By Rebecca Fearn.
Liquid lipsticks have been a hit ever since they rose to prominence in the beauty industry several years ago. With their long-lasting formulas, range of finishes and never-ending selection of statement shades, they’re a great, modern way to wear lipstick. Yes, we all love a classic lipstick, but a liquid formula often provides day-to-night wear which never fades. They’re usually incredibly highly pigmented too, making them perfect for making a statement whatever the occasion. Liquid lipsticks look lovely in the office in subtle, nudey-pink hues, while vibrant reds and oranges will brighten up a LBD at a party.
There are so many options nowadays when it comes to liquid lipsticks. From new high-shine vinyl formulas from Buxom and demi-matte options from Huda Beauty to old classics from brands such as Stila and Kat Von D, we’re all about these wearable, luxurious liquid lipsticks.
Our top tips for wearing liquid lipstick? First, prep the lips by blotting any excess or oil, then apply a sheer balm to ensure a nourished base. Next, use a lip liner in the closest shade to your chosen liquid lipstick, and delicately line the lips before filling in all over. Now you are ready to apply your chosen colour. Start with the bottom lip and ensure all edges are reached, before working on your upper lip. Check in the mirror to make sure there are no smudges or colour outside the lip-lined edges, and finish by sucking your thumb in a quick ‘popping’ motion to stop any colour going on teeth. This is especially important if you’ve picked a bright, bold shade.
Browse our edit of the very best liquid lipsticks below and then check out our favourite matte and sheer classic lipstick formulas. Not sure which shade is best for you? Read our guide on how to find the right lipstick colour for your skin tone.
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E.l.f Sheer Matte Liquid Lipstick, £6, Available in September
We all love a higher-end buy, but these E.l.f formulas are just as impressive for a fraction of the price. If you prefer a sheer, natural finish rather than highly-pigmented deep colour, these are for you.
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Giorgio Armani Lip Magnet Liquid Lipstick, £30 John Lewis
Highly pigmented with a huge range of shades, these handbag-friendly Lip Magnets are ultra-longlasting and feel luxurious (never dry) on lips. Opt for the shade 'Fire' for a universally flattering hot red.
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Beauty Pie Fantasticolour Liquid Lipstick, £20 (or £5.44 for members)
Velvety and creamy, this formula is infused with nourishing coconut oil for a wearable, comfortable matte finish. We love the shade Blushy, a gorgeous soft pink.
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Too Faced Melted Matte Lip Gloss, £19, Selfridges
Perfect for an ultra-matte finish, Too Faced's formula provides fullness and beautiful colour. It's packed full of avocado oil and vitamin E, so lips stay moisturised. Opt for the shade Granny Panties for a brave grey-purple pout.
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Hourglass Opaque Rouge Liquid Lipstick, £25
Famed for this stunning orange-hued red named Riviera, we're big fans of Hourglass' take on the liquid lipstick. The range of bright, bold hues will brighten up even the dullest of days (or outfits).
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Lime Crime Matte Velvetines, £18
Offering a super-matte 'suede' finish, Lime Crime's liquid lipsticks come in 28 beguiling shades including a neon hot pink (Utopia) and a jet black (Black Velvet).
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Huda Beauty Demi Matte Cream Lipstick, £18
We're big fans of Huda's original liquid mattes, and these brand new demi-mattes are quickly becoming firm favourites. If you suffer from dry lips or fear an overly-matte finish, these are great. Pick up the shade Passionista for berry pink perfection.
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Kat Von D Everlasting Liquid Lipstick, £17
Kat Von D is known for her incredible array of rainbow shades, from greens to blues and lilacs. While we love the range, our favourites are the classically pink-nude Lolita and the summer-bright A-Go-Go.
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Stila Stay All Day Liquid Lipstick, £16 Fabled
Stila has become our go-to brand for their muted wearable reds and nude liquid lipsticks. With 6+ nude options, there's a shade for everyone. Pair your new pout with a super-sexy smoky eye.
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Buxom Va-Va-Plump, £15, Available 30th August
There's a great range of liquid lipsticks with matte finishes, but we also love a hi-shine option such as Buxom's latest release. Available in 20 shades, this formula leaves lips feeling plumped and shiny - but never sticky.
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Charlotte Tilbury Hollywood Lips, £24, Cult Beauty
Designed to contour the lips as well as add colour and definition, these are the ultimate multitasker. Containing firming actives and hydrating hyaluronic acid, lips are kept moisturised and looking plump. This Dangerous Liason shade is an ultra-flattering rusty warm rose.
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NARS Full Vinyl Lip Lacquer, £23, Fabled
Super shiny in finish, NARS' newest liquid lipstick is like a highly pigmented gloss that looks amazing on a night out or for a special occasion. Choose the shade Red District if you want heads to turn.
