If you’ve been paying attention to beauty trends lately, you’ll notice that brown lipstick is having a major moment. Once thought of as a relic of the ’90s, this rich, earthy shade has come back into the spotlight with a vengeance, and it’s more versatile than ever. From warm chestnuts to deep chocolate hues, brown lipstick is proving to be the ultimate go-to color for anyone looking to make a bold, yet refined statement.
This retro revival isn’t just about nostalgia. Brown lipstick offers a modern twist on a classic look, perfect for a variety of skin tones and styles. Whether you want to channel your inner supermodel or just add a touch of drama to your everyday makeup, there’s a shade of brown for everyone. Let’s dive into why this trend is back, which brands are leading the charge, and which celebrities are rocking brown lipstick on the red carpet.
Why Brown Lipstick is Back
Brown lipstick first rose to fame in the ‘90s, a decade known for its grunge, minimalism, and supermodel domination. Icons like Naomi Campbell, Cindy Crawford, and Kate Moss helped popularize the look, making it the go-to lip color for anyone who wanted to be effortlessly cool and chic. But like all trends, brown lipstick fell out of favor in the 2000s, replaced by glossier, lighter shades and, of course, the nude lip craze.
Fast forward to today, and brown lipstick has come roaring back, thanks in part to a shift toward retro trends and the growing appreciation for bold, rich shades. What was once reserved for edgy fashion shows and avant-garde photo shoots is now a versatile, wearable option for everyday glam.
One of the key reasons for the resurgence of brown lipstick is its versatility. Unlike other bold colors (think red or purple), brown lipsticks offer a wide range of shades that can suit virtually any skin tone. From light mocha and taupefor fairer skin tones to deep cocoa and espresso for darker complexions, brown lipstick has the unique ability to enhance natural beauty without overpowering it. Plus, it’s universally flattering for both warm and cool undertones.
Brown is also a fantastic neutral alternative to the traditional nude lip. While nude lipsticks can sometimes wash you out or look too subtle, brown provides a more striking, yet still natural, alternative. Whether you’re going for a subtle look with a light brown lip or something more dramatic with a dark chocolate hue, brown lipstick gives you the freedom to play with intensity while keeping things sophisticated.
Best Brown Lipstick Shades and Brands to Try
With brown lipstick back in the game, nearly every major beauty brand has launched or re-launched their own versions of this versatile shade. Here are some of the best shades and brands leading the brown lipstick renaissance:
1. MAC Cosmetics – “Whirl”
MAC has long been a go-to brand for lipsticks, and “Whirl” is a fan favorite in the brown family. This shade is a soft, dusty rose-brown that flatters most skin tones. It’s ideal for those who want to ease into the brown lipstick trend without going too dark. The matte finish adds a modern touch, making it perfect for both daytime and evening looks.
2. Fenty Beauty – “Matemoiselle Plush Matte in Thicc”
Fenty Beauty, Rihanna’s cult-favorite makeup brand, has been at the forefront of inclusivity, and its “Matemoiselle” lipstick line offers a wide variety of shades. “Thicc” is a beautiful warm taupe-brown that looks stunning on deeper skin tones. The formula is matte but comfortable, making it easy to wear all day without drying out your lips.
3. Kylie Cosmetics – “Brown Sugar”
Kylie Jenner’s beauty empire has helped shape many beauty trends, and her “Brown Sugar” shade has been a standout in her lip kit collection. It’s a medium-brown with slight peach undertones, making it a softer take on brown that works well for those with medium to olive skin tones.
4. NARS – “Deborah”
If you’re looking for something darker and more dramatic, NARS’ “Deborah” is the way to go. This rich, chocolate-brown shade is the epitome of glamour. Its satin finish makes it slightly glossy, adding a touch of luxe to any look. It’s perfect for a night out or when you want your lips to be the center of attention.
5. Glossier – “Leo”
For fans of more natural, subtle makeup, Glossier’s “Leo” is a great entry into the world of brown lipstick. This sheer, buildable brown gives your lips a soft wash of color without feeling too heavy. It’s the ultimate “your lips but better” shade, making it ideal for everyday wear.
