Red Lipstick Is Like A Little Black Dress: Here’s Why

A little black dress (LBD) is the perfect go-to for a night out. But what’s the makeup equivalent of a LBD?

That’s easy: red lipstick.

Just like how a LBD is a timeless wardrobe staple, red lipstick is a timeless makeup must-have that should be a part of everyone’s core collection. It’s true: everyone needs a go-to red lipstick to add a pop of color and complete their night-out look. Finding the perfect shade of red lipstick will take your look to the next level because it makes for the ultimate bold statement that never goes out of style. Just like the Hollywood icons of the past who wore and adored red lips, a classic red lipstick is something that will truly stand the test of time. 

If you’re curious about the best red lipstick to invest in, keep reading for our top picks. —Samantha Vecchiarelli

Guerlain 

Guerlain’s iconic Rouge G Customisable Ultra-Care Lipstick in shade 510 Le Rouge Vibrant (Satin) is the ultimate red lip that is highly pigmented and long-wearing. A true symbol of glamour, this will be your new go-to for a night out because it adds a sense of allure and vibrancy to any look. Plus, the formula is 89% skincare-based and exclusively developed with natural-origin waxes, offering a comfortable, high-impact finish when applied. 

The best part? You can customize your Rouge G purchase by selecting a case to complete the lipstick. Choose from New case options such as the Pucci Collection’s Marmo Kiss design, or Patterned, Timeless, and Glam variations that are specially crafted to give your lipstick an elevated touch. 

Rare Beauty by Selena Gomez

Rare Beauty’s Kind Words Matte Lipstick in shade Devoted is buttery soft and vibrant, offering the perfect true red shade with long-lasting capabilities that will easily take you from day to night. Although it features a matte finish, it feels super comfortable on the lips thanks to a nourishing, flexible, and moisturizing formula. 

COVERGIRL

COVERGIRL’s Clean Lip Color in Cherrywood is a must-have cherry-red-lip-leaning shade that features full coverage and lasting color for the perfect pout. The brand’s formula is vegan and made without Parabens, Talc, or Mineral Oil. It’s also 100% Carmine-free and contains zero animal by-products. If you’re on the hunt for an affordable lippie that’s highly pigmented and doesn’t smudge, bleed, or feather then this is the one for you!

Gucci 

Gucci’s Velvet Matte Lipstick in 509 – Rosso Ancora is the most delicious cranberry scarlet shade that makes for the perfect fall/winter red lip. Offering a dramatic color that’s rich in pigment with a matte finish, this lipstick feels silky soft when applied due to a blend of oils and gelling waxes that don’t dry out lips. The formula is also ultra-lightweight.

If you’re after a more true red from the collection, shade 25* Goldie Red is known as the Gucci Red Matte.

Nars

Nars’ Explicit Refillable Satin Lipstick in color Unauthorized – 863 is a bold true red that offers a satin finish. The hydrating formula features Hyaluronic Acid and Rosehip Seed Oil to help keep lips moisturized, while the integration of Color Sculpt Technology ensures a vibrant, intense color payoff. When it comes to the shape of the lipstick bullet, the new precision tip helps to hug the lips and create stunning definition, ensuring an overall radiant look.