When it comes to makeup, lipstick color, textures, and finishes tend to change up the most and the lipstick trends of 2026 prove just that. Just a few months ago for fall and winter, everything was all about bold expression—think: deep, moody, and intense. Now as we close out one year and are about to dive headfirst into another, trends are starting shift all over again.
The easiest way to try out a new lipstick trend but still keep it subtle is by tailoring the entire makeup look around that lip color. Go for similar shades throughout—but not identical ones—to create a cohesiveness without being too matchy-matchy. “Using a similar shade on eyes, cheeks, and lips creates a cohesive look that feels very 2026,” says makeup artist Kelly Zhang, founder of the eponymous line Kelly Zhang Makeup
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Expect a mixed bag in the new year: wearable pinks, the resurgence of bold statement lips, sheer blurred lines, and high shine. Ahead, professional makeup artists share their top lipstick trends for 2026, along with how to get the look and product recommendations.
Smoky Rose
Reds, nudes and deep saturated tones have been holding strong for the last few years. Now pink hues are making a splash in the new year. Low-saturation pinks like smoky rose will be a go-to. “They’re soft, low-saturation pinks that brighten the face without looking heavy, perfect for a clean, effortless look,” says Zhang.
Not quite the Barbie pink that had the masses in a chokehold in 2023, this 2026 lipstick trend tone is softer and less intense while offering a bit more in the way of color than a typical nude shade would. It’s the ideal balance of effortless and polished and is a far cry from the popular tired girl makeup trends.
Gothic Black
Moody black lipstick has had its moments over the years but never in a way that totally broke into the mainstream. Black lipstick “adds depth, drama, and a fearless edge that’s perfect for runway or editorial moments,” explains Zhang. As the trends shift away from the “clean girl” aesthetic and move back into the age of maximalist makeup, deeply pigmented, eye-catching black lipstick will become more popularized for those who aren’t afraid of shaking things up.
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Cloud Lips
Keeping in theme with Cloud Dancer, a “lofty white” that was dubbed by Pantone as the 2026 color of the year, cloud lips follow the same light and airy feel. Similar to the blurred lips trend, Zhang notes that sheer balms and blurred tints will remain popular in the upcoming year. Cloud lips add a wash of color with a soft-focus finish, making it perfect for an everyday look.
Lip liners with a harsh edge tend to look unnatural, but by blurring the lip liner down into the lip it creates an effortless feel that’s very French and K-beauty-inspired. “This coming year is all about the blurred lip line,” says Zhang. “Instead of a sharp outline, we’re softening and diffusing the edges for a natural, lived-in finish.”
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Vinyl Lips
There’s always a battle in the lipstick world between matte and high shine, and this year juicy, glossy lips are coming out on top. Zhang points out that this trend’s vinyl finish gives the illusion of fuller lips. To nail this lipstick trend for 2026, lip glosses, oils, and stains will be a go-to in addition to traditional lipstick with a shiny finish.
While a high-shine vinyl finish will be top of mind in the new year, it doesn’t mean you need to completely give up matte or satin. In fact, they can all work together to make something totally new with a little creativity. Strategic layering is your friend and does wonders for adding a little dimension. “Layer a satin lipstick with gloss in the center,” says Zhang. “It makes the lips look fuller and more alive.”
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Cherry Red
Bring your holiday red lip into 2026. “This year, lips come back with personality,” says Jaleesa Jaikaran, celebrity makeup artist and Ulta Beauty pro team expert. “Clean, radiant skin paired with a saturated lip instantly feels polished and powerful whether you’re reaching for a rich brick brown, a true red, or a bold pink. It’s a simple equation but the impact is always a moment.”
For a matte lip that lasts, Jaikaran says prep is key. “I always exfoliate with the damp edge of a towel followed by lip balm, letting it sit for a few minutes,” she says. “This preps the skin and allows for a smoother application. I find matte and blurring formulas perform even better with the right prep.”
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Frequently asked questions
What lipstick shades suit deeper skin tones?
According to Zhang, deeper skin tones work well with rich, saturated color. Look for deep berries, plums, warm browns, terra-cotta reds, and bold oranges. However, less pigmented, warm shades also work on these skin tones. She says that “for a softer look, caramel nudes and warm rose shades enhance the lips without washing them out.”
What lipstick shades suit fair skin?
On the flip side, fair or lighter skin tones tend to look great with soft pinks, rosy nudes, peachy corals, and muted berry tones. These shades easily add a natural touch of warmth without overwhelming the complexion. However, for those with lighter skin tones who want a bolder look, a classic blue-red can brighten the whole face.
What are lip liner trends for 2026?
In 2026, lip liner trends include lip liner as allover lip color, brown-rose colors, and creamy, hydrating liners. Using lip liner as allover color delivers longer wear and a soft matte finish. Warm neutrals like brown or rose make lips appear fuller and work well with glossy or sheer textures while creamy, hydrating liners add a level of comfort by not drying out the lips.
Matte vs. glossy lipstick trends: Which is more popular?
According to Zhang, glossy lips are taking the lead. “Clients are asking for lip oils, hydrating glosses, and stain-gloss hybrids because they give that healthy, plump, skin-first glow,” she says. “Gloss feels effortless and modern, but matte isn’t gone, it’s just evolved. The new matte formulas are softer, more comfortable, and less drying, so I still reach for them when I want a clean, long-wear, editorial finish.”