You know that feeling when summer is technically over, but you’re still clinging to sun-kissed skin and that one pink lip gloss that somehow survived July? Yeah, me too. Fall is sneaking in with cozy sweaters, pumpkin-spiced everything, and suddenly, your summer lip colors just… don’t cut it anymore. That’s where the magic of fall lipstick shades comes in.
But with too many lipstick colors out there, finding the perfect shade can be discouraging. One minute you’re contemplating between berry or brick red, or wondering if you should opt for a nude brown or a bold vamp shade. You want something that feels bold enough to stand out but is not so wild that you regret it halfway through brunch.
I get it—I’ve been that girl swiping ten lipsticks on the back of my hand until it looks like abstract art. That’s why I narrowed it down to 21 fall lipstick shades that just work. No guesswork, no “what was I thinking?” Just a playbook with shades you’ll actually obsess over.
21 Fall Lipstick Shades You’ll Live In
Here are the fall lipstick shades that fit every mood, vibe, and PSL-fueled moment.
1. Brick Red – MAC Chili
Matte Lipstick ~Chili~
The perfect middle ground between bold and wearable. It’s warm, fiery, and instantly makes your face look alive even on gloomy fall days. Pair it with a chunky knit sweater and messy bun, and suddenly, you look like you have your life together.
2. Deep Berry – NARS Audacious in Charlotte
Audacious Charlotte Lipstick 4.2g
That sultry, rich shade that makes you feel like the main character walking into a dimly lit bar. It’s dramatic without being costume-y, and the formula glides on like butter. Every time I wear it, people ask, “What lipstick is that?”
3. Dusty Rose – Fenty Beauty Mattemoiselle Plush Matte
Dusty Rose Mattemoiselle Plush Matte Lipstick
a shade as chic and romantic as it sounds. This stunning hue is the perfect blend of a soft pink with a hint of earthy undertones, creating a sophisticated and universally flattering color. For an effortlessly elegant look, pair this lipstick with a swipe of mascara and a delicate gold necklace.
4. Mocha Brown – Maybelline SuperStay Matte Ink in Mocha Inventor
Color Sensational Ultimatte Matte Lipstick, Non-Drying, Intense Color Pigment, More Mocha, Mid-Tone Mauve, 1 Count
For those days you want something low-key but still elevated. Mocha brown is like a PSL for your lips—comforting, familiar, and always a vibe. Plus, this formula will not budge, no matter how many lattes you sip.
5. Classic Crimson – Dior Rouge Dior 999
Rouge Lipstick Color # 999 MATTE (FULL SIZE) 0.12 OZ / 3.5 G
This is the lipstick that lives rent-free in every makeup artist’s kit. It’s a timeless red that screams “effortlessly chic.” Wear it with a trench coat, and suddenly you’re giving Paris Fashion Week energy on a random Tuesday.
6. Warm Blood Orange – Urban Decay Vice Lipstick in Fuel
You can have short product description here. It can be added as and enable/disable toggle option from which user can have control on it.
A warm, fiery tone that feels bold but still daytime-appropriate. It’s like autumn leaves but for your lips. Perfect for when you’re tired of red but want that same head-turning effect.
7. Nude Nocturne – Pat McGrath Labs MatteTrance Lipstick Hearts Desire Edition
Labs MatteTrance Lipstick Hearts Desire Edition – Nude Nocturne for Women – 0.14 oz Lipstick
This one is not for the faint of heart. It’s moody, dramatic, and makes you feel like you run the night. The pigment is intense, but dab it on lightly and it transforms into the perfect berry stain.
8. Nude Pink – Charlotte Tilbury Pillow Talk Medium
Pillow Talk Lipstick Nude Pink .05oz / 1.5g MINI (Travel Size)
Don’t sleep on nudes in fall. A beige with a hint of warmth balances bold eye looks and makes you look effortlessly put together. It’s the lipstick version of “quiet luxury.”
