Fashion
5 Drugstore Lipsticks For Perfect Summertime Brights
As summer fast approaches, it's time to start shelving those boring nudes, autumnal berries, and spring pastels to make way for brights! It doesn't matter what kind — coral, hot pink, fuchsia, orange (I've spent the last few weeks stocking up on all four, like a squirrel hoarding nuts for winter) — just as long as it packs a summer punch.
While unique brights were once relegated to brands like MAC (can you say "Candy Yum Yum?") and NARS, these days, you can find editorial-worthy brights from the comfort of your local beauty aisle. Sure, you can still indulge in the occasional splurge for the hottest new shade right off the runways, but chances are you'll be able to find yourself a dupe for a fraction of the price. And even if you do happen to sacrifice a little in terms of quality (I tried a Chanel lipstick for the first time the other day, and I might just be a convert), it's a great way to get your feet wet. You don't want to pay $20+ for a product that might get worn once before getting forever lost at the bottom of your makeup bag (which is sadly something that sometimes happens when experimenting with neons), and trying out a shade on the cheap is a great way to avoid that. Even these cheap-o versions have great formulas, some are long-lasting, some are glossy and moisturizing, and all are highly pigmented delights. Here are some of my top picks!
Maybelline Color Sensational Vivids in "Vivid Rose"
This whole line is kind of bananas (I’m on a mission to own allllll of them), and it was hard to choose a favorite. But if you’re looking for the quintessential hot pink, I think you’ve found it here. This one’s great for skin with cool undertones, but if you want to go warmer, “Shocking Coral” is also a lot of fun.
Maybelline Color Sensational Vivids in Vivid Rose, $7.49, Maybelline.com
Revlon Colorburst Matte Balm in "Showy"
“Showy” may look rather lackluster in the tube, but in application it’s a glorious mixture of ultra modern and Mad Men-esque retro trendy: this violet lip crayon definitely lives up to its name with its high impact look. And if you like this one, check out Revlon’s two other crayon finishes — their satin and lacquer products are gorgeous, too.
Revlon Colorburst Matte Balm in Showy, $6.49, Target
Milani Color Statement Lipstick in "Flamingo Pose"
“Flamingo Pose” packs a real punch, and the warm-toned coral pink is a great alternative to ladies who are wary of blue-based reds and fuchsias. It’s a unique color that you’d be hard pressed to find, even from top name brands!
Milani Color Statement Lipstick in Flamingo Pose, $4.97, Walmart
Rimmel London Show Off Lip Lacquer in "Big Bang"
Rimmel’s Lip Lacquers have a crazy combination of color and shine — it’s as glossy as can be, yet opaque as your creamiest lipstick. In fact, in terms of pigmentation and finish, I think they’re comparable to Shiseido’s Lacquer Rouges, at a fraction of the price. “Show Off” is particularly fabulous as a retro-yet-editorial orange-y red (though the hot pink “Apocalyptic” is a close second).
Rimmel London Show Off Lip Lacquer in Big Bang, $5.89, Ulta
SEPHORA COLLECTION Rouge Cream Lipstick in "We Have to Talk"
Okay, so Sephora’s not technically a drugstore product, but at this wallet-friendly price point, it’s pretty close. “We Have to Talk” might just be the color of the summer, as it’s slightly reminiscent of cherry popsicles, but with a pop of neon. A lovely mix of red, orange, and pink, this is a great option, especially for those who want to update their red lips for summer.
SEPHORA COLLECTION Rouge Cream Lipstick in We Have to Talk, $12.50, Sephora
