The Lipstick Shades You’ll Be Wearing All Summer

When summer arrives, we put away our all-black wardrobe in favour of garden brights that make us feel happy. Same goes for our lipstick wardrobe. Daring shades can make us feel confident in an instant, and they tend to go perfectly with our sudden penchant for rainbow-coloured dresses. A bold lip will even liven up basic white, for that matter. If you only do one thing to switch up your beauty routine when the warmer months hit, let it be a statement lip. It’s hands down the easiest way to get in on the hottest summer makeup looks this year. You just need to figure out what colour lipstick to wear that is most likely to flatter your features. And just like that, you’re put together.

First, a few tips on choosing the right formula. When it comes to glossy versus matte lip colour, personal preference reigns supreme. But if you really want to rock a bright lip this summer, matte is it. These formulas contain the maximum amount of pigment compared to those of satin, moisturizing or sheer lippies. They’re also made with more wax and less oil, which makes for richer, opaque colour. The best matte lipstick you can find these days comes in the form of a liquid lipstick. It’s known for its long-wear superpowers, so your bold colour won’t fade with your morning coffee.

One thing to note is that matte liquid lipsticks are drier in texture by design, so if you suffer from parched lips, you may want to do a little prep before applying. The night before, use a gentle lip exfoliator to buff away any peeling skin. Even if there aren’t any obvious flakes, it’s a good idea to cleanse the area with a warm washcloth for the smoothest surface. Apply a hydrating lip balm well in advance; you don’t want any oils directly under your liquid lipstick as this can cause the colour to move around.

The best liquid lipstick should deliver intense pigment in a super-thin, non-drying formula to avoid any pilling, like L’Oréal Paris Rouge Signature Lipstick. The precision applicator also allows you to get into corners and the Cupid’s bow without using a lip liner. Stay away from any liquid lipsticks that feel tacky or gummy when you press your lips together—comfort is just as important as long-lasting, even tone.

So, what are the trendiest lip tones this summer? Coral, orange and mauve are the most-searched-for shades on the internet right now—and with good reason. An alternative to traditional red, these ultra-saturated brights have a distinct, fresh quality. And because they’re less expected, wearing them transforms your look completely, with surprising wow factor.

Now, how to choose a lipstick colour. Aside from being the colour of the year, coral is pretty much universally flattering on all skin tones, thanks to its tinges of both warm and cool undertones. Best described as a pinkish or reddish orange, it’s easier to pull off than straight pink or orange. Try L’Oréal Paris Rouge Signature Lipstick in I Don’t.

Orange lipstick can be a little intimidating, but if you’ve already tried coral, give this citrusy alternative a whirl. True orange looks amazing on fair skin. If you have more of a tanned or olive complexion, go a little deeper in tone. Dark skin tones can go with slightly “burnt” variations, though poppy orange will look stunning on you, too. Try L’Oréal Paris Rouge Signature Lipstick in I Radiate.

Mauve lipstick by definition falls squarely between pink and purple, and it’s arguably the bravest of this summer’s biggest lip colours. Slightly pink, dusty mauves are a nice entrée for those with fair skin, while medium skin tones might prefer a deeper mauve with red or plum undertones. For dark skin tones, taupe mauves are super-wearable. Try L’Oréal Paris Rouge Signature Lipstick in I Represent. 

Regardless of these tips for finding your best shade, remember: The whole idea this summer is “The brighter the better.” Hair and eye colour count for a lot, too, so sometimes you just have to try it to see if you like it.