Let’s begin by stating the obvious: It’s never too late to become a lipstick girl. Whether you’ve previously been someone who loves swiping on a statement red lip for a night out, who has always kept your go-to neutral buried at the bottom of your purse, or who has really never worn lipstick ever, 2021 is the time to enjoy the makeup accessory for what it is: fabulously fun. We’ve rounded up all the different lipsticks to try out throughout the year, from collagen-boosting, skin-nourishing formulas to come-hither bright color options to strikingly bold matte finishes. We’ve even thrown in one or two barely-there balmy tints that are perfect for those beginning their lipstick journey.
Ultimate Classic: Dior Rouge Dior Refillable Lipstick
This tube is nothing less than iconic, and its most famous color has to be the 999 shade that was first formulated back in 1953. It’s an absolutely perfect true red that makes its incredible quality known upon first swipe.
If you’re not so into a bold red lip, you can choose from a bevy of neutral and pinks to keep in your daily rotation. There are over 40 shades total, which range from a matte finish to satin to metallic.
Favorite Drugstore: L’Oréal Colour Riche Original Satin Lipstick
Great for leaving lips feeling moisturized instead of dry or sticky, this classic tube always brings on the compliments. Amongst over 50 color options, you’re bound to land on a new signature shade in no time. Start with a neutral and work up to a bold boysenberry. The price point certainly doesn’t hurt, either
Great for Mature Lips: IT Cosmetics Pillow Lips Collagen-Infused Lipstick
Line-smoothing collagen and hydrating hyaluronic acid are two of the not-so-secret ingredients that will keep your lips smiling, and they help this lipstick do way more than deliver long-lasting color. Even better, each shade comes in both a matte and cream formula option—because we all have our preferences.
READ MORE: TOP 5 RAY-BAN SUNGLASSES
Best for Sheer Tint: Bobbi Brown Crushed Shine Jelly Stick
This grab-and-go tube is as stinking cute as the sheer, high-shine formula once it’s applied to your lips. It gives a juicy wash of color that is perfect for the more low-maintenance women out there who desire a natural flush of color. As for the flush of choice, pick your poison: a super neutral pink-beige, a plummy berry,
Best Swipe-and-Go Stick: Clinique Almost Lipstick
The sheer, raisin Black Honey shade of this “almost” lipstick deserves every ounce of praise it has received over the years—and it recently celebrated its 30th anniversary. While the color looks borderline gothic in the tube, it goes on as a natural tint to your lips for a subtle, just-bitten look that is versatile and flattering. From daytime to nights out, this color is a staple to throw in
