Let’s be real—finding the one in the world of lipstick can feel like dating. Some look great in photos but flake IRL, while others are reliable ride-or-dies that deserve a permanent spot in your makeup bag. In 2025, brands are doubling down on performance, pigment, and inclusivity. We swatched and tested the most hyped celeb-favorite lipsticks across two different skin tones to bring you the WokePicks-certified winners.
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🥇 1. MAC Paramount
Best Everyday Muted Red
Best For: Daily glam, 90s lovers, all skin tones
Finish: Satin-Matte
Why It’s the Best: MAC still reigns supreme when it comes to shade innovation, and Paramount is the unsung hero in their lineup. This muted brick red walks the line between warm and cool undertones, meaning it looks rich on fair skin and smoldering on deep tones. It’s a 90s throwback that still feels fresh.
What Users Say:
“Instantly makes me feel polished without trying too hard. Works with everything.”
✅ Pros:
- Universally flattering tone
- Smooth, non-drying matte
- Great for day-to-night wear
❌ Cons:
- Not transfer-proof
- Packaging feels a bit dated
Verdict:
🔥🔥 Certified GOATED – The ultimate low-effort, high-impact lipstick.
🥇 2. Fenty Beauty Icon Velvet Liquid Lipstick – The MVP
Best Bold Universal Red
Best For: Night outs, bold lip looks, high-contrast glam
Finish: Soft Matte
Why It Slaps: Rihanna knows red. The MVP is that blue-red that doesn’t lean too warm or cool. Whether you’re pale, olive, or deep-skinned, this lip pops and holds up in low light. Rihanna’s line also wins for nailing undertones across the board.
What Users Say:
“Every time I wear this, someone stops me and asks what shade it is. That’s power.”
✅ Pros:
- Ultra-pigmented
- Long-lasting with minimal feathering
- Flatters every undertone
❌ Cons:
- Slightly drying without balm underneath
- Can be too bold for everyday use
Verdict:
🔥👍 Worthy Add-to-Cart – When you want to feel unstoppable.
🥇 3. Glossier Ultralip High Shine Lipstick with Hyaluronic Acid
Best for Sheer + Buildable Glow
Best For: Natural glam, creators, travel-ready looks
Finish: Sheer Shine
Why It Works: Think Clinique Black Honey, but better. Glossier’s Ember offers that lived-in tint with a touch of sheen. It adapts surprisingly well across skin tones and delivers moisture like a balm with color like a soft lipstick.
What Users Say:
“I keep this in every bag. It’s my go-to for airport selfies and dinner dates.”
✅ Pros:
- Buildable and hydrating
- Slim, portable packaging
- Wears beautifully even when fading
❌ Cons:
- Needs reapplying every few hours
- Not bold enough for statement lips
Verdict:
🔥👍 Worthy Add-to-Cart – Chill luxury in a tube.
📸 Bonus Picks & Mentions
- Pat McGrath Labs Elson 4 – Luxe red with high impact, but may shift pink on some tones.
- Charlotte Tilbury Pillow Talk – Beautiful on fair-medium skin, but lacks universal appeal.
- Make Up For Ever Wherever Walnut – Technically a lip liner, but works magic solo.
- Kiss Look So Natural Strip Lashes – Oh wait, wrong showdown… but they still slay.
🏁 Final Verdict
💄 Top Recommendation: If you’re hunting for that perfect everyday color with just enough edge, MAC Paramount is the one to beat. But if you’re here to serve statement lip energy, Fenty MVP is that girl. Want something sheer, cool, and easy to wear with anything? Glossier Ember is calling.