You May Want To Keep the Crazy Shades Tucked Away
Lipstick should always start with what makes you feel confident, comfortable, and like yourself. At the end of the day, what you put on your face is all about what you enjoy best, not what others crave! That said, certain shades tend to land as especially attractive because they read as polished or even a little daring in a fun way. If you’re choosing a color with date-night impact in mind, let’s go through which options to grab and which to forget about.
1. Classic True Red
Hey, there’s a reason this one’s so tried-and-true! A real red lipstick sends a clear, confident message without you needing to say a word. It looks intentional, put-together, and instantly elevates even the simplest outfit. If you want a shade that feels bold but timeless, this one rarely misses.
2. Blue-Red Crimson
If classic red isn’t your bag, don’t worry—red comes in many forms, and they’re all begging for a spot in your makeup bag! Crimson with a cool, blue undertone looks striking and crisp, especially under evening lighting. It also tends to make your smile look brighter, which is a detail people notice quickly.
3. Cherry Red
Cherry red feels lively and flirtatious while still staying classic, so it’s basically a win-win. It adds a playful pop that draws attention without looking heavy or severe, but it also offers a fresher touch. Seasons don’t matter with this one; it’s a winner either way!
4. Warm Tomato Red
Tomato red has a sunny warmth that reads friendly and approachable. Best of all, it’s surprisingly versatile, pairing beautifully with bronzy skin, golden jewelry, and soft neutral eye makeup. If you want something vibrant and inviting, you’ll love how this one wears.
Amirhossein Soltani on Unsplash
5. Soft Rose Pink
Okay, we know red is a solid choice, but what about pink? This shade’s also a wonderful choice! Opt for a soft rose pink that gives you that “effortless pretty” effect that’s also easy on the eyes. It’s romantic without being overly sweet, and it works well for daytime dates, too.
6. Peachy Barefaced Tone
A muted peachy shade looks clean, modern, and naturally flattering on many skin tones. It lets your features shine without competing with the rest of your makeup, so you score a low-key, close-up-friendly look.
7. Pinky Barefaced Tone
Pinky hues sit in that sweet spot between natural and polished, making it a classic choice any day of the week. The best part about it is that it gives your lips a soft boost while keeping the overall vibe relaxed.
8. Berry Stain
Though lipsticks are nice and bold, don’t underestimate the power of a stain! A berry stain looks like you’ve got naturally rosy lips, just more vivid and expressive. It comes across as effortless, and the slightly blurred finish can feel very kissable.
9. Raspberry Pink
Raspberry pink has energy, but it can still look sophisticated when the rest of your makeup’s balanced. It’s the kind of shade that turns heads with its upbeat and confident feel, so if you want a bright shade that doesn’t feel juvenile, raspberry’s a strong option.
10. Deep Wine
Who could turn away from a deep wine lipstick? It feels luxurious, bold, and a little mysterious without being harsh! It also stands out most when you keep everything else clean and well-blended. It’s dramatic. It’s elegant. And it’s a shade that makes attention happen.
With some of the good stuff out of the way, it’s time we swung to colors that get a cooler response from many men. Why? Often, they read as a little too intense or simply hard to approach visually. Come with us as we explore ten shades you might want to reconsider!
1. Chalky Barefaced Tone
A pale shade that’s lighter than your natural lip color can make your complexion look washed out in person. Many men read it as tired rather than polished, especially in daylight. That said, there’s nothing wrong with barefaced lips; just stick with a warmer or deeper shade since they usually land better.
2. Icy Frost Pink
Frosty pink can look dated, and the shimmer only emphasizes texture you might not want highlighted. In casual settings, it’s not as romantic as we hoped either. A satin or creamy rose shade tends to feel softer and more current.
3. Metallic Silver-Grey
Silver-toned lipstick is bold, but it can come across as harsh and difficult to connect with. The reflective finish draws attention to every line, which can make the look feel less inviting. Plenty of guys also associate it with themed makeup rather than everyday glam.
4. Cool-Toned Grey Barefaced Tone
A grey-based nude can make lips look lifeless, even when the rest of your makeup’s flawless. People often interpret the cool, muted tone as stern or unapproachable, so choosing a barefaced tone with pink, peach, or caramel undertones helps.
Johanne Pold Jacobsen on Unsplash
5. Neon Highlighter Pink
Neon pink is fun, don’t get us wrong! But it can overwhelm your features and steal attention from your eyes and smile. Men who prefer a softer look may see it as loud or attention-seeking, even if that’s not your intention. A bright pink with a slightly deeper base often feels more flattering.
6. Neon Orange
We love a good neon shade as much as the next person. However, orange can clash with a lot of outfits and look intense under indoor lighting. Some men even find it harder to appreciate up close because it doesn’t read as “natural” on the lips. If you love orange tones, a warm coral feels friendlier.
7. Very Dark, Matte Blackened Plum
A nearly black plum shade can look too intimidating to people who like classic beauty. Matte formulas in deep colors can also show dryness, which makes the finish look less comfortable. A glossy or satin deep berry keeps the drama while feeling more approachable.
8. Heavy Glitter Lipstick
Though chunky glitter can look playful, it can feel rough (visually and literally), which is a common complaint. Many men also assume it’s messy or high-maintenance because glitter tends to travel, so a fine shimmer gloss gives a similar sparkle with a smoother impression.
9. Powdery Lavender
Lavender lipstick can be chic in photos, but it often looks ashy or uneven in real life on many skin tones. It can give a “cool” vibe that some men interpret as distant rather than warm. Not to worry—a mauve or orchid shade keeps your lips in the purple family while reading more flattering.
10. Ultra-Matte, Cracked Brick Brown
Brick brown can emphasize cracking and make lips look dry, which is the last thing you want. That dryness is what tends to turn people off more than the color itself; it reads uncomfortable up close. A cream or soft-matte brown with a hydrated finish usually gets a better reaction.
