Lip Stains: Our Picks Of The Best Colors And Brands

You already know that cherry red lips are hot for winter; they’ve been all over every red carpet since the Emmys. We found a flatter-everyone shade, and even told you how to keep it on your lips. But if you’re still not sold — or if you just want a scaled back version of the trend — look into lip stains. The results? You get the same sexy lips without looking like you’re trying too hard, and there are tons of wearable options out there.

Clinique Almost Lipstick ($14): I’ve been wearing the Black Honey tint of this fabulous product for as long as I can remember, and it’s never let me down. While the shade in the tube is a little intimidating, this goes on sheer and weightless so you can build color to your liking. As an added bonus, the juicy blackberry hue makes teeth look whiter and brighter.

Benefit BeneTint Pocket Pal ($20): How about a two-for-one? This dreamy duet stars Benefit’s famous, universally flattering Benetint on one end and shiny gloss on the other. Use the rosy-hued Benetint end to make it look like you just indulged in a glass of wine, then top with the gloss to make it look like you did so without messing up your makeup.

L’Oreal Color Juice Stick ($9): Everyone loves L’Oreal’s Color Juice lip glosses, but if you want to forego high shine in favor of subtle, natural tint, choose this sleek sister version. The stain smells sweet, like cotton candy, and goes on light and translucent. There are tons of flattering colors to choose from, and the end result is easy, natural and not too over-the-top.

Have a favorite lip stain that we missed? Let us know in the comment section below.