Looking for a lip color that enhances your confidence and brings out your unique charm? Every time I pick out a lipstick, I’m especially focused on choosing the right shade, because the right lip color can truly be the finishing touch to an entire look. Especially shades that make your lips look both alluring and natural—they always manage to lift my mood and give me a boost of confidence. Today, I’m sharing a few must-try lipstick shades that I believe will be perfect for you too!
1. MAC Ruby Woo
Ruby Woo is a classic that is always in my makeup bag. Every time I pick it up, I’m drawn to its simple yet modern design—the deep red tube with the gold logo exudes a sense of refinement and luxury. It effortlessly conveys a lavish feel, and I can’t help but feel a little more special whenever I use it.
When I apply this lipstick, I immediately feel the smoothness of its matte texture. Though it’s slightly drying, once applied, the staying power is impressive. I can go all day without needing a touch-up, and even after eating or drinking, it stays intact. What I love most is how it defines my lips, leaving a clean, sharp line. The matte finish makes my lips appear more sculpted and defined, especially when I want a bold, standout lip look—this is my go-to choice.
The pigmentation of this lipstick is unbeatable. A single application delivers the perfect red shade, and I don’t have to worry about uneven color from reapplying. Whether it’s for a formal event, a party, or a special occasion, it makes me the center of attention, instantly elevating my makeup. I’ve found that it pairs well with almost any dark or black-and-white outfit. My favorite pairing is a simple black little dress—it immediately amps up my presence and boosts my confidence.
This lipstick isn’t just the perfect shade; it’s an essential for anyone who wants to add sophistication and charm to their look.
Styling Tip 👗: A black little dress or a white shirt will pair seamlessly with this bold red lip, instantly elevating your look.
Photography Tip 📷: For photos, use soft or natural lighting to make Ruby Woo’s red pop and showcase its rich, saturated color.
2. NARS Velvet Matte Lip Pencil – Dragon Girl
The NARS Velvet Matte Lip Pencil in Dragon Girl is a staple in my makeup collection. I can’t resist the sleek, pencil-like design—it feels very professional and chic. The bold red with a touch of pink in this pencil has such a striking appeal, and I always feel empowered when I apply it.
The texture is velvety smooth, and it glides on effortlessly. What I love about this lip pencil is its creamy matte finish that doesn’t dry out my lips. It’s matte without being uncomfortable, which makes it perfect for long wear. The pigmentation is rich and vibrant, and a single swipe gives me a flawless, intense color. It’s great for those days when I want a pop of color but still want a bit of sophistication.
I find that this shade is particularly versatile—it works just as well for a day at the office as it does for an evening event. It pairs beautifully with classic black or navy outfits, adding a bold touch to any ensemble. Personally, I love pairing it with a tailored blazer and sleek trousers for a chic, modern look.
Styling Tip 👗: Pair this bold red with a black blazer and slim-fit trousers to create a powerful, polished look.
Photography Tip 📷: For a vibrant, eye-catching shot, try photographing under soft natural light to highlight the full intensity of the color.
3. Charlotte Tilbury Matte Revolution – Pillow Talk
Charlotte Tilbury’s Pillow Talk has become a signature shade in my daily routine. Its nude pink hue is perfect for achieving that “my lips but better” effect, and the packaging is so glamorous with its rose-gold casing. Every time I reach for it, I feel like I’m treating myself to a little luxury.
The formula is incredibly comfortable. It’s matte, but not drying—it feels more like a hydrating balm on the lips. What I love is the buildable color; it’s soft and subtle at first, but I can layer it to get a deeper shade when I want more intensity. This shade is incredibly versatile—it can go from a simple day look to something a little more glamorous for evening wear.
This lipstick complements most looks, but it pairs especially well with neutral or soft tones. I love it with a beige sweater and some light-wash jeans—it’s a relaxed but elevated outfit that never fails to look put-together.
Styling Tip 👗: Wear this with a beige or light gray sweater and light-wash jeans for a polished, effortless vibe.
Photography Tip 📷: For a soft and flattering shot, use natural light or a touch of soft-focus to bring out the natural glow of your lips.
4. NARS Lip Gloss – Orgasm
NARS Orgasm is a lip gloss that’s become my go-to when I want a bit of shine without going overboard. The iconic peachy-pink shade with a golden shimmer is universally flattering, and the packaging feels luxurious. The gloss isn’t too sticky, which makes it very comfortable to wear throughout the day.
I love how this gloss adds a subtle, radiant shine to my lips. It’s not overly glossy, but just enough to make my lips look fuller and more luscious. The shimmer gives my lips a beautiful, youthful glow, making it perfect for days when I want a light, fresh makeup look. The gloss can be worn alone or layered over a nude lipstick to add dimension.
It pairs beautifully with soft, romantic outfits. I love wearing it with a flowy floral dress for a sweet, feminine look.
Styling Tip 👗: Pair with a soft, romantic floral dress or a white blouse for a fresh, youthful appearance.
Photography Tip 📷: Capture the shimmer in the gloss by shooting in soft natural light to enhance its glow.
5. Tom Ford Lip Color – Casablanca
Tom Ford’s Casablanca is one of those shades I reach for when I want a bit of drama without going too bold. The rose-brown hue is warm and rich, with a slight hint of coral. The packaging is pure luxury—heavy and sleek, it instantly elevates my vanity.
