Only 3 Products and 4 Steps Are Needed to DIY This Summery Ombré Lip

The first color to reach for is the pink shade — this is your base and should match the liner. Apply it with a brush, such as the Dolce & Gabbana Retractable Lip Brush ($33). McCulloch promises this tool gives you more control, deeper pigment, and longer wear (since the formula is not sliding around).

"Just go across the bottom lip with the brush and then rub the lips together," he said. "The excess color transfers from the bottom lip to the top, and you just leave your edges to stay a bit matte and dry."

The technique makes the look more long-lasting, because you are relying on the dry pencil to hold the shape, whereas creamy lipsticks smear off. "The moisture in the center — kind of like a Lindt chocolate truffle ball," he joked. "It's moist in the center and crisp on the outside."