9. Cool Brick Rose – Lancôme L’Absolu Rouge Drama
Rouge Drama Ink – All Day Wear – Lightweight – Semi-Matte
A deep wine shade that feels rich and luxe, like you just stepped out of a glossy editorial. It’s bold but wearable, especially with minimal eye makeup. Honestly, this one turns even a simple outfit into a full look.
10. Subtle Peach – Glossier Generation G in Leo
Generation G Sheer Matte Lipstick Cake Color
Sheer, buildable, and oh-so-cool-girl. This is for days you want color without the commitment. It gives that “just-bitten lips” vibe that pairs perfectly with oversized coats and messy buns.
11. Mauve Pink – Rare Beauty Lip Soufflé in Courage
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Soft, romantic, and versatile. Mauve pink gives you just enough color to look alive without feeling heavy. Selena knew what she was doing with this formula—it’s airy, flattering, and low-maintenance.
12. Posh Pink Suede– Huda Beauty Power Bullet Anniversary
Power Bullet Matte Lipstick Anniversary
A spicy, earthy shade that gives instant fall vibes. It’s bold but still approachable, and looks amazing on warm undertones. I always feel like a cozy Pinterest board come to life when I wear it.
13. Black Cherry – Revlon Super Lustrous Lipstick in Black Cherry
Super Lustrous Lipstick, Creamy Formula For Soft, Fuller-Looking Lips, Moisturized Feel, 477 Black Cherry, 0.15 oz
A drugstore icon that’s been around forever, and for good reason. It’s vampy, deep, and looks way more expensive than it is. Wear it with slicked-back hair and suddenly you’re exuding mysterious main-character energy.
14. Soft Coral – YSL Rouge Volupté Shine in Coral Incandescent
Rouge Volupte Shine Oil-in-stick Lipstick, Rouge Tuxedo, 0.15 Ounce
Yes, coral in fall. Sometimes you need a pop of brightness against all the muted sweaters and coats. This formula feels balmy and moisturizing, so your lips never feel dry even when it’s cold out.
15. Rosy Mauve– Fenty Beauty Stunna Lip Paint in Uncuff
Stunna Lip Paint Longwear Fluid Lip – Uncuffed – Rosy Mauve
You’re looking for a shade that’s both soft and striking? Rosy Mauve is your answer. This stunning shade offers a beautiful balance of pink and purple, making it a sophisticated choice for any occasion. It’s a perfect “your lips but better” shade with a bit more oomph, and its long-lasting, lightweight formula means you can wear it all day and night.
16. Rust Red – ColourPop Lippie Stix in Love Life
Lippie Stix
Comfy Creamy Lipstic
Affordable, pigmented, and so easy to apply. Rust red is like a fresher take on brick—it has a little warmth, a little spice, and a lot of personality. Honestly, it’s one of those shades you end up wearing way more than you expected.
17. Espresso Brown – Anastasia Beverly Hills Liquid Lipstick in Bitter Sweet
Liquid Lipstick
The ultimate “your lips but better” for fall. It’s neutral, flattering, and works for literally every occasion. I’ve worn this to brunch, date nights, and even work meetings—it always fits.
18. Vampy B – MAC Lipstick in Instigator
Matte Lipstick – Smoked Purple Lipstick Women 0.1 oz
If you’re brave enough to try it, this lipstick can look ridiculously chic. It’s edgy without being juvenile when you pair it with clean skin and minimal makeup. Think high fashion runway meets Halloween chic.
19. Warm Caramel – NYX Soft Matte Lip Cream in Abu Dhabi
PROFESSIONAL MAKEUP Soft Matte Lip Cream, High-Pigmented Cream Lipstick in Abu Dhabi
Comfortable, affordable, and universally flattering. Warm caramel shades are the underrated MVPs of fall—they look polished but never try-hard. This one feels like a cozy latte in lipstick form.