Celebrities Who Are Rocking Brown Lipstick on the Red Carpet
As with most beauty trends, the resurgence of brown lipstick can be traced back to Hollywood’s most stylish stars. Whether at major award shows, fashion week events, or movie premieres, celebrities are embracing this classic lip color with open arms. Here are just a few stars who have made brown lipstick a red carpet staple:
1. Rihanna
Rihanna is the queen of bold beauty looks, so it’s no surprise that she’s been a major advocate for brown lipstick. Whether she’s promoting her Fenty Beauty line or attending a high-profile event, Rihanna frequently opts for deep, chocolatey shades that complement her radiant skin. Her ability to make brown lipstick look effortlessly glamorous is part of why this trend has become so popular again.
2. Zendaya
Zendaya, known for her daring fashion choices, has also embraced brown lipstick as part of her red carpet looks. At several award shows, she’s been spotted wearing a rich cocoa shade that perfectly balances her minimal makeup style. With her natural hair and glowing skin, brown lipstick adds a touch of retro elegance to her youthful, modern aesthetic.
3. Kendall Jenner
Kendall Jenner, the supermodel who’s been at the forefront of many fashion and beauty trends, has been seen rocking brown lipstick in various shades, from a light taupe to deeper chestnuts. Paired with her minimalist makeup and sleek outfits, the brown lip provides a perfect contrast, making her look effortlessly chic.
4. Kim Kardashian
Kim Kardashian, a beauty mogul in her own right, often uses brown lipstick as part of her signature contoured makeup looks. Her go-to shade is a neutral brown that works well with her bronzed complexion and dramatic lashes. Whether on her Instagram or at red carpet events, Kim’s use of brown lipstick has helped bring the shade back into the spotlight for beauty enthusiasts everywhere.
5. Lupita Nyong’o
Known for her bold fashion and beauty statements, Lupita Nyong’o has made brown lipstick her own. Her deep skin tone looks absolutely stunning with darker chocolate hues, and she often pairs the look with vibrant eye makeup for an extra pop. Lupita’s confidence and bold choices show just how versatile brown lipstick can be across a wide range of skin tones.
How to Wear Brown Lipstick: Tips and Tricks
If you’re intrigued by the brown lipstick trend but not quite sure how to pull it off, don’t worry—it’s easier than you think! Here are some tips and tricks to help you make the most of your brown lip moment:
1. Exfoliate and Moisturize
Brown lipstick, especially in matte formulas, can accentuate dryness or texture on your lips. Make sure to exfoliate with a gentle lip scrub and apply a hydrating lip balm before applying your lipstick. This will ensure a smooth, flawless application and prevent your lips from looking cracked or dry.
2. Line Your Lips
For deeper brown shades, lip liner is your best friend. Use a liner that matches your lipstick shade or is just a touch darker to define your lips and prevent the color from bleeding. Lining your lips can also help you achieve a more precise, polished look.
3. Balance the Rest of Your Makeup
Brown lipstick can be bold, so it’s important to balance the rest of your makeup. If you’re going for a deep chocolate lip, keep your eye makeup neutral with soft browns, bronzes, or a light shimmer. For a lighter brown lip, you can play up your eyes with bolder eyeliner or metallic shadows. The key is to let your lips be the star of the show while keeping the rest of your look cohesive.
4. Try Different Finishes
One of the great things about brown lipstick is its versatility in finishes. For a sophisticated, classic look, opt for a matte brown. If you’re feeling adventurous, try a gloss or satin finish to add some dimension and shine. You can even layer a gloss over a matte lipstick for added drama.
5. Mix and Match
Don’t be afraid to experiment with different shades of brown or even mix them together! You can start with a lighter shade in the center of your lips and add a darker brown around the edges for a subtle ombré effect. Mixing lipsticks is a great way to customize your shade and find the perfect brown for your skin tone.
Brown is the New Black
Brown lipstick is more than just a trend—it’s a timeless, versatile shade that can add warmth, sophistication, and a touch of retro cool to any makeup look. Whether you’re going for a subtle daytime look or a bold evening statement, there’s a brown lipstick out there for you. Celebrities are loving it, beauty brands are offering a plethora of shades, and you should definitely hop on this trend before it fades (if it ever does).
So go ahead—embrace your inner ‘90s supermodel or modern-day diva and swipe on a shade of brown that makes you feel confident, glamorous, and effortlessly chic.
