Spring is here, and it’s time to swap out those darker winter lipsticks for fun, fresh, and vibrant shades that feel light and breezy. Whether you love a bold statement lip or prefer understated elegance, there’s a spring-perfect lip color out there that’s just right for you. From corals to bold pinks, this guide will help you find lip shades that complement every skin tone and offer tips on finishes and outfit pairings.
Grab your favorite mirror and a swatch or two as we jump into the best shades of the season!
Fair Skin Tones
Fair skin has a delicate, luminous quality, making it the perfect base for softer, warm-toned lip colors. The key for fair skin is to avoid shades that are too stark or overpowering, and instead, lean into colors that enhance your natural flush.
Trending Shades for Fair Skin
- Peachy Corals: A warm coral shade with hints of peach is perfect for spring. It’s bright enough to complement sunlight and delicate enough not to overshadow your complexion.
- Rosy Pinks: Think soft petal pinks that mimic your natural lip color but with a little extra pop. Look for shades with blue undertones for an added brightness.
- Dusty Nudes: A warm nude with subtle pink or peach undertones will look effortlessly chic and polished. Be wary of nudes that lean too beige, as they might wash out pale skin.
Finishes to Try
- Glossy: Adds a youthful glow and pairs well with dewy springtime makeup.
- Sheer Tints: Perfect for an everyday look while keeping things light and airy.
Style Pairing
Pair your peachy coral or rosy pink lipstick with a flowy floral sundress or a pastel top. Keep the rest of your makeup minimal to create a soft, spring-ready look.
Medium Skin Tones
Medium skin tones thrive with shades that have a little extra depth and vibrance. The warmth in medium skin makes it versatile, so you can experiment with a broader range of colors.
Trending Shades for Medium Skin
- Bright Corals: A slightly richer coral, bordering on orange, will pop against medium skin. It’s a go-to for bright spring days.
- Rosewood Reds: Perfect for a more polished look, rosewood tones combine red and brown for a shade that feels bold without being too intense.
- Berry Pinks: Think magenta or fuchsia for a playful pop of color that screams spring freshness.
Finishes to Try
- Satin: A beautiful finish for medium skin that looks glowing but not overly shiny.
- Matte: Great for bold lips that last all day without needing constant touch-ups.
Style Pairing
Berry pinks pair perfectly with jeans, a white top, and a light blazer for casual spring outings, while coral lips add a spark to evening maxi dresses in warm shades like yellow or orange.
Olive Skin Tones
Olive skin has a natural warmth with greenish undertones, creating the perfect canvas for unique and striking lip colors. The key here is contrast – look for colors that make your natural undertones stand out beautifully.
Trending Shades for Olive Skin
- Orange-Toned Corals: A fiery coral with a strong orange undertone will amplify the golden glow of olive skin.
- Warm Mauves: A mauve with hints of brown or taupe is the ultimate combination of trendy and flattering.
- Sunset Pinks: Vibrant yet warm, these pinks mimic the beauty of spring sunsets and harmonize with olive skin.
Finishes to Try
- Glossy Balms: Easy to apply and perfect for adding a natural sheen.
- Full-Matte Lipsticks: Ideal for bright corals or mauves when you want a bold, polished pout.
Style Pairing
For a carefree spring vibe, pair your orange-toned coral lipstick with a bohemian-inspired dress in earthy tones. For evenings, sunset pink lips look stunning with chic monochromatic linen outfits.
Deep Skin Tones
Deep skin tones can pull off rich, saturated colors and bold choices that make a statement. For spring, it’s about leaning into brighter palettes without losing that sophisticated edge.
Trending Shades for Deep Skin
- Tangerine Orange: A vibrant orange shade pops beautifully on deeper skin while adding a fresh, lively feel to any look.
- Bold Fuchsias: Bright, bold pinks are the ultimate match for deep skin, creating striking contrast and eye-catching appeal.
- Rich Berries: Deep berry tones with purple undertones are perfect for creating drama while staying on-trend for spring.
Finishes to Try
- Creamy Satin: Creates a hydrated, luxurious look that enhances the vibrancy of bold shades.
- High-Gloss: Perfect for making your lips the star of the show during sunny spring days.
Style Pairing
Bring out bright fuchsia lips by pairing them with a colorful jumpsuit or bold patterns. Tangerine orange lips work incredibly well with simple white tops or bright pink spring dresses for a daring, high-fashion feel.
How to Choose the Right Shade for You
Still unsure which spring lip shade to pick? Here’s a quick cheat sheet to help you narrow it down!
- Know Your Undertones: If your skin has warm undertones, go for lipsticks with hints of gold, orange, or peach. If you have cool undertones, lean into shades with blue or purple accents.
- Test Before You Commit: Test lipsticks on your wrist or, ideally, on your lips in natural lighting. Don’t rely on how it looks in the tube.
- Consider the Occasion: For casual daylight wear, opt for softer or sheer finishes. For evening events, go bold with intense pigments and rich finishes.
Mix and Match Finishes
Spring is the season to play! Don’t feel boxed into one type of finish. Layer a matte lipstick with a touch of gloss at the center of your lips for fullness. Or try a satin lipstick and dab it lightly with your fingers for a just-kissed effect.
Caring for Your Lips This Spring
Spring can sometimes mean unpredictable weather, which can dry out lips. Keep your pout in top shape with these tips:
- Exfoliate Regularly: Use a gentle sugar scrub 1-2 times a week to buff away dead skin.
- Hydrate Daily: Invest in a quality lip balm with SPF to lock in moisture and protect against the sun.
- Prime Before Color: Use a lip primer or a thin layer of balm before applying lipstick for a smooth application.
Spring is all about color, renewal, and joy, and there’s no easier way to bring that energy into your life than with the perfect lipstick. Whether your style is understated or daring, there’s a spring lip shade waiting to become your signature.
