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National Lipstick Day is the perfect excuse to celebrate one of my favorite beauty products.
Lipstick was one of the very first makeup items I became curious about when I was a little girl, long before I knew the difference between finishes or undertones. I was fascinated by the rainbow of colors, the shiny tubes and the simple magic of swiping on a new shade and instantly feeling a little more put together.
Years later, that fascination hasn’t faded one bit. I still get the same childlike joy from swatching every lipstick tube lining the shelves at Sephora, hunting for the next formula or color that deserves a spot in my collection.
Over the years, I’ve tested more lipsticks than I could ever count, from drugstore staples to luxury splurges, creamy satins to long-wearing mattes. Some have become everyday essentials that live in my handbag, while others are the shades I reach for when I want to make a statement. Finding the right lipstick isn’t just about the formula; it’s about discovering the shades that make you feel your absolute best.
To celebrate National Lipstick Day on July 29, I’m sharing the complete rundown of all of my favorite lipsticks — and the specific shades! — that are worth your attention. Whether you’re searching for the perfect everyday nude, a classic red or a bold pop of color, these are the formulas and hues I keep coming back to again and again.
MAC Cosmetics M·A·Cximal Sleek Satin Lipstick in “Crème Cup”
Victoria McDonnellThis lipstick will always have a special place in my heart because it was the shade I wore on my wedding day. The soft pink hue is timeless, flattering and never competes with the rest of my makeup.
I topped it with a Fenty lip gloss for an extra glossy finish that photographed beautifully and lasted throughout the celebration. Every time I wear Crème Cup, it instantly brings back those memories while reminding me why it’s still one of my all-time favorite pink lipsticks.
Tom Ford Ultra Shine Lip Color in “Nubile”
Victoria McDonnellI’ve loved Nubile for so long that I owned it back when Tom Ford packaged these lipsticks in the original black tube. It’s the ultimate your-lips-but-better nude that somehow works with every makeup look I create.
The ultra-shiny finish makes my lips look fuller while feeling incredibly luxurious. Even after all these years, it’s still one of the first lipsticks I recommend when someone asks for the perfect nude.
ILIA Balmy Tint Hydrating Lip Balm in “Heartbeats”
Victoria McDonnellIn my opinion, this is the best red lipstick for fair skin because it’s vibrant without feeling overpowering. The balmy formula makes it incredibly easy to wear, even if you’re usually intimidated by bold reds.
I also swear it makes my teeth look noticeably whiter every time I wear it. It’s the red lipstick I reach for when I want maximum impact with minimal effort.
Why Trust Post Wanted by the New York Post
This article was written by Victoria McDonnell, New York Post Commerce Journalist & Content Strategist, who has spent countless hours researching, testing hundreds of products and comparing the latest makeup, skincare, hair and beauty items and trends to determine what’s truly worth your hard-earned cash. She evaluates formulas, textures, ingredients and more, in addition to consulting medical and industry experts. Some of Victoria’s latest conquests include testing the best sheet masks on the market, and a rinse-and-repeat review of the best shampoos for all hair types and budgets. Victoria, who received a beauty industry essentials certification from the Fashion Institute of Technology, has been creating shopping guides for the New York Post since 2021 and previously held positions at Insider Reviews and CNN Underscored.
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