The 4 Best Fall Lip Colors to Try in 2021 (and One Hue That's Best Left in the Past)

Can you believe that fall is right around the corner? We’re already pumped for comfy sweaters and warm beveragess, and our lipsticks will be getting a major makeover, too. It’s time to say goodbye to the bright shades we’ve been rocking all summer and hello to darker hues for the fall. Presenting: the best fall lip colors to try in 2021 (and one hue that’s best left in the past).

Neutral Tones

Neutral tones are always in for fall. Think: Nude shades that match closely to your complexion. These colors can range from pinks to browns and they brighten up your face for everyday occasions—whether you're headed to brunch or FaceTiming with mom.

1. Dior Rouge Dior Forever Liquid Transfer-Proof Lipstick

You don’t have to worry about smudges or stains when it comes to this $38 find. The liquid formula is long-lasting (with up to 12 hours of wear) and transfer-proof, so you can rock the shade all day. It comes in ten shades, but "100 Forever Nude" is what we’re into this fall.

2. Gucci Rouge de Beauté Brillant Glow & Care Shine Lipstick

"Call It A Day" is the neutral shade of the season. Color aside, the creamy lipstick also delivers a host of skincare benefits with hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid and jojoba oil.

3. Charlotte Tilbury Hyaluronic Happikiss Lipstick Balm

This hybrid combines the creamy texture and pigmentation of a lipstick with the hydration of a lip balm.

4. Rare Beauty by Selena Gomez Lip Souffle Matte Cream Lipstick

If you're looking for vegan options, this matte-cream lipstick is the way to go."Fearless" is our go-to pick for daily wear because the color is subtle, yet striking. Once applied, it feels lightweight, soft and hydrating on the lips.

5. Armani Beauty Lip Power Long Lasting Satin Lipstick

With "long lasting" in the name, you can expect to keep your color on for hours. The formula is also infused with protective oils to keep your pout hydrated throughout the day.

6. Buxom Full Force '90s Nudes Plumping Lipstick

With a name like "Supermodel," it's enough to make us want to add it to our bags. The subtle shade lets you unleash your inner Cindy Crawford with a lip plumping formula and rosy satin finish.

Purple Hues

Plum, berry, burgundy and mauve are just a few popular shades within the purple family. Rest assured, there are ways to rock the color without looking like you dove headfirst into a dessert pie.

7. Huda Beauty Matte Cream Liquid Lipstick

This liquid lipstick is ready to make a statement. It glides on smoothly, while leaving behind a satin finish. "Bawse," which is a rich burgundy shade, is berry much (sorry, we had to) a fan favorite for its bold pigmentation.

8. Estée Lauder Pure Color Envy Hi-Lustre Light Sculpting Lipstick

For a rich purple hue, reach for "Plum Bite." The curved tip gives you a precise application (so you never have to worry about getting color outside the lines).

9. Lime Crime Velvetines Matte Liquid Lipstick

Inspired by the founder's love of roses, this liquid lipstick packs a punch in color. The "Beet It" shade brings out the vibrancy of purple that's festive for any fall shindig.

10. Chantecaille Lip Veil Lipstick

Chantecaille is missing a photo/Bonsai link. Featuring a combo of fairwild and baobab oil, this hydrating lipstick is worth the splurge. "Elderberry" is a rich purple hue that works for special occasions.

11. RMS Beauty Wild with Desire Lipstick

If you're searching for a clean beauty pick, look no further than this "Jezebel" shade. It has a rich berry color with a ton of hydrating benefits.

12. Anastasia Beverly Hills Liquid Lipstick

While some matte formulas dry out your lips, this one stays smooth and comfortable for up to 8 hours. Plus, the applicator makes the lipstick glide on like butter.

Rosy Reds

Fact: You can never go wrong with a red lip. The vibrant shade is a classic and fits well with the season. We love a nice rosy red or a burgundy hue depending on the occasion. Regardless of how bright or deep you go, you're sure to make a statement every time you wear it.

13. NARS Matte Lipstick Pencil

Whether you use this as a lip liner or a stand-alone lip color, this slim crayon will get the job done. The creamy formula has vitamin E and other moisturizing emollients to keep your lips flake-free, while delivering vivid color that will surely turn heads all season.

14. Fenty Beauty Stunna Lip Paint Longwear Fluid Lip Color

Look up "rosy red" in the dictionary and chances are this lipstick will come up. The unique wand applicator makes it easy to swipe onto your lips and define their shape. The color is vibrant and leaves a soft-matte finish that doesn't ever compete with the rest of your makeup.

15. L'Oréal Paris Colour Riche Lipstick

This budget-friendly pick is infused with nourishing ingredients (i.e., argan and sesame seed oil) to improve shine and comfort. One coat will give you bold red lips and keep them moisturized for the rest of the day.

16. Beauty Bakerie Lip Whip Matte Liquid Lipstick

A pop of red that doesn't smudge, fade or dry out? Yes, please. "Mon Cheri" has a budge-proof matte finish that won't leave any stains on your pearly whites.

17. YVES Saint Tatouage Couture Velvet Cream Liquid Lipstick

This is one lip stain that's definitely in the ultra pigment department. The wide-tipped applicator lays down just the right amount of color every time. (We're obsessed with "Rouge Tatouage," which is a bright tomato red.)

18. Givenchy Le Rouge Deep Velvet Matte Lips

It's the buttery texture that makes this a winner. The key ingredient—mango butter—makes this matte lipstick lightweight and smooth on your lips.

Browns

Another '90s and early '00s trend that re-emerged this year? Brown lipsticks. The seasonally appropriate shade works on all complexions, which is why you'll want one in your bag ASAP.

19. Tower28 Beauty ShineOn Milky Lip Jelly

Glossy lips will always be in (sorry we don't make the rules). This Internet favorite comes in six shades but it's "Almond" (a chocolatey brown hue) that has us re-purchasing over and over again. Plus, the vegan formula has apricot, raspberry seed and castor oil to moisturize lips.

20. Maybelline Super Stay Matte Ink Liquid Lipstick

The shade "Mocha Inventor" is a must-have for fall. The arrow-shaped tip makes application quick and efficient. Plus, the liquid matte formula wears for up to 16 hours–with no flakes or dry patches.

21. Sigma Beauty Liquid Lipstick

The "Suede" shade reminds us of a warm cup of Joe and snuggling in a fleece blanket. It applies smoothly (thanks to the doe foot applicator) and the rich brown hue is deeply flattering.

22. Smashbox Always On Cream to Matte Lipstick

This $24 find checks all of the boxes: it's waterproof, highly pigmented and comfortable. There's no need to reapply (or retouch) this cream-to-matte lipstick.

23. Melt Cosmetics Undertone Noods Liquid Lipstick

A deep gorgeous brown can elevate your look times ten. The liquid formula dries down quickly into a velvety, matte finish.

24. Bite Beauty Power Move Creamy Matte Lip Crayon

The vegan formula features pomegranate extract, mango butter and orange peel wax to hydrate, nourish and protect your lips. The deep brown shade and slim applicator is a major bonus.

The one color to leave behind: Yes, orange reminds us of foliage, pumpkins and cozy knits. But unless you're going to a Halloween party in the middle of September, it might be best to skip the bright shade for the season.

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