What Color Lipstick Should I Wear & 7 Quick Tips for a Gorgeous Pout

woman with red lipstick - What Color Lipstick Should I Wear
woman with red lipstick - What Color Lipstick Should I Wear
woman with red lipstick - What Color Lipstick Should I Wear

Dante Kim

May 29th, 2024

Get your color analysis done
in 60 seconds with WhatColors!

Get your color analysis done in
60 seconds with WhatColors!

Get your color analysis done in 60 seconds with WhatColors!

Are you struggling to find the perfect lipstick shade that complements your complexion and makes you feel confident? Understanding what colors suit you can seem like a daunting task, but! In this blog, we'll guide you on what color lipstick should I wear. Know how to find colors that suit you, helping you look prettier by understanding your personal colors.

By using WhatColors's AI personal color analysis tool, you can effortlessly pinpoint the colors that suit you best and enhance your features. This handy solution is your go-to guide for achieving your goal of looking prettier by understanding your personal colors, making the process of finding the ideal lipstick shade a breeze.

Table of Contents



What Is Lipstick Color Theory?


woman with dark red lipstick  - What Color Lipstick Should I Wear


Lipstick color theory is key to achieving a polished makeup look that complements your unique features. By grasping the principles of color theory, you can confidently choose lipstick shades that enhance your natural beauty.


Why Lipsticks Look Different on Various Skin Tones


Skin tone and undertones play a crucial role in how lipstick colors appear on different individuals. Whether you have fair or deep skin, your undertones influence how a lipstick will look against your complexion. Consider the depth of your skin tone as well as undertones when selecting a lipstick hue that flatters your features.

Related Reading


How To Know What Colors Look Good On You
What Colors Look Good On Pale Skin
What Color Blush Should I Wear
Colors That Go With Tan
What Color Jewelry Should I Wear

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Lipstick Color


woman giving a flying kiss - What Color Lipstick Should I Wear


Skin Tone


The same shade of red lipstick can look gorgeous on many different skin colors. With that in mind, don't feel like you're limited to dark shades of lipstick if you have dark skin, or pale shades if you have light skin. What matters most is your skin's undertones. From there, it's all about personal preferences, creative expression, and the look you're trying to achieve.

Complexion Undertones


The secret to finding the perfect lipstick for your skin tone? Identify your complexion undertone. (Plus, once you've done this, you can use this wisdom for everything from blush to foundation to nail polish.)

Cool


People with cool undertones have a pink, red, or even slightly blue hue to their skin. One trick for determining your undertone is to look at your veins. If you have a cool complexion, your veins will appear bluer.

Warm


Warm complexions lean a bit more golden or yellow. People with warm undertones typically have veins that look slightly green.

Neutral


Those with neutral undertones have neither warm nor cool complexions but rather sit somewhere in the middle. Their veins often appear blueish green. Neutral complexions can get away with just about any color!

Matching Lipstick Undertones to Your Skin Tone


Lipstick shades also feature neutral, warm, and cool undertones. Generally speaking, you'll find that the most flattering lipstick colors have the same undertones as your skin. For example, when choosing a red lipstick, consider whether it leans blue/purple or orange/yellow. The former dazzles on cool undertones, while the latter looks stunning on warm undertones. This same rule applies to pinks, mauves, browns, and everything in between.

Some colors are inherently warm or cool, so you can take that into consideration as well. For example, orange lipstick is inherently warm toned and may suit people with warm or neutral complexions best. And fuchsia is almost always a cool-leaning color, which means it may work best on people with cool undertones.

Eye Color


Though not quite as important as your undertone, your eye color is another factor to consider when searching for the most flattering shade of lipstick. Choose a hue that's opposite your eye color on the color wheel. To make it easy, we've identified the lipstick shades that commonly complement each eye color.

Blue eyes


Coral, peach, bronze, and copper

Green eyes


Berry, plum, mauve, brown, and terra cotta

Brown eyes


Deep red, burgundy, and rosy pink

Hazel eyes


Warm brown, neutral mauve, golden red, and copper

Unlock your colors and transform your style with WhatColors’ AI Personal Color Analysis app. Download our app for free today on the App Store or Google Play store.

What Color Lipstick Should I Wear?


different shades of lipstick - What Color Lipstick Should I Wear


Cool Undertone


When it comes to cool undertones, blue and purple-toned lipsticks are the way to go. Shades like pink, rose, mauve, plum, and others in the same color family are perfect for those with cool undertones. These shades will enhance your natural cool undertone and make your lips pop.

Warm Undertone


For individuals with warm undertones, lipsticks in warm shades are the best choice. Think brick reds, bold oranges, and terracotta browns. Depending on your skin tone, opt for a paler shade if you have light skin or a richer color if you have darker skin. These warm hues will complement your undertone and give you a natural, effortless look.

