9 Cult-Classic Nude Lipsticks That Belong in Every Lip Wardrobe

Oldies but really goodies.

By Danielle Fontana Dooley and Carolyn Hsu · Sep 11, 2020

With the explosion in popularity of nude lipsticks, there’s no shortage of new launches. And while we love a shiny new tube of neutral goodness, there’s something to be said about a tried-and-true classic that stands the test of time and trends. Below, six nude lipsticks (all best-sellers) that have earned cult-classic status. One swipe and you’ll understand why.

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1 / 9

Bobbi Brown Luxe Lip Color in Pink Buff ($38)

This muted rosy-brown is the number-one best-selling nude lip color from the makeup artist’s expansive line, which speaks for itself. The bullet itself is creamy and nourishing—it even helps to camouflage stubborn lip lines—and leaves behind a satin finish.

2 / 9

Tom Ford Lip Color Lipstick in Indian Rose ($55)

A best-seller time and time again, this warm-toned pinky nude boasts a slight shimmer (great for faking the look of a fuller pout) and full-coverage wear that rivals a lip stain.

3 / 9

Urban Decay Vice Lipstick in Backtalk ($17)

A color so iconic that it inspired an entire palette, this creamy, saturated lipstick skews mauvy-pink and is ideal for anyone who is nervous that a pure nude might wash them out.

4 / 9

Clinique Almost Lipstick in Pink Honey ($18)

The nude cousin to Clinique’s wildly popular Black Honey, Pink Honey is just as universally flattering and low-maintenance to use. Swipe this on for a natural-nude hue that doesn’t even require a mirror to apply.

5 / 9

MAC Matte Lipstick Velvet Teddy ($18)

A beautiful true-nude, this bullet gives the look of a matte liquid lipstick without any of the drying side effects. The creamy formula looks good on all skin tones, as attested by almost 3,000 reviewers giving this classic color a 4.6/5 rating.

6 / 9

Charlotte Tilbury Matte Revolution Pillow Talk ($34)

This nudish-pink color looks amazing on a variety of skin tones and has enough depth to give the look of fuller lips immediately. The angular bullet allows for super precise application. No wonder it’s such a hit with celebs of all ages.

7 / 9

NARS Dolce Vita Velvet Matte Lip Pencil ($27)

One of the most iconic colors ever created by NARS, Dolce Vita is a gorgeous rosy-nude that nails the “your natural lips but better” look. The pencil is creamy and gives a long-lasting, non-drying finish.

8 / 9

L’Oréal Colour Riche Lipcolour Fairest Nude ($9)

A dead ringer for that “J Lo” nude lip, this classic lipstick is also one of the sexiest. The super moisturizing formula is comfortable and long-lasting. It’s really no wonder that this has been a favorite for generations of women.

9 / 9

ColourPop Ultra Blotted Lip in Zuma ($6)

A modern classic, this liquid lip gives a diffused, just-blotted finish that both looks and acts low-maintenance. This warm nude is one the brand’s best-sellers.