10 Lipsticks You’ll Want in Your Makeup Bag for 2026
- BY LESEDI SELOANE
- 1 day ago
- 6 min read
Nothing ties a makeup look together like a bold lip. Lipstick has always been more than just makeup, it’s a mood, a statement. As makeup trends evolve, the modern woman’s lipstick collection is all about curating the perfect wardrobe of colours that balance timeless classics with trend-forward essentials. From lipstick colours such as power reds that command attention to glossy nudes that embrace the skinimalism movement, these ten lipsticks are the ultimate staples every woman should own.
1. A classic red
The classic red lip will never go out of style. For any occasion, a bold red lip remains the crown jewel of any collection. The bold yet elegant red is perfect for power looks or when you need instant confidence. The perfect red lipstick shade transcends time, trends and generations. Red lips have the power to instantly elevate even the simplest outfit, transforming simple jeans and a white shirt into a statement look or adding sophistication to an evening gown.
The modern red comes in versatile finishes, from velvety mattes for a power-driven edge to satin and glossy textures that soften the intensity while keeping the drama alive. Red lips have the power to instantly elevate even the simplest outfit, transforming a simple jeans and a white shirt into a statement look or adding sophistication to an evening gown. It’s the one shade that speaks confidence, femininity and timelessness allure all at once.
Yardley Stayfast Liquid Matte Vinyl Lip Gloss
2. Rosy pink
The rosy pink lipstick is the epitome of effortless charm and adds a universally flattering element to the look. It’s the shade that instantly brightens the face, adding a natural flush of colour that feels fresh, feminine and approachable. Perfect for daytime wear, brunch dates or summer outings, the perfect rosy pink strikes the balance between playfulness while still being polished. This shade leans toward a creamy and lip balm-like texture which gives lips a hydrated, just-kissed look that aligns with the year’s trend of natural, glowing beauty. It’s the go-to choice when you want subtle sophistication without trying too hard.
Essence 8H Matte Liquid Lipstick
3. Peachy coral
The peachy coral lipstick is the sunshine shade every woman needs in her collection. Vibrant yet subtle, it brings warmth and energy to any look, making it the ultimate summer staple. Peachy coral flatters a wide range of skin tones. It adds a lively pop of colour that feels both chic and fun.
For 2026, peachy coral is being reimagined with lightweight, luminous formulas that enhance its playful nature. A creamy sheen and soft glosses that catch the light beautifully. Whether paired with bronzed skin for a beachy vibe or a minimalist outfit that needs a touch of brightness, peachy coral is the colour of joy and confidence.
Yardley Stayfast Lipstick shade Salmon
4. Metallic Plum or Wine
The metallic plum lipstick is for the bold and adventurous looks. Offering a modern twist on deep, sultry shades. With its rich undertones and shimmering finish, this colour brings drama and sophistication while adding a futuristic edge. A perfect fit for evening wear or moments when you want to command attention, the wine shades feel both daring, luxurious and embraces high-shine formulas and multidimensional pigments that reflect light beautifully, making lips the focal point of any look. It’s not just lipstick, it’s a statement of confidence and unapologetic glamour.
MAC Matte Lipstick shade Smoked Purple
5. Deep berry
The deep berry lipstick is the ultimate power shade for women who love a touch of drama without leaning onto the known classic red. A rich and endlessly chic shade brings depth and intensity that’s perfect for late nights on the town or when you want to leave a lasting impression. The deep berry tones are being celebrated in velvety matte and satin finishes that allow the colour to shine while still feeling modern. Whether paired with a smoky eye for full-on glamour or worn alone as the centerpiece of a minimal makeup look, this shade exudes mystery and elegance.
MAC M·A·Cximal Silky Matte Lipstick shade Diva
6. Bold unconventional pop
A bold unconventional pop lipstick is the wildcard of every collection. Shades that dares you to step outside your comfort zone. From striking blues and purples to neon corals and edgy greens, these colors are less about blending in and more about standing out and taking center stage. As beauty evolves into fearless individuality, bold lip shades have become a symbol of creative freedom and self-expression. Whether worn at a festival, on a night out, or simply to shake up an everyday look, these statement colours turn lips into the ultimate canvas for personality showcases. It’s makeup that speaks louder than words.
