Finding the perfect lipstick finish (matte, but not flat or drying) and shade (bright, but still refined) can seem like a never-ending task. After all, just when you think you've found your signature formula, a new season of upgrades is waiting for you around the corner.
That pressure only increases when it comes time for the holidays — everything is dialed up several notches, and you need a richer [1] or sparklier lip [2] to rise to the occasion.
We hear you, which is why we've taken the liberty of rounding up drool-worthy [3] lipsticks that are as luxurious on the inside as they look on the outside.
From a garnet that will help you channel that Old Hollywood glam to a metallic plum that will bring spice to everything nice, keep reading for 10 picks that will take your holiday party look to the next level.
Bite Beauty Amuse Bouche Lipstick in Spiced Plum
Spice up your life with this limited-edition lipstick from Bite Beauty's Amuse Bouche collection [4] ($26). It features a metallic finish for added edge and is made of natural and food-grade ingredients so you don't need to worry about licking your lips.
L'Oréal Paris x Balmain Paris in Confidence
This subtle lipstick from L'Oréal Paris' collaboration with Balmain [5] ($14) gets a sparkly update with little golden flecks. Wear it as is or up the ante by topping it off with a high-shine lip gloss.
Yves Saint Laurent Rouge Pur Couture Dazzling Lights Edition Lipstick in Le Rouge
This deep red shade from the Yves Saint Laurent Rouge Pur Couture Dazzling Lights collection [6] ($37) complements a wide range of skin tones. We give it bonus points for the festive firework detailing along the lipstick and gold case.
Fenty Beauty by Rihanna Starlit Hyper-Glitz Lipstick in Gravity
This intergalactic-themed lipstick from the Fenty Beauty by Rihanna Holiday 2017 collection [7] ($19) features a buildable chrome sheen for customizing your special effects. Unlike some other glitter products, it also glides on smooth and is supermoisturizing (similar to a balm).
Too Faced Melted Matte Lipstick in Candy Cane
This hot pink-red shade formula from Too Faced [8] ($21) goes on like a gloss (great for really getting into those corners) and dries into a bold matte that won't budge. It also gives off a sweet peppermint mocha scent in case you find yourself under the mistletoe.
Estée Lauder Pure Color Love Lipstick in Juiced Up
This rich burgundy shade from the Estée Lauder Pure Color Love collection [9] ($22) is as sophisticated as it is stunning. The formula is also infused with a blend of superfruits, such as pomegranate, mango, and acai power oils for keeping lips nurtured (especially important for mattes as they can tend to be drying).
Lancôme L'absolu Rouge Lipstick in Peut-Etre
Make every day feel special with this soft pink rouge from Lancôme [10] ($32). The satiny finish provides a natural-looking sheen, and the formula contains Pro-Xylane and vitamin E for keeping lips hydrated and healthy over time.
Pat McGrath Labs MatteTrance Lipstick in Obsessed!
Say hello to your new obsession. This lipstick from the Pat McGrath Labs MatteTrance collection [11] ($38) strikes the perfect balance between orange and red for a fresh-meets-classic shade that commands the room. The lipstick-clad case and tube only add to its coolness factor.
Urban Decay Vice Lipstick in Rebel
Feminine mauve gets an edgy upgrade in this new shade from Urban Decay's Vice collection [12] ($17), which features a light metallic shimmer throughout. We especially love how creamy it feels on the lips (we couldn't stop rubbing them together!).
Dior Beauty Diorific Rouge Khol in Intense Garnet
This new garnet-inspired lipstick from Dior Beauty's Diorific Rouge Khol collection [13] ($38) oozes Old Hollywood glam. Swipe it on to add some retro flare to any party look (the velvety-matte formula will stay put for hours).