Neutral Undertone


With a neutral undertone, the possibilities are endless. You can choose from a variety of lipstick shades and other cosmetics without worrying about whether they will suit your undertone. Pink hues work well for fair skin, mauve shades complement medium skin tones, and berry tones enhance deep skin tones. Embrace the versatility of your neutral undertone and experiment with different lipstick shades.

Office Wear Lipstick Shades


1. Mauve—Goes with Every Skintone


Mauve lipstick is a versatile choice for office wear that suits every skin tone. This dusty rose color adds vibrance to your face and instantly makes you look office-ready.

2. Brown—Subtle Yet Powerful for Any Look


Brown lipstick shades are making a comeback and are perfect for formal wear. Choose a shade darker than your skin tone to avoid a goth look and achieve a sophisticated appearance.

3. Nude—Works for Any Formal or Smart Casual Outfit!


Nude lipstick is a classic choice for a minimal, sophisticated look that complements any formal attire. Opt for a shade with pink undertones and a glossy finish for a healthy, natural look.

4. Berry—the Perfect Lipstick Shade for a Cheerful Friday at Work


Berry-color lipstick adds a pop of color to your look and is ideal for a cheerful Friday at work. With shades ranging from light to dark, there's a berry hue for every complexion.

5. Natural Pink—Great for Meetings AND Parties


Soft pink lipstick offers a subtle, feminine look that is perfect for both meetings and parties. Choose a shade that matches your natural lip color for a polished appearance.

6. Red—Perfect for Even Work, If Worn Correctly


Red lipstick can be empowering when worn correctly at the office. Keep the rest of your makeup minimal and balance your outfit to pull off a sophisticated red lip look.

7. Coral—Funky, Yet Sometimes a Great Choice for Office Looks


Coral lipstick adds a bold touch to your look and can work well in office environments when applied tastefully. For a lighter appearance, dab the coral shade lightly on your lips and balance it with neutral makeup elsewhere on your face.

Related Reading


What Color Should I Wear
Best Colors For Olive Skin
Colors For Cool Undertones
Best Colors For Warm Undertones
What Colors Look Good On Tan Skin
What Colors Look Best On Brown Skin
Best Colors For Cool Undertones
Best Colors For Warm Skin Tone
What Season Am I
What Color Looks Best on Me
What Is My Color
How to Find Your Color Palette
What's My Color Palette
What Color Season Am I

7 Quick Tips for Achieving a Gorgeous Pout


woman with pink lipstick color - What Color Lipstick Should I Wear


1. Prepare Your Lips


Always keep your lips moisturized with lip balm to prevent cracking and peeling that can ruin your lipstick application. Look for a lip balm with sun protection for better results.

2. Optional Step


Apply Primer or Foundation


Even out your lip color by applying a primer or a small amount of foundation before applying lipstick. This will help the lipstick to go on more evenly and prevent feathering.

3. Outline Your Lips with Lip Liner


Use a lip liner to outline the borders of your lips before applying lipstick. You can choose to outline before or after applying lipstick depending on personal preference. Some trends even suggest outlining slightly outside your lip line for a fuller look.

4. Apply the Lipstick


Use a small brush or apply the lipstick directly to your lips. Remove excess product by pressing your lips against a thin fabric or by using a brush and a small amount of translucent powder to set the lipstick in place.

5. Avoid Lipstick on Teeth


After applying lipstick, place a finger inside your mouth, close your lips, and pull your finger out to remove any product that may have transferred to your teeth.

6. Prevent Lipstick Transfer


To avoid lipstick transferring onto glasses, try licking your lips before taking a drink. Alternatively, opt for special lipsticks that don’t transfer.

7. Experiment with Trends


Have fun trying different lipstick trends to find the colors and shades that complement your skin tone.

By following these tips, you can achieve a flawless, long-lasting lipstick look that enhances your overall makeup appearance.

Related Reading


Best Colors for Winter Skin Tone
Best Colors For Yellow Undertones
What Color Prom Dress Should I Wear
Best Clothing Colors For Pale Skin Male
Best Colors For Light Skin
Best Clothing Colors For Fair Skin
What Color Eyeshadow Should I Wear
Best Colors For Light Brown Skin
What Does It Mean When A Color Washes You Out
Best Colors For Medium Skin Tone
What Color Eyeliner Should I Wear
What Colors Look Good On Pale Skin With Pink Undertones

Try AI Personal Color Analysis For Free Today


When it comes to choosing the right lipstick color, it's essential to consider your skin tone. WhatColors is a fantastic resource that can help you determine your ideal colors using its patented color match technology. This tool assesses your skin tone, eye color, and hair color to identify your season. By knowing your season, you can select colors that will complement your features and avoid those that clash with your skin tone. With WhatColors, you can also discover the perfect nail colors that suit you best.