Maybelline SuperStay Vinyl Ink Lip Colour
7. Mauve-toned neutral
The mauve-toned neutral lipstick is the quiet achiever of any collection. It is understated yet endlessly versatile. The tones are placed beautifully between pinks and browns. Mauve offers just enough depth to look polished while still feeling natural. It’s the perfect shade for everyday wear, seamlessly transitioning from the office to dinner without needing a touch-up.
Mauve neutrals are taking center stage in creamy and soft-matte finishes, reflecting the beauty trend of elevated minimalism. A more no-makeup make look. This shade flatters a wide range of skin tones, adding subtle definition to the lips without overpowering the rest of your makeup. Think of this shade as the kind of lipstick that makes you look effortlessly put together, no matter the occasion.
Rimmel Lasting Finish Matte Lipstick shade Mauve Bliss
8. Glossy brown nude
The glossy brown nude lipstick is the modern day essential that brings a touch of sophistication with an effortless edge. Richer than a classic nude yet softer than the other deeper browns, this shade strikes the perfect balance between chic and wearable. The glossy finishes are making a huge comeback, giving brown nudes a luscious, plump effect that feels youthful.
This lipstick works beautifully for both casual and polished looks. A perfect makeup look pairing would be with a bronzed skin for a warm, with a sleek eyeliner for an understated, modern glam. It is universally flattering and incredibly versatile, the glossy brown nude is the kind of shade that adapts to any occasion such as the Mauve-toned lipstick, while keeping your lips looking full, hydrated, and irresistibly polished.
NYX Professional Butter Gloss shade Brown
9. Soft nude beige
The soft nude beige lipstick is the ultimate everyday classic. The kind of shade that belongs in every woman’s makeup bag. Light, subtle and effortlessly, it enhances your natural lip colour while adding just the right touch of polish to a look. Perfect for minimal makeup days, office looks, or when you want other features of the makeup to stand out, like your eye makeup to take.
A soft nude beige is the definition of understated elegance and in 2025, the shade is being reimagined with hydrating formulas and satin finishes that keep lips looking fresh rather than flat. Whether paired with a sleek ponytail for a modern edge or soft waves for a romantic feel, nude beige is the go-to for achieving that timeless “your lips but better” effect.
Rimmel The Only One Lipstick shade The Only 1 720 I Dare You
10. Sheer lipstick and balm
The sheer lipstick or tinted balm is the effortless beauty hero of 2025. It is suited for those who love a hint of colour with maximum comfort. Being lightweight, hydrating and easy to apply and reapply without a mirror, these formulas deliver a natural wash of pigment that enhances rather than masks your lips. They’re ideal for everyday wear, giving that dewy finish that feels fresh and natural.
With skincare and makeup increasingly merging, tinted balms often come infused with nourishing ingredients like hyaluronic acid, vitamin E or natural oils, thus keeping your lips soft and healthy while still looking chic. Whether you’re running errands, heading to brunch or embracing the clean-girl aesthetic, a sheer lipstick is the effortless touch that ties it all together.
Revlon Super Lustrous Glass Shine shade Spark Quartz
Having a truly versatile lipstick collection as a lady is about striking the perfect balance between having timeless classics shades and bold tones. Balancing out the collection with trend-forward shades that are confidence-boosting and have the power of a classic red to the playful charm of rosy pinks and peachy corals. This takes your collection and the option of lip combos to a different level in beauty.
Lipsticks that speak to the fearless self-expression of bold pops to shades that serve a purpose. Everyday essentials like the glossy browns and sheer tints ensure that effortless, polished looks are always within reach. By curating a collection that blends sophistication, versatility and creativity, every woman can have a lipstick wardrobe ready to express her personality, elevate her style and adapt to any occasion. This makes 2026 the year of confident and intentional beauty with lip combos.
