The 27 Best Red Lipsticks of 2021
27 Red Lipsticks For When You Want to Feel Like a Boss B*tch
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- Red lipstick is an essential makeup item that should be in every beauty collection.
- The perfect shade of red lipstick may be hard to find but many brands have created different shades to complement all skin tones.
- Prices may vary depending on the brand. However, you can still find the best red lipstick for under $10.
The same way a little black dress is essential in your closet, a red lipstick is a vital component of your makeup collection. It's the perfect hue for taking your look to the next level, whether you pair it with a cat eye and a full face of foundation or simply swipe on the shade and wear it alone.
But what are the best red lipsticks? Well, if you're especially into makeup, we recommend owning more than one. Cherry reds are ideal for when you are feeling retro and want to emulate your favorite pinup girl, while dark crimson is the sexy color that can make you feel like a femme fatale. In the summer, you may want to try out a warm orange-red or one with a glossy finish to complement the bright weather.
Regardless of how many red lipsticks you plan to add to your collection, we've got you covered. We've tried dozens of brands and shades to ensure we bring you the very best red lipstick for both fair skin and dark skin tones, and ranging in price from the best drugstore options to luxury splurges. Ahead, you'll find lipsticks with formulas that are lust-worthy and shades that are sure to flatter. Whether you're looking for the best matte red lipstick for a sophisticated look or the best shiny red lipstick for a glossy pop of color, our list will not disappoint you.
Tom Ford Lip Color in Cherry Crush
One glance at the Tom Ford Lip Color ($55) tube and you know you've reached the epitome of luxury and glamour. Inside the golden packaging, you'll find a smooth, buttery formula that's comfortable enough to wear daily. As for the color? Try the slightly pink Cherry Crush.
Wet N Wild MegaLast Catsuit Matte Lipstick in Spotlight Red
The Wet N Wild MegaLast Catsuit Matte Lipstick ($3) proves that you don't need a lot of money to get a quality product. The Stoplight Red shade will give you major color payoff on a budget.
Pat McGrath MatteTrance Lipstick in Fever Dream
The sienna-hued Pat McGrath MatteTrance Lipstick in Fever Dream ($38) is a velvety matte formula in a softer pinkish shade.
Fenty Beauty Mattemoiselle Plush Matte Lipstick in Ma'Damn
If you're usually not a fan of lipsticks, you'll love the balmy texture of the Fenty Beauty Mattemoiselle Plush Matte Lipstick ($18). It's not the least bit drying, and the Ma'Damn shade is a bright cherry worthy of Rihanna herself.
NYX Professional Makeup Matte Lipstick in Alabama
In one opaque swipe of NYX Professional Makeup Matte Lipstick in Alabama ($6), you'll fall in love. The slightly deep cherry hue is a good first step out of your true-red comfort zone.
E.L.F. Srsly Satin Lipstick in Red Carpet
The warm-toned E.L.F. Srsly Satin Lipstick in Red Carpet ($3) has a shiny finish and creamy formula that will make you feel like an Old Hollywood star.
Givenchy Le Rouge in Rouge Égérie
Not only will the black leather studded bullet of the Givenchy Le Rouge in Rouge Égérie ($36) bring you KonMari-level joy every time you see the tube, but the formula is also hydrating and buttery, with staying power. This blue-hued shade is great for a classic red look.
Armani Lip Maestro #400
Even those with the driest of lips will be able to wear the liquid formula of Armani Lip Maestro #400 ($34) with comfort. The texture is smooth, and the brick color is reminiscent of '90s style.
Hourglass Opaque Rouge Liquid Lipstick in Icon
Don't head to dinner without the Hourglass Opaque Rouge Liquid Lipstick in Icon ($28). The dark hue is sexy enough for a romantic night out and won't come off on your wine glass, or your date.
Milani Color Statement Lipstick in Tuscan Toast
Milani Color Statement Lipsticks ($5) are affordable, are reliable, and smell like a fruity drink. This wine shade of Tuscan Toast is a great way to make your look a little edgier.
Sephora Collection Cream Lip Stain in Always Red
POPSUGAR editors have long been obsessed with the creamy, no-transfer formula of the Sephora Collection Cream Lip Stain in Always Red ($13). The shade is a particularly popular pick for its ability to flatter many skin tones.
MAC Matte Lipstick in Ruby Woo
There might not be another lipstick shade that rivals the fame of MAC Matte Lipstick in Ruby Woo ($15). The blue-based red is so popular due to how the shade flatters almost anyone who tries it on.
