When the weather starts to get warmer, I tend to reach for lighter makeup. Heavy lipsticks can feel a bit too much, so I usually gravitate towards softer, fresher colours instead.
Summer lip colours tend to be a bit more effortless – things like glossy finishes, sheer formulas and warmer tones that feel easy to wear throughout the day.
I think they just suit the season, but they’re also a lot more comfortable in the heat.
These are the lip colours I find myself reaching for most in summer.
Peachy nude lip colours
Peachy nude lip colours are one of the easiest shades to wear in summer. They have a slight warmth to them which makes the skin look a bit more sun-kissed, without feeling too heavy or overdone.
I tend to reach for these on days when I want something simple but still a bit more polished than a lip balm. They work especially well with glowy skin and soft makeup.
In summer, I usually prefer these in lighter formulas, like a sheer lipstick or tinted balm, as they feel more comfortable throughout the day.
If you’re fair skinned like me I recommend something like Revlon’s Bare Affair. You can see swatches and read my full review of Bare Affair here.
Soft coral lip colours
Soft coral is one of those shades that instantly feels like summer. It adds a bit of warmth to the face without feeling too bold.
I tend to prefer coral in lighter formulas, like a sheer lipstick or gloss, rather than anything too matte. It just feels easier to wear in warmer weather and doesn’t look as heavy.
It’s the kind of colour that works well with minimal makeup – just a bit of blush and mascara.
Glossy rose lip colours
Glossy rose shades are probably the most versatile option. They sit somewhere between pink and nude, which makes them easy to wear for both day and evening.
I often reach for these when I want something that feels a bit more polished but still natural.
A slightly glossy or satin finish tends to work best in summer. It gives the lips a softer look and doesn’t feel as heavy as a matte lipstick.
Try something like NARS – Dolce Vita. I reviewed this a few years ago in the older formula, but it’s the perfect lightweight rose.
Sheer berry lip colours
Sheer berry lip colours are a good option if you want something slightly deeper, especially in the evening.
They can look quite bold in the tube, but when applied lightly they give a softer, more natural flush of colour. Berry shades are great if you want something a bit more noticeable while still keeping the rest of your makeup quite minimal.
I usually prefer berry shades in a stain or balm-like formula, so they don’t feel too heavy. It’s one of those colours that can be built up if you want more intensity, but still looks quite effortless when worn lightly. Think Clinique’s Chubby Stick in Broadest Berry.
Hot pink lip colours
Hot pink lip colours can feel a bit intimidating, but in summer they can actually work really well.
I think the key is keeping everything else quite simple; minimal eye makeup, fresh skin, and letting the lip colour stand out slightly.
I tend to go for hot pinks in sheer formulas rather than anything too matte, as it makes the colour feel more wearable and less intense.
It’s a nice option if you want something a bit brighter, especially on warmer days.
Tinted lip balm
Tinted lip balms are probably the easiest option for summer.
They give a small amount of colour while still feeling very lightweight and comfortable, which is ideal when it’s warm.
I tend to reach for these on days when I don’t want to think too much about my makeup. They’re easy to apply without a mirror and can be reapplied throughout the day without it feeling like effort.
These are the summer lip colours I find myself coming back to each year.
Summer lip colours tend to feel a bit lighter and easier to wear than heavier lipsticks.
I find I naturally gravitate towards softer shades, glossier finishes and anything that doesn’t feel too high-maintenance throughout the day.
Whether it’s a peachy nude, a soft coral or just a tinted lip balm, the best options are usually the ones that feel comfortable and effortless.
Do you have a go-to lip colour for summer?
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