Let’s Get Naked: Four Nude Lipsticks You Need to Try Right Now
By Zoe Hawryluk
When you hear the words “bold lipstick,” you probably think of bright reds, pinks, corals, and oranges. But there’s a new, unexpected hue in town here to make women look powerful and feel beautiful, too.
Nude is the new red. According to a recent Bustle.com article, SkinStore conducted a survey of some 2,000 women. Their studies showed that the majority of women choose nude lipstick because it makes them feel more attractive and more empowered.
Sometimes choosing the perfect nude lipstick for your skin tone can be terrifying. But I tried four incredible lipsticks in a variety of finishes to help you find what works best for you.
1. Urban Decay Vice Lipstick ($17)
Finish: Creamy and hydrating
Hue: “Weirdo” – a pinky peach nude
Wear Time: A few hours
Pair With: A neutral shimmery eye
When Will I Ever Wear This? Every day!
Final Thoughts:
This lipstick amazed me from start to finish. The creamy formula was amazing to the touch, super comfortable, and went on opaque with 1-2 swipes. This lipstick is ultra-hydrating, so it’s perfect for you gals with kissers on the dryer side. I got tons of compliments on the color, and the lipstick comes in over 130 other shades and finishes. So it’s impossible to not find your perfect color. I had to reapply the lipstick a few times throughout the day, especially after eating lunch and dinner (which is normal for any lipstick that’s not matte or liquid matte). The formula is also vegan and cruelty free, which is always a nice bonus. I’m definitely keeping this one in my purse.
2. Huda Beauty Liquid Matte Lipstick ($20)
Finish: Matte and dry
Hue: “Crush” – a peachy, earthy nude
Wear Time: All day
Pair With: A neutral shimmery eye, a toned-down earthy eye, or a crazy smoky eye
When Will I Ever Wear This? Every day if you never want to worry about what your lipstick looks like, or for a special all-day or all-night occasion
Final Thoughts:
I absolutely loved this lipstick. I’m a committed lover of matte liquid lipstick, and I know Huda Beauty is a crowd favorite. This lipstick is super matte, but not entirely opaque. You can spread a dab of it around with your fingertip to create a more effortless, everyday look. Or you can carefully apply an extra layer or two with the applicator for a glamorous pout. This shade goes with everything and I find myself reaching for this lipstick a lot. If you’re not a fan of peach, you have 27 other colors to choose from. The formula is drying, but if you’re not a seasoned liquid lipstick wearer, it’s nothing a little lip balm and lip liner can’t fix. (Oh, and make sure you exfoliate before applying.) The formula is filled with antioxidants and it feels like you’re wearing nothing! What more could you ask for?
3. L’Oréal Colour Riche Matte Lipstick ($8.99)
Finish: Demi-matte/Satin
Hue: “#806 Matte-itude” – a Beigey Grey
Wear Time: A few hours
Pair With: A burgundy or smoky eye
When Will I Ever Wear This? When you’re in the mood to drink boy tears and stomp out the patriarchy (aka: all the time)
Final Thoughts:
As soon as I put this lipstick on I felt like I could take over the world. This badass “greige” color is the perfect addition to your fall makeup routine, and surprisingly flattering. I paired this shade with an edgy gold layered choker and a burgundy & shimmery taupe smoky eye. The formula is comfortable, with a hydrating demi-matte finish that doesn’t dry out your lips. This shade is perfect if you’re looking to take risks with your makeup this season, but don’t want to commit to full-on black lipstick. Either way, have no fear! There are 15 more colors to choose from.
4. L’Oréal Infallible Paints/Lips Matte ($9.99)
Finish: Creamy & Hydrating Matte
Hue: “#340 Skinny Dip” – a peach, true nude
Wear Time: All day, touch-ups after food
Pair With: A neutral shimmery eye, a bold colorful look, or a sultry smoky eye
When Will I Ever Wear This? Every day!
Final Thoughts:
I was thoroughly shook at how much I loved this lipstick. At first when I put it on, I didn’t think it would dry down completely. I thought it just a liquefied matte lipstick (like a regular tube of matte lipstick but liquefied). However, I was so pleasantly surprised. This formula dries down to the same consistency of any matte liquid lipstick, but is the most hydrating formula I have ever experienced. I love all of L’Oréal’s Infallible line, and they stayed true to their brand with this formula. It was comfortable and long-wearing, as well as easily buildable. I wore this lipstick with a dewy foundation and green-brown shimmery eyeshadow and felt super-confident. This is a newer product so there are only six shades, but all of them are adorable and universally flattering.
Conclusion: It’s out with the old, and in with the nude! Even though bright, bold colors are fun, sometimes they’re not for everyone. Next time you skip on over to Sephora or the makeup section of the drugstore, make sure you sneak a peek at cheeky nudes.
