I’m sure you may have noticed by now, but editors don’t joke around when it comes to at least two things—lipstick and fall. We’ve shared countless favorites in every department when it comes to shopping for the season, but lipstick is an important part of any fall makeup look that just can’t be overlooked. While we obviously have our list of “all time best” lipstick formulas, consider this list a comprehensive guide to the seasonal favorite hues that we’ll be wearing on repeat. If you’re in need of a new fall lip color and want to know which ones Who What Wear editors wholeheartedly approve, keep on scrolling. All our picks are ahead.
It’s not fall to me without a good mauve-toned lip shade. ColourPop’s Lippie Stix are my go to lipsticks year-round, but this rosy mauve shade is so great for daytime events and to wear to the office.
Whenever I’m feeling even slightly luxurious, I’ll whip out my favorite Chanel lipstick. I was initially a bit skeptical about this shade because I wasn’t sure how it would look on my olive skin tone, but you can quite literally, color me impressed. It’s now one of my favorites and is a great hue for everyday wear.
If I had to choose one nude lipstick to wear for the rest of my life, it would be this warmer nude shade from Merit. I tried it upon its launch and remember being immediately impressed with the color payoff, hydration it provided, and its impressive staying power. Who What Wear editor Jennifer Camp Forbes is also a fan of this lipstick in the shade Baby. “I am a forever fan of lipsticks that closely match my natural lip color but are able to give it a flattering boost—Merit’s Signature Lip in the shade Baby does this perfectly. Not only that, but the neutral pink color is great for everyday wear, it’s buildable, has a clean formula, and the packaging is super chic.” — Forbes
Charlotte Tilbury lipsticks never disappoint. This light pink-toned nude looks gorgeous on every skin tone and gives you pillow-soft lips every time.
“I know spending almost $50 on a lipstick is a little bit insane but trust me, this lipstick lasts forever and is so worth it. This product was my first introduction to Gucci beauty and ever since, I have been a huge fan. If you’re looking for the perfect warm, hazel shade of toffee brown, then look no further. This long-lasting satin lipstick is my go to for when I’m going for a fall makeup look. With latte makeup trending on TikTok I have a feeling I’ll be using this lipstick more than ever before. Not to mention the packaging is so dang gorgeous.” — Grace O’Connell Joshua, assistant shopping editor
Both Who What Wear assistant beauty editor Maya Thomas and assistant fashion editor Sierra Mayhew touted this stunning YSL shade as a fall must-have. “Finding brown-nude shades that compliment my deep skin tone can be somewhat challenging, but since I discovered YSL Rouge Volupté Shine Lipstick Balm in Burnt Zellige, my hunt for the ideal fall shade is over. This lipstick balm offers medium coverage with a high-shine finish and an ultra-hydrating formula featuring nourishing oils, pomegranate extract, and macadamia butter. The shade is a perfect, toasty brown with a hint of red; perfect for everyday wear.” — Thomas
“I love that this lipstick is packaged in a classic gold bullet, which makes me feel so chic when I pull it out of my purse. What I love more, though, is its diverse shade range. The shade I’m currently most intrigued by is called Myra Crimson, and it’s the perfect high-impact red. This will be the lipstick I’ll wear on a night out or whenever I want to feel bold and sultry.” — Kaitlyn McLintock, associate beauty editor
For fall, beauty editor Katie Berohn loves this bold and creamy red shade from Armani. It has a rich, balmy texture that applies like a moisturizer, but leaves a velvety satin finish.
“In the past, I haven’t had a lot of luck when it came to choosing the right nude lipstick. The shades either veered too pink or too beige; the former looked too obvious and the latter washed me out. This shade is perfect. Sure, it’s pink, but it’s not too bright, so it maintains a low-key, sophisticated look. I love it. Plus, I love the formula’s high-shine effect.” — McLintock
“I’m obsessed with this Kosas Lip Oil—it goes absolutely everywhere with me. It’s hydrating, not too sticky, and the colorway I wear is the perfect preview to fall thanks to the darker undertones. I’ve influenced so many friends to try it.” — Mayhew
This deep, mysterious shade of burgundy really sets the stage. It embodies everything I love about the fall color palette and I’ll be wearing it to every holiday party, event, and office day for the coming months. Sorry (but I’m not).
I love how there seem to be so many different colors packed into this one shade. Sure, it’s essentially a gorgeous deep burgundy, but there are also hints of red and brown that really make it unique. The $9 price tag doesn’t hurt, either.
