When it comes to summer makeup, I generally prefer to go bare faced or wear a lightweight foundation. Since I have combination skin, heat, humidity, and sweat tend to aggravate my complexion (not to mention melt away a full makeup look). However, I LOVE to rock a bright, highly pigmented lipstick color for dinner in the summer.
If you’re going to wear lipstick in this heat, go big! Your tan and crisp whites deserve a pop of fun, flirty color. Here are the three best bold lipstick shades (with major color payoff) that I love for summer.
The Best Bold Summer Lipstick Shades
Hourglass Opaque Rouge Liquid Lipstick in Riviera
Years ago I saw Jessica Alba wearing this on the red carpet. I immediately Googled to find out it was this bright orange lipstick shade in shade Riviera by Hourglass. It’s the same shade I’m wearing in the above photos.
I mean, the name is called Riviera, which is basically screaming summer lipstick shade, no? This is probably my favorite lipstick color for summer.
This is a liquid lipstick that goes on really smooth. I apply a couple of layers to get it extra bright, but you can also tone down the punchy tangerine hue a bit by wearing it over a balm or under lip gloss. (Although it wears much, much longer when worn by itself.)
This lipstick leaves a velvet, almost matte lip finish.
Shop Hourglass Liquid Lipstick in Riviera
Nars Original Lipstick in Jungle Red
Although I love NARS lipstick in Jungle Red for summer, it’s actually a shade I reach for year-round.
This not-too orange, perfect red shade has been a makeup staple in my drawer for years, and one of NARS’ 10 original lipstick colors that launched the brand. It was also the first red lipstick I ever purchased. Because of the subtle blue undertones, this classic red lipstick looks great on all skin tones and makes teeth appear brighter.
If you’re looking for a classic red lip with a semi-matte finish for summer, this lipstick is it. (A matching lip liner is also available in this shade.)
Shop NARS Lipstick in Jungle Red
Kosas Weightless Lipstick in Violet Fury
A hot pink lipstick is so fun for the summer, and gives a playful pop of color.
I’m a huge fan of Kosas products and many of the brand’s items have become ones I use in my everyday makeup routine. This lip shade in Violet Fury doesn’t disappoint. Despite its name (although there are purple undertones) this lipstick is the perfect bright pink shade.
Kosas lipsticks feature ingredients like Shea Butter and Jojoba Oil to glide on buttery smooth and hydrate lips.
Shop Kosas Lipstick in Violet Fury
Have fun with your lipsticks this summer! If you don’t think you can pull off a bright color, I promise you, you can. I was never one for a bright lipstick until about 5 years ago, and started to embrace it whenever I was in a rut and needed a pick-me-up.
During the summer, a bright lipstick is my secret to looking put together, especially after a long day outside when I don’t want to get fully ready.
I just throw my hair in a low, sleek bun; put on a bright pink, red, or coral lip; and then add some gold jewelry. Voila! Instantly chic, and minimal effort required.
