A real summer beauty refresh starts with stylish new lipstick shades. This year, I took a hard look at my makeup bag and realized it was overflowing with lipsticks that had simply gone stale. Some were dried out, others were empty, and a few were just… not it anymore. I held onto a few staples I knew I’d repurchase, but the rest? Tossed.

I’d previously tried doing a new lipstick haul—but let’s just say, I wasn’t thrilled. One of the lipsticks (from a brand I won’t name) literally broke off the first time I applied it. Tragic.

So here I am again, searching for the shades that fit every part of my life: work, play, and those daring, eccentric moments when I want to make a statement. I thought it would be easy—but the options were overwhelming. Some brands offer over 50 shades (and don’t get me started on the price range—from $2 drugstore finds to $30+ luxury bullets).

The only thing I was sure about? I’m a crème lipstick girl. Glosses are cute, but a rich, creamy lipstick? That’s where the magic happens.

I went on a little beauty mission and found shades that truly express my vibe and style.

Here’s what made the cut—and yes, you can actually buy these:

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💼 Mid Pink / Nude — Polished for Work

A “your lips but better” shade that whispers I’m put together without trying too hard.

Try:

• Charlotte Tilbury Pillow Talk – a cult-favorite pinky nude that flatters almost every skin tone.

• Maybelline SuperStay Ink Crayon in Lead the Way – a comfortable drugstore nude-pink that lasts all day.

💋 Hot Pink — Bold, Bombshell Energy

Fun, flirty, and a little spicy—hot pink gives instant confidence.

Try:

• MAC Girl About Town – an iconic bright fuchsia that turns heads.

• Fenty Beauty Mattemoiselle in Candy Venom – bold color with a smooth matte finish.

🎀 Soft Pink — Sweet but Glam

The soft Barbie-pink moment that always works with lashes and highlighter.

Try:

• Revlon Super Lustrous Lipstick in Primrose – a creamy, classic soft pink.

• Rare Beauty Kind Words Matte Lipstick in Worthy – a muted pink that’s feminine and modern.

💜 Plum / Purple — Edgy with a Touch of Drama

Perfect with a smoky eye, oversized sunglasses, or an all-black outfit.

Try:

• Urban Decay Vice Lipstick in Backtalk – a mauve-pink-plum hybrid that’s surprisingly wearable.

• Milani Color Statement in Sangria – a rich plum with major pigment.

🔥 Red — Timeless & Powerful

Deep or sheer, red makes you feel instantly put together.

Try:

• NARS Audacious in Rita – a statement-making classic red.

• L’Oréal Colour Riche Shine in Enamel Red – a glossy red with summer sparkle.

🍑 Bonus Shade: Red-Peach Fusion — Unexpected & Fabulous

I didn’t think it would work on me, but it’s a total summer slay.

Try:

• YSL Rouge Volupté Shine in Coral Incandescent – a luxurious peachy red that brightens your whole face.

• NYX Soft Matte Lip Cream in Morocco – an affordable warm red-orange with a velvety finish.

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These are my top picks for lipstick shades this summer. I’m curious—what’s in your makeup bag?

Let me know what shades you’re loving (or tossing) this season! 💄✨