Make-up artist Roberta Anzaldi reveals how to match lipstick to hair colour.
Choosing the right shade can feel like a puzzle, but Anzaldi says the key is letting the undertone of your hair speak to the colour of your lips. "A pro tip for choosing the right lipstick colour is to make the undertone talk to the hair," she explains, adding that a monochromatic approach works best for a pared‑down look.
Brown hair: earthy tones that echo depth
For those with brown hair, Anzaldi recommends earthy lipstick shades that mirror the richness of the hair. Rosy browns and soft plum hues naturally recall the depth of brown strands, while deeper berry colours such as cherry and burgundy red also complement the palette. "All of these colours help to accentuate and define the face and look especially flattering on those with brown hair," she notes.
These shades create a seamless blend, allowing the lips to enhance the overall appearance without clashing. Anzaldi suggests opting for satin or balm finishes to keep the look hydrated and comfortable throughout the day.
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Blonde hair: cool pinks and bright hues
Blonde hair, especially ash or platinum tones, turns the lipstick into the focal point of the face. Cool pinks, mauve, rosy nudes and raspberry shades work best, brightening cool‑toned blondes while maintaining an elegant vibe. Anzaldi adds that peach, coral and tomato red hues can also lift the makeup look, and honey nudes provide a chic, understated option.
She advises choosing "blue reds" and cool pinks to keep the balance, noting that these colours complement the subtle undertones of blonde hair without overwhelming it. A satin texture again offers the right amount of shine and moisture.
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Red and grey hair: harmony and hydration
When it comes to red hair, Anzaldi stresses harmony over contrast. For copper and warm red shades, terracotta, cinnamon, burnt peach and warm nude lipsticks keep the look sophisticated. Cool or auburn reds pair nicely with soft berry, raspberry, rosy red and mauve tones.
Grey and white hair, meanwhile, looks radiant with almost any lipstick shade. To elevate the style, Anzaldi suggests mauve, bright berry, classic red, plum and rosewood hues. She recommends satin and balm textures for added hydration, ensuring the lips stay comfortable while the colour makes a statement.
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Frequently asked questions
What lipstick shades suit brown hair?
Earthy tones like rosy browns, soft plum hues, and deeper berry colours complement brown hair. Satin or balm finishes keep the look hydrated.
What lip colours go well with blonde hair?
Cool pinks, mauve, rosy nudes, and raspberry shades work best for blonde hair, especially ash or platinum tones. Blue reds and cool pinks maintain an elegant vibe.
What lipstick shades suit red hair?
For copper and warm red shades, terracotta, cinnamon, and warm nude lipsticks keep the look sophisticated. Cool or auburn reds pair nicely with soft berry tones.
What lip colours suit grey hair?
Grey and white hair looks radiant with almost any lipstick shade. The key is to find a shade that elevates the style and provides harmony.
