes on like a dream and just magically brings me to life.
(and while this Chanel inclusion means I’ve had to give my beloved CT M.I. Kiss a rest for year – she’s earned it) my lipstick intuition tells me this is a fine replacement indeed.
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#1 MAC Ruby Woo
Okay. It’s official. It’s now become a bona fide classic. Ruby Woo the red shade with a matte finish, known for its universal appeal and long-lasting formula.
And this year, yet again, it’s my #1. Right on point with the bold lip shades that will become synonymous with this quarter century-marker year.
I use this lipstick on more period shows than I can count, and it’s still got a current, face-forward vibrancy and will never go out of style.
So whether you go red carpet, white wedding, or Black Dahlia on your event, going Ruby Woo will always ensure your makeup look will have a classic style that is as timeless as red lipstick is unto itself.
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So which of these must you rush out and buy immediately? Or what is your favorite lipstick that may just be calling in absent this year? Let me know, I’m always open to more lippies in my cabinet.
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What’s In for 2025🌟
1. Dark Cherry Lips
- Deep cherry and wine tones will dominate this year – offering a sultry, romantic vibe.
- These shades work well for both glossy and matte finishes, (matte-loathers can breathe a sigh of relief) providing versatility for different occasions.
2. Classic Red Revival
- Timeless reds with a modern twist, like orange-reds or blue-based reds, are a must-have.
- Paired with minimal eye makeup, red lips are the statement focus.
3. Rom-Com Lips
- You know it pains me to describe a lipstick look this way, but hey, the truth hurts sometimes….Inspired by soft, blurred lips from those rom-com movies you love to love, you can achieve these looks with tinted balms or sheer lipsticks.
- Think hydrating formulas with buildable coverage for a “your lips but better” effect.
4. Electric Fuchsia
- Vibrant fuchsia tones are stealing the spotlight, exuding confidence and playfulness.
- Best for adding a pop of bold color with a statement lip to a minimal or monochromatic outfit.
5. Muted Peachy Nudes
- Warm, peachy nude tones are perfect for achieving an effortlessly polished look.
- These shades complement all skin tones and are versatile for day-to-night wear.
6. Unconventional Metallics
- Metallic finishes in gold, bronze, and even greens are being embraced, especially for editorial looks.
- Perfect for making a bold statement at parties or events.
What’s Out in 2025 🚫
1. Overly Glossy Lips
- While clear gloss is still popular, overly sticky and shiny finishes are being replaced by softer, hydrating satin or semi-matte textures. So say goodbye to that old chewed up nub of a lip gloss tube you’ve been secretly hoping would never run out. The gloss is yellow around the lid, so say your farewells, and spare your self the sticky lip syndrome moving forward, friend.
2. Extreme Matte Lips
- Dry, chalky matte formula lipsticks are losing favor, with a shift towards comfortable, creamy mattes or blotted finishes. I have spoken.
3. Neon Colors
- Neon pinks, oranges, and yellows are being replaced by richer, more wearable bolds like fuchsia and berry tones.
4. Overly Lined Lips with Mismatched Colors
- Harsh, mismatched lip liner and lipstick combos are being swapped for seamless, blended looks with harmonizing tones.
5. Frosty Lipsticks
- While metallics are trending, old-school frosty finishes in light pinks or silvers are considered outdated.
6. Opaque Pastels
- Pastel lipsticks that appear chalky or patchy are out, as people prefer vibrant, saturated colors or natural shades.
How to Pair 2025 Lipstick Trends with Makeup Looks
1. Dark Cherry Lips
- Best Look Pairing: Dramatic Evening Glam
- Eyes: Soft, smoked-out brown or plum tones with a touch of shimmer on the lid.
- Cheeks: Subtle contour and a hint of berry-toned blush to complement the lip.
- Tips: Keep the focus on the lips by avoiding overly dramatic eye makeup.
2. Classic Red Revival
- Best Look Pairing: Timeless Hollywood Glam
- Eyes: Sharp winged eyeliner and fluttery lashes.
- Cheeks: Light pink or peach blush with a radiant highlighter on the cheekbones.
- Tips: Pair with a flawless complexion for maximum impact.
3. Rom-Com Lips
- Best Look Pairing: Effortless Daytime Chic
- Eyes: Light, neutral shadows with a hint of mascara.
- Cheeks: Cream blush in a soft pink or coral tone.
- Tips: Use a tinted lip balm or sheer lipstick and blot for a lived-in effect.
4. Electric Fuchsia
- Best Look Pairing: Bold and Bright
- Eyes: A clean, minimal eye with just mascara or a subtle wash of shimmer.
- Cheeks: Warm, sun-kissed bronzer with a touch of highlighter.
- Tips: Let the lips shine by keeping other elements of the makeup understated.
5. Muted Peachy Nudes
- Best Look Pairing: Everyday Natural Glow
- Eyes: Light washes of warm-toned shadows like peach or beige.
- Cheeks: Peach-toned blush and a light dusting of bronzer.
- Tips: Use a satin or creamy nude lipstick for a polished, fresh-faced look.
6. Unconventional Metallics
- Best Look Pairing: High-Fashion Editorial
- Eyes: Graphic liner or bold shadow colors that complement the metallic lip (e.g., bronze with gold lips or purple with green lips).
- Cheeks: Minimal blush and strong contouring to keep the look cohesive.
- Tips: Balance is key—ensure the metallic lips are the standout feature.
Makeup Artist Pro Tips for Hot Lip Looks
- Prep the Canvas: Exfoliate and hydrate lips before application for a smooth finish.
- Choose the Right Formula: Match lipstick textures to the occasion (e.g., matte for longevity, glossy for drama).
- Use Lip Liner Strategically: Blend lip liners to avoid harsh edges, ensuring the lips appear naturally full.
- Highlight the Cupid’s Bow: Add a subtle highlight for a sculpted, youthful look.
- Layer for Depth: Blend multiple shades to create a custom lip look that’s dimensional and unique.
So go and get your new fashion-forward lippy, and wear that new lipstick with joy and pride all day on National Lipstick Day!!! Kisses 😉
Featured image by Andriyko Podilnyk via Unsplash
