Finding the perfect lipstick shade can feel like hunting for a hidden gem. With so many undertones, finishes, and brands to choose from, it’s easy to get overwhelmed. But here’s the truth — some lipstick shades are truly universal. Whether you have fair, wheatish, medium, olive, or deep skin, these colors can bring out the best version of you.

In this guide, we’ll explore the Top 7 Lipstick Shades That Suit All Skin Tones, along with tips on how to wear them, celebrity inspiration, and must-try products in each shade category. Let’s dive in and find your next signature lip color!

1. Classic Red — The Eternal Statement Shade

Why It Works:

A bold red lipstick is every woman’s secret weapon. It instantly elevates any look — from a simple T-shirt and jeans to an elegant evening gown. The beauty of red lies in its balance: it complements all undertones, whether warm, cool, or neutral.

Best Undertones:

Blue-based reds: Ideal for cool undertones (also make teeth look whiter!)

Orange-based reds: Perfect for warm undertones

True red: The go-to universal shade

Celebrity Inspiration:

Think Taylor Swift, Priyanka Chopra, and Marilyn Monroe — all icons who made red lipstick a timeless beauty staple.

Top Picks:

MAC Ruby Woo – A cult classic matte red

Maybelline SuperStay Matte Ink in Pioneer – Long-lasting and affordable

Fenty Beauty Stunna Lip Paint in Uncensored – The ultimate universal red

Pro Tip:

Keep your eye makeup minimal when wearing red lipstick to let your lips steal the show.

2. Nude — The Effortless Everyday Shade

Why It Works:

A nude lipstick is like the little black dress of makeup — simple, sophisticated, and flattering. The key is choosing the right nude that enhances your natural lip color without washing you out.

Best Undertones:

Fair skin: Soft pink or peachy nude

Medium skin: Warm beige or caramel nude

Deep skin: Mocha or chocolate nude

Celebrity Inspiration:

From Kim Kardashian’s iconic nude lips to Alia Bhatt’s natural glow, nude lipsticks have ruled red carpets and daily routines alike.

Top Picks:

Charlotte Tilbury Pillow Talk – Universal pinky nude

NYX Soft Matte Lip Cream in Abu Dhabi – Lightweight and budget-friendly

Huda Beauty Power Bullet in Graduation Day – Perfect blend of warm and cool tones

Pro Tip:

Pair nude lips with a bold eye look or use them to complement your no-makeup makeup days.

3. Mauve — The Subtle Sophistication

Why It Works:

Mauve sits perfectly between pink and plum, offering a balanced mix of warmth and depth. It’s universally flattering because it mimics the natural lip tone while adding a touch of sophistication.

Best Undertones:

Works beautifully across cool, warm, and neutral undertones. It enhances natural lip color without overpowering.

Celebrity Inspiration:

Zendaya and Deepika Padukone often wear mauve lips for a soft yet glamorous finish.

Top Picks:

Maybelline Creamy Matte in Touch of Spice – An all-time favorite

MAC Mehr – Soft, muted pinkish-mauve that looks great on everyone

Rare Beauty Kind Words Lipstick in Humble – Creamy texture with natural finish

Pro Tip:

Use a mauve lip liner to outline lips before applying the shade for a plumper effect.

4. Berry — The Bold Beauty

Why It Works:

Berry tones bring a pop of color that works year-round. They’re flattering because they combine red, pink, and purple — shades that balance beautifully across different complexions.

Best Undertones:

Fair skin: Raspberry berry

Medium skin: Deep rose

Deep skin: Rich plum or wine

Celebrity Inspiration:

Rihanna and Emma Stone have both flaunted berry lips that turned heads instantly.

Top Picks:

Revlon Super Lustrous Lipstick in Berry Haute – Smooth satin finish

Fenty Beauty Mattemoiselle Plush Matte in Griselda – Bold and luxurious

Sephora Cream Lip Stain in Blackberry Sorbet – Deep and stunning

Pro Tip:

Keep your skin tone balanced with a warm blush when wearing darker berry shades to avoid looking too stark.

