These Are the Best Red Lipsticks Right Now—2025 Edition
Let’s talk red lipstick—the ultimate power move in a tube. It’s bold, it’s confident, it’s got main character energy. Honestly, it’s been serving looks since ancient times (Cleopatra was rocking red long before it hit runways and red carpets).
A red lip is like the little black dress of the beauty world: effortlessly chic and never out of style. Whether you're channeling Old Hollywood glam or just want to spice up your Tuesday coffee run, there’s a red for that.
But here’s the twist: with about a million shades out there (okay, slight exaggeration), finding your perfect crimson can feel like swiping through dating apps—overwhelming, exciting, and occasionally disastrous.
That’s where I come in. I’ve kissed a lot of frogs (read: tested tons of formulas) to find the absolute best reds worth your precious lip space. From fire-engine mattes to juicy cherry stains, these are the 10 reds you’ll want on repeat.
Ready to meet your lipstick soulmate? Let’s do this. 💋
Click on the images for links*
THE ICON
Dior Rouge Dior in 999
Finish: Matte | Undertone: True Red
There’s a reason this lipstick is basically the Beyoncé of reds. "999" is the truest red you’ll find—no orange, no blue, just classic, straight-up red. Universally flattering, endlessly chic, and totally timeless. If you’ve never tried it, you’re missing out on a beauty rite of passage. $49
THE SOPHISTICATED SIREN
Lisa Eldridge Rouge Experience in 186 Ribbon
Finish: Luminous | Undertone: Neutral
Lisa Eldridge said, "Let's reinvent the red," and she delivered. 186 Ribbon is a dreamy, silky red with a soft sheen and the cutest teardrop bullet that actually makes application easier. It smooths, glides, and looks like you’ve just stepped out of a vintage film. $59
THE COUTURE QUEEN
Hermès Rouge Hermès in 68 Rouge Bleu
Finish: Matte | Undertone: Magenta
A matte ruby red with a powdery finish that feels like a velvet robe for your lips. Bonus: When someone inevitably asks what you’re wearing, you get to say, “Oh, it’s Hermès.” Cue dramatic wink. Très chic. $77
THE LUXE COLLECTIBLE
By Terry Rouge Opulent in Red Alert
Finish: Velvet | Undertone: Neutral-warm
Encased in a glam Art Deco-inspired golden mesh, this one’s a stunner even before you apply it. The formula? Creamy, luminous, hydrating, and straight-up fabulous. It’s giving “movie star in a vintage convertible.” $65
THE SPICY ONE
Charlotte Tilbury Matte Revolution in Fame Flame
Finish: Matte | Undertone: Orange
This is the lipstick equivalent of salsa dancing in a red dress. Hot-chili red with a flattering matte finish and 3D glow pigments to make your lips look instantly fuller. For warm-toned beauties, this one's a must. $35
THE EVERYDAY GLAM
Chanel Rouge Allure in 176 Independante
Finish: Luminous | Undertone: Neutral
Think of this as your power red that still works for daytime meetings or grocery runs. It’s creamy, buildable, and makes lips look smoother and feel hydrated. Five-hour wear? Oui, please. $50
THE BURGUNDY MUSE
Gucci Rouge à Lèvres in 509 Rosso Ancora
Finish: Matte | Undertone: Blue
This shade changed my entire opinion on burgundy lipsticks. Deep, dramatic, and somehow still wearable. If anyone can make me fall for a moody red, it’s Gucci. And they did—in one swipe. $49
THE PHILANTHROPIC BEAUTY
Chantecaille Lip Veil in Portulaca
Finish: Sheer Sheen | Undertone: Magenta
A red lipstick that helps protect elephants? Yes, please. This lightweight, nourishing lipstick leaves behind a luminous red tint and a happy heart. A feel-good formula in every sense. $55
THE DESIGN LOVER’S DREAM
Westman Atelier Lip Suede in Le Rouge
Finish: Matte | Undertone: Orange
Yes, it’s a tomato red. Yes, it's pricey. But the packaging is practically a work of art. Magnetic closure, heart detail, secret mirror—it’s lipstick meets jewelry box. Plus, the color? Chef’s kiss. $50
THE NEW CRUSH
Monika Heiligmann Elixir de Volume in Romance Française
Finish: Gloss | Undertone: Neutral
This was a surprise gift, and let me just say—WOW. It’s a high-shine gloss that’s also a lip-plumping serum, and it actually works. Like, noticeably. Consider it your new go-to for juicy, kiss-me lips without the needles. $120
FINAL THOUGHTS
Whether you're a matte girl, a gloss lover, or somewhere in between, there’s a red in this list that’ll light up your look (and your confidence). Don’t be afraid to experiment—red is never just red. It’s power, passion, and play all rolled into one tube. Which red are you dying to try? 💋 DM me on Instagram!
*This website may contain affiliate links, meaning I get a commission if you decide to make a purchase through my links, at no cost to you.
