Top 10 Lipstick Shades for Every Skin Tone

Let’s be real — lipstick is that one makeup product most of us can’t live without. It’s quick, it’s powerful, and it can change your entire look in seconds. One swipe, and you’re suddenly more confident, more expressive, and somehow, just more you. But with so many lipstick shades out there, it can be overwhelming to pick the ones that truly flatter your skin tone. Whether you’ve got fair porcelain skin or rich deep tones, there’s a flattering lipstick shade that’ll bring out your best features.

This guide breaks down 10 universally flattering lipstick shades that work across different undertones and skin tones. From everyday nudes to bold statements, consider this your ultimate lipstick cheat sheet.

1. Classic Red – The Forever Favorite

Red is the queen of all lipstick shades. It’s timeless, sexy, and screams confidence. But here’s the trick — not all reds are created equal. When you’re picking a red that flatters every skin tone, you want to lean into true reds with blue undertones. These kinds of reds brighten the face, make your teeth look whiter, and balance out any warm or cool undertones you have. That’s why it’s a go-to for makeup artists around the world.

If you have fair skin, a blue-based red gives you that stunning Snow White contrast. On medium skin, it creates a bold, sultry look that instantly elevates your makeup game. For deeper skin, true reds pop beautifully and add that high-impact glam. The best part? You can wear red lipstick with minimal eye makeup and still look polished.

💋 Try This: MAC Ruby Woo (a cult favorite with a matte finish) or Maybelline Color Sensational in Red Revival.

Pair it with a soft liner and keep your base clean — let your lips be the star.

2. Nude Pink – Soft & Sweet

A soft nude pink is that dependable everyday shade you can swipe on without thinking. It’s not too bold, not too boring — just that sweet middle ground that suits coffee dates, office meetings, and everything in between. What makes nude pink so special is how adaptable it is. For fair skin, it gives a flushed, rosy look that enhances your natural lip tone. For medium and tan skin, it adds a soft femininity without washing you out. On deeper skin, this shade acts as a soft contrast and pairs beautifully with darker liners to give that gradient effect.

This shade works wonders when you’re going heavy on the eyes — like smoky eyes or graphic liners. It tones things down while still keeping your lips defined and pretty.

💋 Try This: Charlotte Tilbury Pillow Talk is a universal favorite with good reason. Also try NYX Soft Matte Lip Cream in Stockholm for a budget-friendly alternative.

To elevate the look, dab a bit of clear gloss on top and watch your lips look fuller in seconds.

3. Deep Plum – Bold & Beautiful

Deep plum lipstick isn’t for the faint-hearted — and that’s exactly why it’s so captivating. This rich, dramatic shade brings depth to your face and creates an instantly edgy vibe. It’s a favorite during fall and winter, but honestly? You can rock plum year-round if you’re feeling bold. It’s perfect for evening events or any time you want your lips to do all the talking.

On deeper skin tones, plum melts into the lips in the most luxurious way. It enhances melanin-rich complexions without overpowering them. On fair or medium skin, it gives that moody, mysterious contrast — think grunge with a modern twist.

Plum shades can be tricky in texture, though. Go for formulas that aren’t too patchy and have a satin or creamy matte finish so they glide on smoothly.

💋 Try This: Fenty Beauty Mattemoiselle in Griselda or Revlon Super Lustrous Lipstick in Black Cherry.

Pair it with neutral eye makeup and softly contoured cheeks to balance the boldness.

4. Coral Crush – Bright & Sunny

Coral lipstick is like sunshine in a tube. It adds a youthful, energetic glow to your face that’s perfect for spring and summer. The great thing about coral is that it walks the line between pink and orange — which means it plays well with both warm and cool undertones. If you’re fair, coral can warm you up. On medium to olive skin, it enhances your golden glow. And on deep skin, it adds a fresh pop that stands out beautifully.

Coral shades can be worn matte for a clean, modern vibe or in glossy form for that dewy summer look. It’s also a great transitional color if you’re tired of wearing pinks but not quite ready for orange or red.

💋 Try This: L’Oréal Paris Colour Riche in Volcanic or MAC Crosswires.

Tip: Coral looks amazing with bronzed cheeks and fluttery lashes. Keep the rest of your makeup dewy to match the brightness of the lips.

5. Brown Mocha – Earthy Elegance

Brown lipstick had a major comeback — and we’re so here for it. What was once seen as a ’90s-only vibe has now become a modern-day essential. Brown lipstick, especially mocha or chocolate tones, exudes warmth, strength, and confidence. It’s bold without being flashy and neutral without being boring.

