First of all, the choice of the right lipstick color is not only a matter of taste but also depends on the skin tone and undertone which are the main factors influencing how a color will look on you. The friend’s lipstick that seems gorgeous on her might not be the same impact on you, just like various skin tones and colors interact with each other in different ways. Therefore, a simple guide is given to lead you to a lipstick color that will naturally beautify you.
Lipstick Shades for Light Skin Tone: Soft, Fresh & Flattering
Light skin tones generally possess cool or neutral undertones, which is why some shades can make the face look brighter while the others may cause it to lose its liveliness.
Best Matches
Soft Pinks: Rose, blush, and baby pink add gentle freshness without overpowering your features. Pink-toned nudes also work beautifully.
Bold Reds & Deep Berries: Strawberry reds, cherry tones, and rich berry shades bring a striking contrast and glow to fair skin.
Corals: Ideal for daytime looks, offering a soft pop of colour.
Pro Tip: Avoid beige nudes as they tend to flatten light complexions.
Lipstick Shades for Medium Skin Tone: Warm, Versatile & Vibrant
Medium skin tones—often warm, neutral, or olive—pair well with a broad spectrum of lipstick colours.
Best Matches
Berry Shades: They enhance natural warmth and add an inviting vibrance.
Terracotta & Brick Reds: Burnt orange, metallic copper, and brick shades complement medium tones perfectly.
Mauves: A universally flattering choice that adds instant charm.
Pro Tip: Skip pale nudes; opt instead for brown- or pink-based nudes for a balanced look.
Lipstick Shades for Olive Skin Tone: Rich, Earthy & Unique
Olive skin has greenish or neutral undertones that pair well with deeper, more dramatic shades.
Best Matches
Warm Browns: Chocolate and caramel hues blend harmoniously with olive undertones.
Plum & Berry Shades: Deep purples add dimension and make the complexion look brighter.
Brick & Rusty Reds: These tones bring out olive skin’s warmth for a sultry finish.
Lipstick Shades for Deep Skin Tone: Bold, Luxe & High-Impact
Deep skin tones beautifully complement vibrant colours and rich pigments.
Best Matches
Bold Berries & Blackberries: These dramatic shades look velvety and luxurious.
Rich Reds: Cranberry, ruby, and wine tones are timeless and flattering.
Warm Chocolates & Espresso Nudes: Earthy browns with red or purple undertones tie the whole look together.
Universal Tips for Finding Your Perfect Shade
- Identify your undertone:
Cool (blue or pink), warm (yellow or golden), or neutral (a mix). - Use the vein test:
Blue veins = cool; green = warm; both = neutral. - Test in natural light:
Sunlight shows the truest colour. - Balance your makeup:
Bold lips call for subtle eyes and vice versa. - Wear what makes you feel confident:
Guidelines help—but your comfort matters most.