How to Wear Brown Lipstick -

Brown lipstick has made a powerful comeback in the beauty world, and it’s easy to see why. This versatile shade exudes confidence, sophistication, and retro charm. Whether aiming for a bold statement or a subtle, everyday look, brown lipstick can adapt to your style as long as you know how to wear brown lipstick.

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Choosing the Right Shade of Brown

Not all brown lipsticks are created equal. The key to learning how to wear brown lipstick lies in finding a shade that complements your skin tone and style.

Identify Your Undertone

Your skin’s undertone plays a significant role in determining which shade of brown will suit you best.

Cool Undertones: Look for brown lipsticks with taupe, plum, or gray hints.
Warm Undertones: Opt for rich, chocolatey browns with red or orange undertones.
Neutral Undertones: Most brown shades will work for you, so feel free to experiment.

Consider Your Skin Tone

Different shades of brown can either enhance or clash with your natural complexion.

Fair Skin: Light browns, beige tones, and soft caramel shades work beautifully.
Medium Skin: Try warm, mid-tone browns or mocha shades for a flattering effect.
Deep Skin: Rich, dark chocolate and espresso hues create a striking contrast.

Our Picks

Smashbox Always On Longwear Liquid Lipstick

Lancôme Lip Idôle Squalane

Prepping Your Lips

For brown lipstick to look its best, your lips must be smooth and hydrated. This color tends to highlight imperfections, so preparation is crucial.

Exfoliate

Gently exfoliate your lips with a lip scrub or a soft toothbrush to remove any dry or flaky skin.

Hydrate

Apply a nourishing lip balm to keep your lips soft and moisturized. Allow it to absorb before applying lipstick to prevent a slippery texture.

Prime Your Lips

For a smooth, long-lasting application, use a lip primer or a thin layer of concealer to neutralize your natural lip color. This step also helps the brown shade stand out more vividly.

Applying Brown Lipstick

The application technique can make all the difference when wearing a bold shade like brown. Learning how to wear brown lipstick often involves using the right application technique.

Outline with a Lip Liner

A lip liner in a similar or slightly darker shade of brown is essential for defining your lips and preventing the color from feathering. Start by outlining your lips, then fill them in lightly with the liner to create a base for your lipstick.

Apply Your Lipstick

Apply the brown color evenly across your lips using a lip brush or the lipstick bullet. Start at the center and work outward for precise application.

Blot and Layer

For a more intense look, blot your lips with a tissue and add a second layer of lipstick. This step also helps lipstick last longer.

Clean Up the Edges

Use a small brush and a bit of concealer to clean up the edges of your lips for a polished finish.

Pairing Brown Lipstick with the Right Makeup

Brown lipstick can be the focal point of your makeup look, but balancing the rest of your face is essential to create a harmonious appearance.

Keep It Minimal for Daytime

Let your brown lipstick shine for a daytime look by keeping the rest of your makeup subtle.

Use a lightweight foundation or tinted moisturizer for a natural base.
Add a touch of neutral blush to your cheeks for a hint of color.
Stick to soft, neutral eyeshadows, or simply curl your lashes and apply mascara.

Amp It Up for Evening

Brown lipstick pairs beautifully with bold eye makeup for a glamorous evening look.

Create a smoky eye using bronze, gold, or deep brown shades.
Add eyeliner and volumizing mascara for extra drama.
Use highlighter strategically to enhance your cheekbones and other high face points.

Balance Your Blush

The blush you choose can either complement or clash with your brown lipstick. Stick to warm peach, bronze, or muted pink tones that blend seamlessly with the earthy hue of your lips.

Styling Brown Lipstick for Different Occasions

Brown lipstick is versatile and can be styled to suit various settings, from casual outings to formal events.

Casual Days

For a laid-back look, pair a soft brown lipstick with minimal makeup. A swipe of mascara, groomed brows, and a touch of bronzer are all you need.

Work or Professional Settings

Choose a medium-toned brown with a satin or matte finish for a polished and professional vibe. Keep your eye makeup understated and focus on flawless skin.

Evening Glam

Rich, dark brown shades in glossy or matte finishes are perfect for nighttime events. Pair them with a bold cat eye or metallic eyeshadow for a show-stopping look.

Tips for Making Brown Lipstick Work

Experiment with Textures: Brown lipstick comes in various finishes, including matte, satin, and gloss. Try different textures to find the one that best suits your style.
Mix and Match: Blend your brown lipstick with other shades to create a custom color that flatters your complexion.
Test the Shade: Always test a brown lipstick under natural light before purchasing to ensure it complements your skin tone.
Confidence is Key: Brown lipstick makes a bold statement, so wear it confidently to pull off the look effortlessly.