Read more about 25 Missrose Creamy Matte Lipsticks

Mocha shades suit deeper skin tones like magic — they complement melanin without clashing. For lighter skin tones, brown lipsticks give that cool, editorial look that turns heads.

Brown lipstick is also super versatile. You can wear it alone for a statement, or pair it with a darker liner to give more dimension. Want to soften it? Tap a nude gloss in the center of your lips.

💋 Try This: NYX Lip Lingerie in Beauty Mark or Huda Beauty Power Bullet in Interview.

Make it your go-to when you’re in a neutral outfit or wearing earth-toned eyeshadows.

6. Mauve Magic – The Cool-Toned Queen

Mauve is that shade that doesn’t scream for attention — but you’ll definitely get noticed. Somewhere between dusty rose and soft purple, mauve is incredibly flattering and universally wearable. It’s especially great for cool undertones, but it also flatters neutral and olive skin beautifully.

Mauve lipstick brings sophistication. It’s great for when you want a polished look without going full glam. Use it on a workday, brunch date, or Zoom call — it pulls everything together subtly.

💋 Try This: Maybelline Creamy Matte in Touch of Spice or ColourPop Ultra Matte Lip in Lumière.

Mauve pairs well with soft brown or taupe eyeshadow and a bit of highlighter on the cheekbones. Understated, but effective.

7. Peachy Nude – Fresh & Flirty

Peach nude is a softer, more playful version of your everyday nude. It leans warm, giving a peachy flush that mimics a natural glow. For fair to medium skin tones, it adds warmth without being too orange. On deeper skin, it works beautifully when paired with a medium brown liner — it gives that snatched, contoured lip look that’s all over TikTok.

This shade is perfect for low-effort days when you still want to look put-together. Think beach days, weekend errands, or that cute coffee shop selfie. Peachy nudes also complement peach-toned blushes and golden highlighter really well.

💋 Try This: KKW Beauty Nude 3 or Milani Color Statement in Nude Crème.

Want extra dimension? Add a touch of gloss over the center of your lips — it’ll reflect light and make your pout look fuller.

8. Hot Pink – Loud & Fun

Hot pink is not shy, and neither are you when you wear it. It’s bright, bold, and full of personality. On fair skin, it pops like a highlighter in the best way. On deeper skin, hot pink adds vibrancy and looks luxe — especially when worn with dewy skin and soft blush.

It’s perfect for parties, photoshoots, summer festivals — or any time you want to feel unapologetically fun. Go for a long-wear formula to avoid touch-ups because these bright shades tend to smudge easily.

💋 Try This: MAC Candy Yum Yum or NYX Suede Matte in Pink Lust.

To balance the look, skip the heavy eye makeup and keep things fresh with mascara and soft brows.

9. Wine Red – Rich & Sophisticated

Wine lipstick shades have a romantic, luxurious feel to them. They’re deeper than classic reds, with hints of berry, burgundy, or merlot. These shades are especially flattering during the colder months but can work all year round if styled right.

Wine red flatters deeper skin tones beautifully, adding richness and drama. On fair skin, it offers that moody contrast that’s high fashion. If you’re in between, wine red adds elegance that’s not too over-the-top.

💋 Try This: Maybelline Divine Wine or NARS Velvet Matte in Scarlet Empress.

Keep your outfit simple when wearing wine lips — a black turtleneck or satin dress lets your lips do the talking

10. Terracotta – Warm & Spicy

Terracotta is a warm blend of orange, red, and brown — think of clay, autumn leaves, and spiced lattes. It’s rich, warm, and cozy without being dull. This lipstick shade brings a natural glow to all skin tones. For fair skin, it adds depth. On medium to deep skin, it complements golden or red undertones beautifully.

Terracotta lipstick is versatile. You can wear it in the office or on date night. It looks especially good with warm-toned makeup looks — bronzer, golden eyeshadow, and soft highlighter.

💋 Try This: Fenty Mattemoiselle in Freckle Fiesta or Milani Spiced Almond.

This is your “I don’t want to wear red, but I still want to look stunning” color.

Final Thoughts: Find Your Signature Lip

Lipstick is personal. It’s a reflection of how you feel, what mood you’re in, and sometimes — who you want to be that day. The shades above are not just trendy picks. They’re timeless, flattering, and flexible. Whether you’re building your first lipstick collection or revamping your makeup drawer, these ten colors are solid choices that’ll never let you down.

Read more about Miss Rose Matte Lipstick Set of 6

So go ahead — swatch, mix, layer, and most importantly, have fun. Because at the end of the day, lipstick should feel like you — just a little louder.