5. Coral — The Fresh Pop of Sunshine

Why It Works:

Coral is where pink meets orange — vibrant yet wearable. This cheerful shade instantly brightens up your face and adds warmth, making it perfect for all skin tones and especially for summer days.

Best Undertones:

Fair skin: Soft peach-coral

Medium skin: Warm orange-coral

Deep skin: Rich reddish-coral

Celebrity Inspiration:

Selena Gomez and Sonam Kapoor often rock coral lips for a youthful, radiant vibe.

Top Picks:

Maybelline Color Sensational in Coral Crush

NARS Audacious Lipstick in Catherine

Lakmé 9 to 5 Primer + Matte in Coral Date

Pro Tip:

Pair coral lips with gold highlighter or bronzed skin for a tropical goddess glow.

6. Pink — The Playful Classic

Why It Works:

Pink lipsticks never go out of style. From baby pink to fuchsia, this color category has something for everyone. A universally flattering pink typically sits between rose and magenta — bright enough to lift the face but balanced enough to suit every skin tone.

Best Undertones:

Fair skin: Light rose or pastel pink

Medium skin: Rose pink or bright fuchsia

Deep skin: Hot pink or magenta

Celebrity Inspiration:

Anne Hathaway and Kareena Kapoor love pink lips that exude charm and confidence.

Top Picks:

Revlon Super Lustrous in Cherries in the Snow – A legendary pink

Huda Beauty Liquid Matte in Trophy Wife

Maybelline SuperStay Matte Ink in Romantic

Pro Tip:

If you’re unsure which pink suits you best, go for a rose shade — it’s universally flattering and timeless.

7. Plum — The Power Shade

Why It Works:

Plum shades are deep, dramatic, and empowering. They complement all complexions by adding mystery and depth. Whether matte or glossy, a plum lip instantly elevates your look.

Best Undertones:

Fair skin: Muted plum or soft berry-plum

Medium skin: Classic plum

Deep skin: Deep eggplant or wine plum

Celebrity Inspiration:

Lupita Nyong’o and Aishwarya Rai Bachchan have both showcased stunning plum lips that define elegance.

Top Picks:

MAC Rebel – The ultimate plum with a satin finish

Smashbox Always On in Disorderly – Longwear liquid formula

Nykaa Matte Luxe Lipstick in Dusk Plum

Pro Tip:

Pair plum lips with neutral eyeshadow and light contouring to keep the focus on your lips.

Bonus: Tips to Choose the Right Lipstick for Your Skin Tone

Know your undertone:

Cool undertone: Look for blue or purple-based shades

Warm undertone: Opt for orange, peach, or yellow-based colors

Neutral undertone: You can wear both!

Test in natural light:

Always check lipstick shades under natural lighting to see how they truly appear on your skin.

Match with your outfit:

Nude shades pair well with bold outfits, while red or plum tones complement minimalist styles.

Try different finishes:

Matte: Long-lasting, elegant look

Glossy: Fresh and youthful

Satin: Balanced and comfortable for daily wear

Trending Lipstick Finishes for 2026

Soft-matte finishes are dominating because of their comfort and longevity.

Tinted lip oils are gaining popularity for a hydrated, glassy look.

Velvet and blurred lips (a Korean beauty trend) are making waves across all brands.

Brands like Rare Beauty, Fenty Beauty, Maybelline, and Nykaa are leading the way with formulas that combine skincare and makeup for healthier lips.

How to Make Your Lipstick Last Longer

Exfoliate lips: Use a gentle scrub to remove dead skin.

Apply lip balm: Hydrate before color application.

Use a lip liner: Outline and fill lips to create a base.

Blot and layer: Apply, blot with tissue, and reapply for longer wear.

Set with translucent powder: Gently dab to lock in color.

Conclusion: Find Your Perfect Match

Lipstick is more than makeup — it’s an expression of personality, mood, and confidence. The shades we discussed — Red, Nude, Mauve, Berry, Coral, Pink, and Plum — are universally flattering and timeless. Whether you prefer a bold look or a natural vibe, these shades will always suit your skin tone and style.

So, next time you’re standing in the makeup aisle wondering what to buy, remember: beauty has no shade limit — but these lipsticks are made for everyone!