20. Mulberry – Bite Beauty Power Move Lipstick in Mulberry
*Mulberry* Power Move Hydrating Soft Matte Lipstick Brand New
Rich, velvety, and unapologetically bold. Mulberry gives you that berry-kissed look that just screams autumn. It’s the kind of shade that makes you feel instantly pulled together—even in sweatpants.
21. Peachy Nude – KVD Beauty Everlasting Liquid Lipstick in Bow N Arrow
Beauty Everlasting Liquid Lipstick in Bow N Arrow
Not every fall look has to be dark. A peachy nude balances smokier eyes and keeps your makeup feeling fresh. It’s the perfect “everyday but still chic” option for people who aren’t ready to go full-on vampy.
How to Pick The Perfect Fall Lipstick Shade Without Losing Your Mind
1. Try Lipsticks In Natural Light
Always, always try your fall lipstick shades in natural light first. Store lighting—especially those harsh fluorescent bulbs in Sephora—will play you every time. What looks like the perfect sultry nude under those lights can turn into straight-up chalky beige when you step outside. You don’t want to buy a shade that you wouldn’t wear later on.
2. Ignore the Myth
While you’re at it, don’t stress about the “rule” that certain shades make teeth look yellow. Truth is, it’s usually the formula, not you. A satin berry can brighten your smile in seconds, while a chalky matte nude might make you look washed out. Again, testing lipstick shades in natural light solves both problems: you’ll see if the color truly works with your undertone and if it actually brightens your teeth—or not.
3. Start With Undertones
Start with undertones—it’s way easier than people make it sound. If your veins look more greenish, warm tones like brick reds and orangey-browns will make your skin glow. If they lean blue or purple, cool berries and mauves will look chef’s-kiss amazing. If you can’t even tell, then you’re probably neutral, which means you can pull off almost anything. Think of it like a cheat code.
4. Formula Matters Too
Fall can be rough on lips—cold air dries them out, and matte favorites can feel scratchy. Stick to creamy satins, balmy textures, or hydrating mattes for smooth color. You can try NARS Audacious Lipstick or budget-friendly Maybelline Color Sensational Creamy Mattes. If you’re a matte fan, a quick scrub, balm, and Charlotte Tilbury Lip Cheat in Pillow Talk make the color last longer.
5. Match Your Vibe, Not Just Your Skin Tone
Finally, pick shades that match your vibe. If you’re heading to a coffee date, a warm brown feels effortless. Girls’ night out? A vampy deep plum works best. And if you need a bold statement for a weekend brunch, burnt orange or brick red. At the end of the day, fall lipstick shades are all about mood, energy, and how they make you feel—not just what’s “on trend.”
Insider Tips for Wearing Fall Lipstick Shades
- Prep is key: Before you swipe on any fall lipstick shade, exfoliate your lips with a gentle scrub and layer a hydrating balm. This keeps your lips soft, smooth, and prevents matte formulas from feeling dry or patchy. A well-prepped lip makes every fall lipstick shade glide on effortlessly.
- Layer like a pro: Don’t just slap on one coat and call it a day. Dab a bold shade lightly for a subtle stain, or layer a gloss over a matte for dimension and shine. This trick lets you go from a casual day look to a full-on evening vibe without extra fuss.
- Test your colors in real light: Store lighting can be deceiving. A shade that looks perfect under harsh fluorescent lights might appear totally different outdoors. Check your fall lipstick shades in natural light to make sure they actually complement your skin tone and undertone.
- Confidence is your best accessory: The shade won’t look “off” if you own it. Even the boldest berry or vampiest brick can pop beautifully if you wear it with attitude. Your energy is what really makes any fall lipstick shade look next-level.
Final Thoughts
Fall is short, but it always feels like the most stylish season. The sweaters, the coffee runs, the golden-hour walks—it’s the perfect backdrop for a lipstick moment. And the best part? It doesn’t take a full makeup routine. Just one swipe can change your whole vibe.
So here’s my challenge: pick at least one of these fall lipstick shades that you wouldn’t normally grab. Throw it in your bag, wear it on a random Tuesday, and watch how it shifts your energy.
