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The 8 Best Lipsticks to Brighten Up Your Summer

Is there any beauty product that is more celebratory than lipstick? We think not. A quick swipe of color across your lips can instantly liven up your face and boost your spirits. Whether you prefer a subtle nude or a pop of orange, we’ve gathered our favorite lipsticks in different shades and finishes for you to choose from. (We’re especially into a vibrant fuchsia this season.)

How to Solve Every Lipstick Problem You've Ever Had


1. Kosas Weightless Lipstick In "violet Fury"

A Vibrant Fuchsia

At the top of our list is the shade of the summer: Fuchsia. It’s a pain to spell, but damn if it doesn’t make a statement when you put it on your lips. The pinkish purple hue offers the ultimate pick-me-up, and this formula, from clean beauty darling, Kosas, is especially comfortable on your lips thanks to a trio of mango seed, shea and cocoa seed butters.

2. Hera Sensual Powder Matte In "435 Pampas"

A Warm Nude

If you like to keep things a bit more neutral on the lips, a rosy nude is always in season. We’re currently digging this soft matte formula from Hera, a K-beauty classic that’s newly available stateside (and a go-to for BLACKPINK’s Jennie, who is the brand’s ambassador).

3. Victoria Beckham Beauty Posh Lipstick In "pop"

A Cherry Red

Tip: A slightly cool-toned red does wonders to brighten up sallow skin and yellowed teeth. This silky formula from none other than Posh Spice herself is highly pigmented without being drying and is a true glide-and-go formula that requires no fuss to apply and feels comfortable on your lips for hours.

4. Merit Beauty Shade Slick Tinted Lip Oil In "marrakech"

A Sheer Peach

For a shade that just about anyone can wear at any time and to any occasion, we’d suggest a sheer peach. This newcomer from Merit Beauty delivers a satisfying amount of pigment without any stickiness and just a hint of shine.

5. Rare Beauty Souffle Matte Cream Lip In "motivate"

A Barbie Pink

If your vibe is especially celebratory, try a pop of pink to match your mood. This creamy pick has a nice, whipped texture that feels cloudlike—which is to say impossibly light and airy—going on your lips and dries to a soft, matte finish.

6. Fenty Beauty By Rihanna Slip Shine Sheer Shiny Lipstick

A Juicy Orange

Another eye-catching shade to rock this summer? A lush orange (which will look even better with your incoming tan). We appreciate this slightly sheer take on the fluorescent hue because it’s flattering without being so in your face. (The buttery formula makes it easy to get smooth, even coverage without a mirror.)

7. Hourglass Cosmetics Opaque Rogue Liquid Lipstick

A Petal Pink

A soft pink is a nice transition shade between spring and summer because it still has that brightening effect that’s very much appreciated after a winter spent mostly indoors, but it’s not so jarring for anyone who is dipping their toes back into wearing more color.

8. Make Up For Ever Rouge Artist Lipstick In "300"

A Bright Coral

And when you are ready to rock a statement lip, try a punchy coral, which is one of those shades that looks good on everyone thanks to its balance of cool and warm tones. This one from Make Up For Ever does not play around with pigment (and the tapered applicator makes it easy to stay within the lines).



Jenny Jin Headshot Vertical 2023

Beauty Director

Jenny Jin is PureWow’s Beauty Director and is currently based in Los Angeles. Since beginning her journalism career at Real Simple magazine, she has become a human encyclopedia of...