While summer 2021 might be remembered in the beauty world as the season that colourful eye shadow reigned supreme, it’s the resurgence of lipstick that I’m more interested in. Yes, despite the reality of face masks, meaning many of us were spending more time concentrating on the makeup that goes on the upper half of our faces, once unmasked, I’ve noticed that lipstick is still very much a staple of every fashion person’s beauty routine. And this summer’s hottest lipstick colours are a delight to behold—from the revival of classic crimson to new-gen glosses, there’s a lipstick love-in happening right now. And I’m very much on board with it.
Ahead, keep scrolling for the four summer lipstick colours that everyone will be wearing and to shop my favourite formulations.
Traditionally a spring hue, pastel pink seems to be emerging later this year—perhaps, in part, a reflection of us emerging from lockdown as summer arrives. Veering from soft, powdery roses to poppier blush shades, summer’s pink lipsticks are hazy rather than bubblegum, and they work best in slippy, satin textures.
A hint of rose looks so pretty on the lips.
This glossy peony looks so cool contrasted with turquoise lids.
I think we’re all in agreement that this pastel pink is the perfect everyday lipstick shade.
A muted blush is a modern way to wear this trend.
One of the biggest makeup trends of 2021 has been the matte red lip—not that this timeless look has ever really gone anywhere, but it’s really having a moment right now. Summer’s take is a celebration of red in its brightest forms, from ripe strawberry to classic pillar-box shades. And while matte formulations traditionally have felt like too dry an option for summer, the newest lipsticks on the market are comfortable enough to wear all day long.
This vibrant, poppy red is as summery as they come.
I love the way this classic, matte red lip looks with a playful summer outfit.
Opt for reds with just a hint of orange to add warmth to this lip look.
A bold lip like this one looks so chic with pared-back makeup and glowy skin.
Strictly speaking, this isn’t a colour, but I can’t talk about summer lipstick trends without mentioning glosses in all their glory. Forget the glittery, holographic ’90s take on the gloss; this summer, it’s all about new-generation formulas with high-shine finishes and none of the stickiness. Peach, watermelon and cherry hues are the order of the day for a juicy wash of colour that glows on the lips.
A total tangerine dream.
Vibrant coral and watermelon pink look so good in this shiny finish.
If brights aren’t your thing, then try a rich plum or berry shade in a glossy formulation.
I didn’t know I needed a purple lipgloss until now.
Mauve is often written off as a shade of a bygone era, but look at any lipstick launch right now, and you’ll see a plethora of modern mauves in the mix. If brights are your bag, then opt for lilac hues, while muted neutrals with just a tinge of purple look delightfully chic. It’s unexpected, but mauve is one of my favourite summer lipstick colours right now.
Fuchsia undertones keep this mauve lipstick feeling fresh and modern.
Layer soft lilacs with a gloss to get them summer-ready.
Neutrals with a berry undertone are a subtle way to wear the mauve trend.
A matte mauve is an elegant finishing touch to a bold outfit.
Up next: These seven hair colours will be everywhere this summer, according to experts.