Start using WhatColors today to unlock your ideal colors and transform your style for free. Simply download the app from the App Store or Google Play store and start experimenting with shades that will enhance your natural beauty.


Get your color analysis done
in 60 seconds with WhatColors!

Are you struggling to find the perfect lipstick shade that complements your complexion and makes you feel confident? Understanding what colors suit you can seem like a daunting task, but! In this blog, we'll guide you on what color lipstick should I wear. Know how to find colors that suit you, helping you look prettier by understanding your personal colors.

By using WhatColors's AI personal color analysis tool, you can effortlessly pinpoint the colors that suit you best and enhance your features. This handy solution is your go-to guide for achieving your goal of looking prettier by understanding your personal colors, making the process of finding the ideal lipstick shade a breeze.

Table of Contents



What Is Lipstick Color Theory?


woman with dark red lipstick  - What Color Lipstick Should I Wear


Lipstick color theory is key to achieving a polished makeup look that complements your unique features. By grasping the principles of color theory, you can confidently choose lipstick shades that enhance your natural beauty.


Why Lipsticks Look Different on Various Skin Tones


Skin tone and undertones play a crucial role in how lipstick colors appear on different individuals. Whether you have fair or deep skin, your undertones influence how a lipstick will look against your complexion. Consider the depth of your skin tone as well as undertones when selecting a lipstick hue that flatters your features.

Related Reading


How To Know What Colors Look Good On You
What Colors Look Good On Pale Skin
What Color Blush Should I Wear
Colors That Go With Tan
What Color Jewelry Should I Wear

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Lipstick Color


woman giving a flying kiss - What Color Lipstick Should I Wear


Skin Tone


The same shade of red lipstick can look gorgeous on many different skin colors. With that in mind, don't feel like you're limited to dark shades of lipstick if you have dark skin, or pale shades if you have light skin. What matters most is your skin's undertones. From there, it's all about personal preferences, creative expression, and the look you're trying to achieve.

Complexion Undertones


The secret to finding the perfect lipstick for your skin tone? Identify your complexion undertone. (Plus, once you've done this, you can use this wisdom for everything from blush to foundation to nail polish.)

Cool


People with cool undertones have a pink, red, or even slightly blue hue to their skin. One trick for determining your undertone is to look at your veins. If you have a cool complexion, your veins will appear bluer.

Warm


Warm complexions lean a bit more golden or yellow. People with warm undertones typically have veins that look slightly green.

Neutral


Those with neutral undertones have neither warm nor cool complexions but rather sit somewhere in the middle. Their veins often appear blueish green. Neutral complexions can get away with just about any color!

Matching Lipstick Undertones to Your Skin Tone


Lipstick shades also feature neutral, warm, and cool undertones. Generally speaking, you'll find that the most flattering lipstick colors have the same undertones as your skin. For example, when choosing a red lipstick, consider whether it leans blue/purple or orange/yellow. The former dazzles on cool undertones, while the latter looks stunning on warm undertones. This same rule applies to pinks, mauves, browns, and everything in between.

Some colors are inherently warm or cool, so you can take that into consideration as well. For example, orange lipstick is inherently warm toned and may suit people with warm or neutral complexions best. And fuchsia is almost always a cool-leaning color, which means it may work best on people with cool undertones.

Eye Color


Though not quite as important as your undertone, your eye color is another factor to consider when searching for the most flattering shade of lipstick. Choose a hue that's opposite your eye color on the color wheel. To make it easy, we've identified the lipstick shades that commonly complement each eye color.

Blue eyes


Coral, peach, bronze, and copper

Green eyes


Berry, plum, mauve, brown, and terra cotta

Brown eyes


Deep red, burgundy, and rosy pink

Hazel eyes


Warm brown, neutral mauve, golden red, and copper

Unlock your colors and transform your style with WhatColors’ AI Personal Color Analysis app. Download our app for free today on the App Store or Google Play store.

What Color Lipstick Should I Wear?


different shades of lipstick - What Color Lipstick Should I Wear


Cool Undertone


When it comes to cool undertones, blue and purple-toned lipsticks are the way to go. Shades like pink, rose, mauve, plum, and others in the same color family are perfect for those with cool undertones. These shades will enhance your natural cool undertone and make your lips pop.

Warm Undertone


For individuals with warm undertones, lipsticks in warm shades are the best choice. Think brick reds, bold oranges, and terracotta browns. Depending on your skin tone, opt for a paler shade if you have light skin or a richer color if you have darker skin. These warm hues will complement your undertone and give you a natural, effortless look.

Neutral Undertone


With a neutral undertone, the possibilities are endless. You can choose from a variety of lipstick shades and other cosmetics without worrying about whether they will suit your undertone. Pink hues work well for fair skin, mauve shades complement medium skin tones, and berry tones enhance deep skin tones. Embrace the versatility of your neutral undertone and experiment with different lipstick shades.

