Everything You Need To Know About Orange Lipstick & How To Choose Your Shade

Orange Lipstick: the phrase itself evokes an air of boldness and vivacity. But just like a splash of citrus can brighten up a dish, orange lipstick can instantly elevate your make-up game. Whether you’re looking to make a statement or subtly embrace some warmth, orange lipstick offers a versatile palette of shades and styles that cater to every taste and skin tone. In this article, we take advice from celebrity make-up artist Lan Nguyen-Grealis and dive into the world of orange lipsticks, exploring their flattering potential, a spectrum of hues, and how to master the art of wearing orange with confidence.

Is orange lipstick flattering? 

The right shade of orange can light up your complexion and bring out your inner radiance. But the real beauty of orange lipstick lies in the fact that it suits all skin tones, situations, and sensibilities. And with so many varieties, you don’t have to pick just one. Let’s break down the different styles, looks, and moods that orange lipstick can evoke. 

Vibrant brights

For those who revel in the spotlight, vivid and bright orange shades are the perfect way to make a bold statement. These hues exude energy and confidence, drawing attention to your lips and giving your overall look a high-fashion edge. 

Luminous lights

If you’re a bit apprehensive about diving headfirst into the world of orange, fear not. Lighter shades of orange, such as delicate corals and peachy tones, offer a more subdued and wearable option especially for those with fair skin. These shades add a touch of warmth without overpowering your look, making them ideal for everyday wear. 

Dramatic darks

For a sultry and mysterious vibe, delve into the realm of deep, dark oranges. These carry a sense of intensity that’s ideal for evening looks. 

Burnt beauties

Imagine the rustic hues of autumn leaves – that’s the essence of burnt orange lipstick. This hue offers an earthy yet captivating charm that can be worn effortlessly all year round. 

Coral infusions

Coral shades strike a beautiful balance between orange and pink, creating a harmonious blend that flatters a range of skin tones. From fair to deep, coral hues offer a universally appealing option that’s both trendy and timeless. 

Radiant reds

For a touch of drama that’s the epitome of chic, embrace the fusion of orange and red for a captivating and confident look. 

Peachy keen

A soft and charming alternative, peachy tones bring a touch of innocence to your pout. Great for achieving a youthful and fresh appearance, peach lipstick is low-key yet impactful. 

The best orange lipstick shades

Now that we’ve explored the spectrum of orange lipstick shades, let’s dive deeper into each category to find your perfect match:

Light orange lipstick

Opt for a delicate hue like Clarins Lip Comfort Oil in Apricot for a subtle touch of warmth that complements any make-up look.

Dark orange lipstick

Clarins Lip Perfector Glow in Pomegranate Glow offers a rich and alluring dark orange shade that’s perfect for when you want to make a statement. This all-in-one lip and cheek balm, with plumping peptides, provides a plumping effect and brings a light, non-sticky texture that smooths, comforts, and hydrates lips for 8 full hours.

Coral orange lipstick

Clarins Joli Rouge Lipstick in Papaya strikes the perfect balance between orange and pink, giving you a soft hit of orange.

How to wear orange lipstick

According to Nguyen-Grealis: “Choosing the right shade can be tricky, so it’s best to start off with a subtle tone and build up. Ensure lips are exfoliated and moisturised before application, and outline lips with a liner that matches the shade. Once you have applied your lipstick, blot off any excess product with tissue and reapply until you have reached the right density – this helps it to stay on longer. As orange is a bold colour, keep the rest of your make-up fresh and muted.”

Fair skin

If you have fair skin, consider opting for lighter shades of orange, like peaches and corals. These shades will add a touch of warmth without overwhelming your complexion. 

Medium skin

Medium skin tones have the luxury of versatility. You can experiment with a wide range of orange shades, from bright and bold, to soft and sheer. 

Dark skin

Black and brown skin tones can carry off the boldest of orange shades with panache. Don’t shy away from vibrant oranges or burnt hues. 

Is orange lipstick warm or cool?

Orange lipstick comes in both warm and cool undertones. So, keep this in mind when making your final decision. Warmer oranges have undertones of red or coral, while cooler oranges lean towards undertones of pink or even brown. Consider your overall skin undertone when choosing between the two. If you have warm undertones, opt for warmer oranges – and for cooler undertones, cooler shades will complement your complexion beautifully.

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