The Perfect Lipstick Shade: How to Choose the Right Color for Your Makeup Look

Importance of Shade Selection

Sometimes it’s really difficult to know how to choose the right lipstick shade. As a Pro MUA with over 15 years experience, listen when I tell you that your lipstick has the power to transform your makeup look entirely. Applying the right shade can enhance your features, complement your skin tone, and tie your whole look together instantly. But with so many options available such as bold reds, soft nudes, deep berries, and everything in between – it can feel overwhelming to choose the right one. I’ve spent years experimenting with shades on all different skin tones and makeup styles, and I’m here to help you pick the perfect lip color every time. First, let’s get a better understanding of our skin tone shall we…

Understanding Your Skin’s Undertone

Before choosing a lipstick shade, you need to know your skin’s undertone. Knowing this allows you to understand how color works with or against your complexion.

Cool Undertones: Your skin has pink, red, or bluish hues. The best lip colors for you are blue-based reds, rosy pinks, plums, and mauves. Avoid overly warm shades that can look too orange on your skin.
Warm Undertones: Your skin has yellow, golden, or olive tones. The best lip colors for you are warm reds, peachy nudes, corals, and terracotta shades. Brown-based hues will enhance your natural warmth.
Neutral Undertones: Your skin has a balance of both cool tones and warm tones. Lucky you — most lipstick shades will suit you! You can experiment with just about anything including pinks, classic reds, and even deep browns.

Quick Tip: If you aren’t certain of your undertone, assess the color of your wrist veins. Blue veins typically indicate a cool undertone, while green veins suggest a warm undertone.

Find my favorite Lip options HERE

Choosing the Right Lipstick for Your Makeup Look

Your lipstick should complement—not compete with—the rest of your makeup. Here’s how to pair shades with different looks:

Everyday Makeup

Use soft nudes, pinks, and MLBB (my lips but better) shades.
Satin and creamy finishes give a natural, effortless glow.
Avoid too dark of colors or matte if you want a fresh, youthful look.

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Bold, Dramatic Eyes

When your eye makeup is the main focus (think smoky eyes or colorful shadows), balance it out with a subtle lip.
Light pinks, beige nudes, and sheer glosses such as my absolute favorite moisturizing lipgloss work best to keep the attention on your eyes.

Classic Red Lip

A red lip shade is timeless and commands attention.
Keep the rest of your makeup minimal—soft bronzer, neutral eyeshadow, and a subtle highlight pair perfectly with bold red lips.
Choose a blue-based red for a cool, sophisticated vibe or an orange-red for a warm, summer-ready look.

Monochromatic Makeup

Matching your lipstick to your blush and eyeshadow creates a chic, put-together effect.
Peach tones for warm skin, rosy pinks for cool skin, and mauve shades for neutral skin look stunning.

Glam Night Out

Deep plums, rich berries, and chocolate browns add a little bit of drama to any evening look.
Pair with glowing skin, bold lashes, and a soft smoky eye to keep it balanced.

Lipstick Formulas: Matte, Glossy, Satin — Which One Is Best?

When it comes to lipstick, your texture is just as important as the shade you select. Here’s a quick guide to ensure you select the right finish:

Matte: Long-lasting, bold color with a velvety, shine-free finish. Best for high-impact looks but can be drying.
Satin: A balance between shine and subtlety. Lightweight feel with a smooth, natural finish.
Glossy: Adds shine and volume to the lips. Great for youthful, fresh makeup looks.
Lip Tints/Stains: Sheer washes of color that look effortless and last all day without feeling heavy.

Check out my favorite semi matte lipstick here

Your Perfect Lipstick Awaits

The next time you want to know how to choose the right lipstick shade, keep in mind that the perfect lipstick isn’t just about color — it’s about having confidence in your makeup look the entire day. Wearing a shade that makes you feel beautiful is the ultimate goal. Test different shades, play with textures, and most importantly, allow your creative side to come out and play. Makeup is meant to be expressive, so don’t be afraid to step out of the norm and try something out.