Office Wear Lipstick Shades


1. Mauve—Goes with Every Skintone


Mauve lipstick is a versatile choice for office wear that suits every skin tone. This dusty rose color adds vibrance to your face and instantly makes you look office-ready.

2. Brown—Subtle Yet Powerful for Any Look


Brown lipstick shades are making a comeback and are perfect for formal wear. Choose a shade darker than your skin tone to avoid a goth look and achieve a sophisticated appearance.

3. Nude—Works for Any Formal or Smart Casual Outfit!


Nude lipstick is a classic choice for a minimal, sophisticated look that complements any formal attire. Opt for a shade with pink undertones and a glossy finish for a healthy, natural look.

4. Berry—the Perfect Lipstick Shade for a Cheerful Friday at Work


Berry-color lipstick adds a pop of color to your look and is ideal for a cheerful Friday at work. With shades ranging from light to dark, there's a berry hue for every complexion.

5. Natural Pink—Great for Meetings AND Parties


Soft pink lipstick offers a subtle, feminine look that is perfect for both meetings and parties. Choose a shade that matches your natural lip color for a polished appearance.

6. Red—Perfect for Even Work, If Worn Correctly


Red lipstick can be empowering when worn correctly at the office. Keep the rest of your makeup minimal and balance your outfit to pull off a sophisticated red lip look.

7. Coral—Funky, Yet Sometimes a Great Choice for Office Looks


Coral lipstick adds a bold touch to your look and can work well in office environments when applied tastefully. For a lighter appearance, dab the coral shade lightly on your lips and balance it with neutral makeup elsewhere on your face.

Related Reading


What Color Should I Wear
Best Colors For Olive Skin
Colors For Cool Undertones
Best Colors For Warm Undertones
What Colors Look Good On Tan Skin
What Colors Look Best On Brown Skin
Best Colors For Cool Undertones
Best Colors For Warm Skin Tone
What Season Am I
What Color Looks Best on Me
What Is My Color
How to Find Your Color Palette
What's My Color Palette
What Color Season Am I

7 Quick Tips for Achieving a Gorgeous Pout


woman with pink lipstick color - What Color Lipstick Should I Wear


1. Prepare Your Lips


Always keep your lips moisturized with lip balm to prevent cracking and peeling that can ruin your lipstick application. Look for a lip balm with sun protection for better results.

2. Optional Step


Apply Primer or Foundation


Even out your lip color by applying a primer or a small amount of foundation before applying lipstick. This will help the lipstick to go on more evenly and prevent feathering.

3. Outline Your Lips with Lip Liner


Use a lip liner to outline the borders of your lips before applying lipstick. You can choose to outline before or after applying lipstick depending on personal preference. Some trends even suggest outlining slightly outside your lip line for a fuller look.

4. Apply the Lipstick


Use a small brush or apply the lipstick directly to your lips. Remove excess product by pressing your lips against a thin fabric or by using a brush and a small amount of translucent powder to set the lipstick in place.

5. Avoid Lipstick on Teeth


After applying lipstick, place a finger inside your mouth, close your lips, and pull your finger out to remove any product that may have transferred to your teeth.

6. Prevent Lipstick Transfer


To avoid lipstick transferring onto glasses, try licking your lips before taking a drink. Alternatively, opt for special lipsticks that don’t transfer.

7. Experiment with Trends


Have fun trying different lipstick trends to find the colors and shades that complement your skin tone.

By following these tips, you can achieve a flawless, long-lasting lipstick look that enhances your overall makeup appearance.

Related Reading


Best Colors for Winter Skin Tone
Best Colors For Yellow Undertones
What Color Prom Dress Should I Wear
Best Clothing Colors For Pale Skin Male
Best Colors For Light Skin
Best Clothing Colors For Fair Skin
What Color Eyeshadow Should I Wear
Best Colors For Light Brown Skin
What Does It Mean When A Color Washes You Out
Best Colors For Medium Skin Tone
What Color Eyeliner Should I Wear
What Colors Look Good On Pale Skin With Pink Undertones

Try AI Personal Color Analysis For Free Today


When it comes to choosing the right lipstick color, it's essential to consider your skin tone. WhatColors is a fantastic resource that can help you determine your ideal colors using its patented color match technology. This tool assesses your skin tone, eye color, and hair color to identify your season. By knowing your season, you can select colors that will complement your features and avoid those that clash with your skin tone. With WhatColors, you can also discover the perfect nail colors that suit you best.

Start using WhatColors today to unlock your ideal colors and transform your style for free. Simply download the app from the App Store or Google Play store and start experimenting with shades that will enhance your natural beauty.


Unlock Your Colors,
Transform Your Style

Get your color analysis done in 60 seconds!