Some makeup looks are subtle, and some are designed to be the main event. A statement lip falls firmly into the second category. It’s the fastest way to elevate your entire look, taking you from everyday casual to instantly glam with just one swipe. The right lip color can boost your confidence, express your mood, and ensure all eyes are on you.

This season is all about embracing bold, unapologetic color. Forget playing it safe—it's time for rich reds, deep berries, and high-shine glosses that demand attention. These are the lip colors that don’t just complete a look; they are the look. If you’re ready to make your pout the star of the show, here are the lip colors you need in your makeup bag.

The Power Red: Timeless and Fierce

A classic red lip is the ultimate power move. It's confident, timeless, and universally flattering. A swipe of red lipstick can make you feel instantly put-together, whether you’re pairing it with a simple t-shirt and jeans or a full-on glam outfit. The key to a modern red lip is a flawless matte finish that stays put all day.

  • Fenty Beauty Stunna Lip Paint in 'Uncensored': There's a reason this product is a cult favorite. It’s described as the perfect universal red, and it truly lives up to the hype. The formula is a weightless, long-wearing liquid lipstick that dries down to a soft matte finish without feeling dry or tight. The unique wand makes application precise, so you can get that sharp, clean line every time. It’s a bold, head-turning red that looks incredible on every skin tone.
  • MAC Cosmetics Retro Matte Lipstick in 'Ruby Woo': You can't talk about red lipstick without mentioning this icon. 'Ruby Woo' is a legendary blue-toned red with an intensely pigmented, ultra-matte finish. It has a unique texture that grips the lips, ensuring it won’t budge for hours. This is the lipstick you wear when you want to make a serious statement. It’s a vibrant, cool-toned red that makes your teeth look whiter and your confidence soar.
  • NARS Powermatte Lip Pigment in 'Starwoman': For a liquid lipstick that feels as light as ink, this formula is a must-try. 'Starwoman' is a vivid blue-red that delivers concentrated color in a single swipe. The formula is incredibly thin and lightweight, so you barely feel it on your lips. It dries down to a smudge-proof matte finish that offers incredible staying power without flaking.

The Glossy Nude: Your Lips, But Better

A glossy nude lip is the epitome of effortless chic. It gives you that plump, juicy, "your lips but better" look that is both natural and incredibly alluring. This isn't about a barely-there nude; it's about a high-shine, dimensional color that makes your lips look full and healthy. It’s the perfect finishing touch for a smoky eye or a fresh, dewy skin look.

  • Fenty Beauty Gloss Bomb Universal Lip Luminizer in 'Fenty Glow': This is the gloss that changed the game. 'Fenty Glow' is a shimmering rose nude that was designed to be the perfect shade for everyone. The formula is non-sticky and packed with shea butter, so it feels incredibly nourishing on the lips. The high-impact shine and addictive peach-vanilla scent make it a pleasure to wear. It’s the perfect gloss for adding a touch of glamour to any look.
  • Dior Addict Lip Maximizer Plumping Gloss: If you want a glossy nude with a little extra something, this plumping gloss is for you. It provides instant volume and a beautiful, high-shine finish while hydrating the lips with hyaluronic acid. The formula has a refreshing, minty tingle that makes your lips feel full and revitalized. It comes in a range of sheer, gorgeous nude shades that enhance your natural lip color.
  • Tower 28 Beauty ShineOn Lip Jelly: For a clean, non-sticky gloss that’s good for your lips, look no further. This lip jelly has the shine of a gloss, the comfort of a balm, and a touch of translucent color. Made with nourishing oils like apricot and raspberry seed, it’s a gloss you can feel good about wearing. The shades offer a beautiful, glassy finish that makes your lips look healthy and hydrated.

The Bold Berry: Deep and Dramatic

When you want to channel a bit of mystery and drama, a bold berry lip is the perfect choice. Deeper shades like plum, wine, and blackberry are incredibly chic, especially for the evening or during cooler months. A berry lip is sophisticated and edgy, adding a touch of vampy glamour to your makeup.

  • Charlotte Tilbury Matte Revolution Lipstick in 'Festival Magic': Formerly known as 'Glastonberry', this shade is a gorgeous, deep blackberry color. The Matte Revolution formula is famous for being comfortable and hydrating, despite its matte finish. It contains 3D glowing pigments that create the illusion of fuller, wider lips. This shade is perfect for creating a sultry, rock-and-roll-inspired look.
  • Pat McGrath Labs MatteTrance Lipstick in 'McMenamy': From the mother of makeup herself, this lipstick is pure luxury. 'McMenamy' is a deep, blackened burgundy that delivers intensely saturated color with a lightweight, creamy matte feel. The formula is packed with optical diffusers that blur imperfections and create a soft-focus effect. It’s a dramatic, high-fashion shade that is surprisingly wearable.
  • Rare Beauty Lip Soufflé Matte Lip Cream in 'Transform': This unique formula has a whipped, airy texture that feels amazing on the lips. 'Transform' is a deep wine shade that provides rich color with a soft, velvety matte finish. It’s hydrating and comfortable to wear, and it won't cake or dry out your lips. It’s a modern, wearable take on a bold berry lip.

The Pop of Pink: Fun and Flirty

A bright, vibrant pink is an instant mood-booster. It’s playful, fun, and brings a youthful energy to your look. Forget soft, subtle pinks—we’re talking about hot fuchsias and bold magentas that stand out. A pop of pink is perfect for summer days, fun nights out, or any time you want to feel extra vibrant.

  • NARS Audacious Lipstick in 'Greta': This lipstick is the definition of a statement pink. 'Greta' is a wild azalea shade that is bright, bold, and incredibly creamy. The Audacious formula delivers intense, single-stroke coverage with a soft satin finish. It’s a luxurious and long-wearing lipstick that feels as good as it looks.
  • Huda Beauty Power Bullet Matte Lipstick in 'Spring Break': This lipstick is known for its incredible pigmentation and comfortable matte formula. 'Spring Break' is a vivid hot pink that is unapologetically bright. The custom-pointed tip makes for a precise application, and the formula is infused with sweet almond oil to keep lips hydrated.

Life is too short for boring lipstick. Embracing a bold lip color is one of the easiest ways to express your personal style and boost your confidence.