How to Wear Brown Lipstick
On Wednesdays We Wear . . . Brown Lipstick!
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In Mean Girls, the Plastics' cardinal rule was to wear pink on Wednesdays. While we're big pink fans, we think restricting to just one shade on a hump day is not so fetch. That's why we're using Wednesday to test out the hottest beauty trends on a variety of skin tones. We know that the biggest fads don't always seem wearable at first glance, especially when it comes to the fierce looks on the runway, but we're here to prove that even the most unusual looks can work for everyone — seriously! First up is a makeup-bag staple of the '90s: brown lipstick. Once you see us test a variety of shades and brands, you're bound to hop on the brown bandwagon yourself.
Bobbi Brown Lip Color in Chocolate
What color is this? Bobbi Brown Lip Color in Chocolate ($26)
Who's rocking it? Lauren Levinson, beauty editor
Where would you wear it? Though brown lipstick is a totally man-repeller trend, I'd still wear it out to a party (where my man was attending). It's sexy and vampy — and it shows confidence! I'd pair it with a t-shirt, leather jacket, and skinny jeans or LBD to make a powerful pout statement.
Tip for wearing your shade: Play with the texture and color! Either blot it with a tissue to create a subtle stain or top it with a copper or gold shimmer lip gloss to make it more feminine and add dimension. I layered OCC Lip Tar Metallic in Bronze Copper Frost ($18) to give it a cool shine effect.
MAC Cosmetics Lipstick in Film Noir
What color is this? MAC Cosmetics Lipstick in Film Noir ($16)
Who's rocking it? Jessica Cruel, assistant beauty editor
Where would you wear it? Something about the shade makes me want to party like it's 1989. So I'm going to be heading out to a throwback rooftop party where Janet Jackson's "Rhythm Nation" is sure to be on the playlist.
Tip for wearing your shade: While this is the perfect lip color for Fall, a good lip liner is crucial. I used OCC Cosmetic Color Pencil in Sebastian ($16). You especially want to focus on the inner lip area. After applying the shade directly from the tube, go back and focus on the bottom lip by dabbing in that area. Better yet, use a lip brush. Otherwise you could end up getting that dark lip liner look (which should stay in the '90s).
Make Silk Lipstick Cream in Tamarind
What color is this? Make Silk Lipstick Cream in Tamarind ($25)
Who's rocking it? Marina Liao, editorial intern
Where would you wear it? I'd wear this to an event or night out with friends. It's a completely different feel than the usual red lip, and you'll definitely stand out (in a good way)! It might not be your traditional go-to color, but with the right shade and a smile, anyone can pull off a brown lip.
Tip for wearing your shade: Make sure your face complexion is even before applying the brown lipstick to really make it pop! I would also find a lip liner in a similar color to make sure the shade stays put.
NYX Matte Lipstick in Maison
What color is this? NYX Matte Lipstick in Maison ($6)
Who's rocking it? Emily Orofino, beauty editorial assistant
Where would you wear it? This shade just gives off a warm, cozy vibe. I'd wear it on a lazy Sunday afternoon paired with an oversize sweater, jeans, and over-the-knee boots — either to go pumpkin picking with my boyfriend or just relax with a steaming mug of tea and the newspaper.
Tip for wearing your shade: It's essential to exfoliate your lips when wearing any dark lipstick. In a pinch, I make my own scrub by mixing a little bit of lip balm and sugar, then rubbing the blend into my lips. Also, I tend to be a blush addict (obviously!), but with this shade of brown, it would have been better to go barefaced save for a strong brow and matte skin.
Laura Mercier Crème Smooth Lip Color in Cocoa
What color is this? Laura Mercier Crème Smooth Lip Color in Cocoa ($27)
Who's rocking it? Aemilia Madden, editorial assistant
Where would you wear it? My moody deep brown is an homage to the punky pouts of the '90s, and though it's honestly a little too much for me to rock from 9 to 5, it's a great shade to put on once the sun sets. I envision myself rocking this hue, posted up in a Brooklyn bar dancing to Destiny's Child with my girlfriends.
Tip for wearing your shade: My tip for making brown lipstick work is to embrace the edge. It just won't match a girlier look, so break out your blacks and leather, and you're good to go.
Revlon Super Lustrous Lipstick in Coffee Bean
What color is this? Revlon Super Lustrous Lipstick in Coffee Bean ($8)
Who's rocking it? Rona Horowitz, editorial intern
Where would you wear it? I would wear this lip color for almost any Fall outing. Visiting a pumpkin patch, apple picking, or hay rides — you name it! The light brown hue makes a statement without overpowering me.
Tip for wearing your shade: Since your lip will really be the focal point of your look, I'd recommend leaving your eyes more subtle. Just a few coats of mascara, and you'll be channeling Cindy Crawford circa 1990.