Hourglass Confession Ultra Slim High Intensity Refillable Lipstick in I Live For
Hourglass has created the Confession Ultra Slim High Intensity Refillable Lipstick ($36), which is as beautiful as it is environmentally responsible. The thin tube makes it easy to apply precisely, and the hydrating formula is comfortable enough to wear in even the driest of climates. The shade I Live For is a vibrant coral-red that will look gorgeous on olive undertones.
Anastasia Beverly Hills Liquid Lipstick in American Doll
The blue-based Anastasia Beverly Hills Liquid Lipstick in American Doll ($20) is universally flattering and the classic red lip you need. It also stays on all day long.
Clinique Chubby Stick Moisturizing Lip Color Balm in Two Ton Tomato
The Clinique Chubby Stick Moisturizing Lip Color Balm in Two Ton Tomato ($19) is a tinted, easy-to-apply way of dipping your toes into the red pool. It will never dry out your lips and is as easy as "swipe on and go."
Nars Audacious Lipstick in Rita
You're bound to fall in love with the moisturizing formula of Nars Audacious Lipstick ($29) almost instantly. It is soft, without being overly slippery (and smearing all over your chin), and applies opaquely in a single swipe. Rita is a slightly deep flirty crimson that's a must-add to your makeup bag.
Stila Stay All Day Liquid Lipstick in Beso
Not only does the Stila Stay All Day Liquid Lipstick in Beso ($22) look seriously good on many complexions, but the staying power is also ultra impressive. Once you apply it, you can be sure it's not going anywhere.
Estée Lauder Pure Color Envy Sculpting Lipstick in Carnal
The nearly orange Estée Lauder Pure Color Envy Sculpting Lipstick in Carnal ($33) is a great departure from the classic crimson shade. Ideal for summer, it has a smooth formula and plenty of pigmentation.
Maybelline Color Sensational Made For All Lipstick in Wine For Me
Even the sheer selection of red shades within the Maybelline Color Sensational Made For All Lipstick ($6) line is impressive. Our favorite hue is Wine For Me, which will give you a slightly purple shade.
Too Faced Melted Matte Liquid Lipstick in Lady Balls
The Too Faced Melted Matte Liquid Lipstick in Lady Balls ($22) has a great formula if you're sick of drying liquid lipsticks. This one doesn't completely dry down, so you'll never experience that crusty feeling. Ruby is a classic cardinal shade that you're sure to love.
KVD Beauty Everlasting Longwear Liquid Lipstick in Outlaw
Though the KVD Beauty Everlasting Longwear Liquid Lipstick ($21) has a matte finish, it is packed with moisturizing vitamins, like vitamin E, and is completely vegan.
Fenty Beauty Stunna Lip Paint Longwear Fluid Lip Color in Uncensored
If you want a bold red that will fit you no matter what your skin tone is, you must consider the Fenty Beauty Stunna Lip Paint Longwear Fluid Lip Color in Uncensored ($25). This universal red is extremely pigmented and will surely last throughout your entire day.
Yves Saint Laurent Rouge Volupté Shine Lipstick Balm in Rouge Tuxedo
Need something buildable? Try the Yves Saint Laurent Rouge Volupté Shine Lipstick Balm in Rouge Tuxedo ($38). You can choose whether you want a subtle tint of color or a bold statement. Either way, your lips will thank you for this lipstick's moisturizing qualities.
The Lip Bar Vegan Matte Liquid Lipstick in Hot Mama
Hot Mama is correct. Once you put on The Lip Bar's Vegan Matte Liquid Lipstick ($13), your lips will be a fashion statement all their own.
Rare Beauty Lip Soufflé Matte Cream Lipstick in Inspire
People are raving about this lipstick for a reason. The Rare Beauty Lip Soufflé Matte Cream Lipstick in Inspire ($20) is lightweight and packed with pigment, and it hydrates the lips while leaving a soft matte finish.
Smashbox Always On Longwear Matte Liquid Lipstick in Bang Bang
Infused with jojoba and apricot oils, the Smashbox Always On Longwear Matte Liquid Lipstick in Bang Bang ($18) is the long-wear product you need. Plus, its built-in primer leaves no room for pigment smudges.
BareMinerals Mineralist Hydra-Smoothing Lipstick in Courage
Prefer a sleek and shiny finish? Try the BareMinerals Mineralist Hydra-Smoothing Lipstick in Courage ($20). This lipstick applies as smooth as butter, minus the mess.
