Plum Lipstick Is the Pick of the Season

With cooler weather comes darker, richer, cozier colors. Jewel tones come out to play in a big way during the winter in every aspect from clothing to decor, and your makeup look should be no exception. Lucky for us, lipstick is having a moment, especially plum lipstick: Research found that searches for “plum lipstick” grew more than 413% since last year.

Makeup artist and cofounder of Just B, Bina Khan, chalks up the surge in popularity to people wanting a bit more glamour in their life following a year in sweatpants. “Mask-free at last in the winter, out and wanting to feel glam? Bring on the smart, grown-up, glamorous, dynamic plum!” said Khan.

Celebrity makeup artist Jamie Dorman explained that plum lipstick has some superpowers. “Plum lips tend to make teeth look brighter and whiter, as well as making blue and green eye colors pop,” said Dorman. He added that since lighter eyeshadow looks are trending right now, it would make sense that a bolder lip would be trending to balance out the minimalist eye makeup.

There is a shade of plum for everyone. Dorman said, “fair skin looks best with more blue-toned plums, whereas deeper skin tones look best with warmer plums.” He noted that the cooler-toned plums flatter teeth more. 

Celebrity makeup artist and founder of Glamazon Beauty Kim Baker suggested a subtle makeup look with soft golds or taupes on the eyes and a soft wine blush. Dorman also advised keeping the rest of your look toned down with your lips as the focal point. “Plum lips pair best with dewy skin and minimal eyeshadow,” she says. The only thing missing: high-impact mascara.

These three makeup artists shared their favorite plum lipstick picks for the season.

1 / 8

Bobbi Brown Crushed Lip Color in Plum ($29)

Baker recommended this shade of plum from Bobbi Brown. The bold color is the perfect quintessential shade of plum.

2 / 8

Kari Gran Jeannie Lip Whip ($24)

If you’re looking for an easy-to-wear, moisturizing plum color, Dorman said the Jeannie Lip Whip—it wears almost like a tinted balm—is your best bet.

3 / 8

Glamazon Beauty Lady Like Cheek-N-Lip ($20)

Formulated with hyaluronic acid, this gorgeous plum shade will keep your lips luscious and hydrated for hours. The rich color of Baker’s suggestion will provide you with the bold plum look you seek.

4 / 8

Rituel de Fille Enchanted Lip Sheer in Moonseed ($24)

Dorman said this product is great for a buildable look. The lip stain is the rich color of blackberries with a very subtle shine.

5 / 8

Just B Not Just Magenta ($38)

Khan explained that this spectrum of colors in this product covers both the warm and cool ends with the Pigment Fluid and Pigment Glaze. “The color can go from matte raspberry red to juicy pomegranate purple,” she said.

6 / 8

Mac Frosted Lipstick in Plum Dandy ($19)

If you’re looking for a lighter, frosted shade of plum to get started, Baker suggested Plum Dandy from Mac.

7 / 8

Wonderskin Wonder Blading Peel and Reveal Lip Kit in Darling ($28)

If you’re looking for a lip color that will last all day, Dorman suggested this long-wear product that’s transfer-proof and water-proof.

8 / 8

Revlon Super Lustrous Lipstick, Plum Velour ($6)

For a great bargain buy, Baker suggested this gorgeous shade of plum from Revlon.