The formula is creamy, with a satin finish that doesn’t feel too slippery but gives just the right amount of gloss. It feels incredibly hydrating and doesn’t dry out my lips. The pigmentation is rich but not overpowering, which makes it perfect for everyday wear while still making a statement.
This lipstick works beautifully with neutral-toned outfits, giving them a sophisticated edge. I love pairing it with a simple white blouse and high-waisted trousers for a chic, polished vibe.
Styling Tip 👗: Match this with a white blouse and high-waisted trousers for a sophisticated, elegant look.
Photography Tip 📷: Use warm natural light to enhance the subtle warmth of this lipstick and make your lips look plump and inviting.
6. YSL Rouge Pur Couture – 01 Le Rouge
YSL’s Le Rouge is the ultimate red lipstick that I always reach for when I want to feel bold and confident. The sleek, gold casing is iconic and feels luxurious in my hand. The moment I apply it, I’m reminded of how effortless it is to achieve a glamorous look with this shade.
The formula is satin, not too matte or glossy, and it provides just the right amount of shine while staying comfortable. The color is pure red, the kind that instantly makes you feel empowered. It’s highly pigmented and only needs one coat to provide full coverage.
This is the lipstick I wear for special occasions or nights out when I want to make an impact. It pairs best with classic evening looks, like a little black dress or a sleek, tailored suit.
Styling Tip 👗: Wear with a little black dress or a sharp black suit to give your look a classic, bold edge.
Photography Tip 📷: For high-impact photos, shoot with dramatic lighting to make the red pop and create a striking visual effect.
7. Giorgio Armani Lip Maestro – 400
The Lip Maestro by Giorgio Armani in shade 400 is a deep red that I reach for when I want a long-lasting matte finish without compromising comfort. The sleek black packaging with the signature logo gives it a high-end feel that I love showing off.
The texture is rich and velvety, and despite its matte finish, it feels soft and creamy on my lips. The color is bold and vibrant, but it’s not too heavy—it feels lightweight and breathable. What’s amazing is its staying power; once applied, it stays put for hours without needing a touch-up, even after eating or drinking.
This lipstick is perfect for evening events or when I want to dress up my day look. I love pairing it with darker tones like a black leather jacket or a deep green dress to create a powerful look.
Styling Tip 👗: Pair with a black leather jacket or a dark-toned dress for a confident, edgy vibe.
Photography Tip 📷: Take photos in dimmer lighting to create contrast and highlight the richness of the red.
8. Chanel Rouge Allure – Pirate
Rouge Allure in Pirate from Chanel is a classic red that brings timeless elegance to my makeup routine. The sleek, click mechanism of the lipstick is so satisfying to use, and the gold casing always makes me feel like I’m treating myself to something special.
The formula is creamy and hydrating, yet it offers a long-lasting, bold color payoff. The shade itself is the perfect red—bright, vibrant, and bold without being too overwhelming. It’s my go-to for any occasion where I want to feel chic and put-together.
I love wearing Pirate with my favorite black dress or a sharp white shirt. The red instantly brings a pop of color to any neutral outfit and makes me feel confident and stylish.
Styling Tip 👗: Pair with a black dress or a white shirt for a polished, elegant look.
Photography Tip 📷: Use soft, diffused lighting to highlight the brightness of the red and give your lips a luxurious sheen.
9. Fenty Beauty Stunna Lip Paint – Uncensored
Fenty Beauty’s Stunna Lip Paint in Uncensored is the ultimate liquid red that is sure to turn heads. I’m obsessed with the packaging—it’s a sleek, long tube with a precise applicator that makes applying the lip paint a breeze.
The formula is lightweight and super pigmented, with a matte finish that’s not too dry. It’s also incredibly long-wearing—once applied, it won’t budge. I love the intense, fiery red shade, which is bold enough for nights out yet elegant enough for more formal events.
This lip paint works with everything, but I love pairing it with monochrome outfits in black or white to let the lip color shine.
Styling Tip 👗: Pair with a monochrome outfit in black or white to let the bold red lip take center stage.
Photography Tip 📷: Shoot in bright, clear light to capture the full intensity of the shade and make the color pop.
10. Burberry Kisses Lipstick – 09 English Rose
Burberry’s English Rose is a soft, rosy pink that I can’t get enough of. The packaging is as elegant as you’d expect from Burberry—sleek and sophisticated, giving the lipstick a luxurious feel every time I use it.
The formula is incredibly hydrating and creamy. It glides on smoothly and feels nourishing on the lips, yet still provides a matte finish that doesn’t dry out. The color is subtle but buildable, offering just the right touch of color for a natural, fresh look.
This shade is perfect for daytime wear, especially in spring and summer.I love wearing it with a casual white shirt and jeans—it’s the ultimate effortless chic vibe.
Styling Tip 👗: Pair with a simple white shirt and jeans for a laid-back yet elegant look.
Photography Tip 📷: Use soft, natural lighting to highlight the fresh and light nature of this color.
Every time I wear these lipstick shades, I can feel the confidence and allure they bring. If you’re still struggling to find your perfect shade, give these a try—I’m sure you’ll love them! For shopping, I usually go to European and American platforms like Sephora, Nordstrom, Cult Beauty, and Selfridges. They offer a wide selection, great service, and frequent discounts, making the shopping experience super convenient.
