:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/editor-tested-mac-cosmetics-lipsticks-tout-2-adb8eeae1e5448a1bd223b66d7508793.jpg?w=1200&resize=1200,0&ssl=1 "InStyle Editors Have Loved These 7 MAC Lipsticks for Years—Here’s Why")
Makeup epiphanies and MAC lipsticks go hand-in-hand. Whether you swiped your signature shade from your mom’s makeup bag or carefully picked from the prismatic rows at its store counter, discovering the best MAC Cosmetics lipstick is a beauty rite of passage. “MAC has always been and will remain the blueprint for creative makeup. Every trend we see today was pioneered and perfected by the original MAC community, drawing inspiration from drag culture and the iconic supermodel era of the ’80s, ’90s, and early ‘2000s,” says celebrity makeup artist Andi Metro.
Even celebrities have their go-to MAC lipstick shades. Think of Jennifer Aniston as Rachel Green on Friends wearing a ’90s brown Paramount and Taylor Swift’s signature red color, Ruby Woo. We’re not immune to MAC’s illustrious pull either—InStyle editors have been wearing MAC lipsticks for years. Our favorite shades have outlasted apartments, relationships, and even jobs. That’s why they’re so worth adding to your makeup routine.
“Artists thrive without rules. MAC has consistently empowered customers to personalize their makeup experience by offering versatile products, such as mixing mediums and pigments, that encourage creativity and customization.” —celebrity makeup artist Andi Metro
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Shade: Ruby Woo
“I love wearing red lipstick when I need a boost of confidence or to up the glam, like a big meeting or date night, and this one is classic. It’s blue-red, which is best for my pale skin and red hair (plus it makes your teeth look whiter). Allegedly, it’s also one of Taylor Swift’s favorites, and that’s reason enough for me to try a lipstick—the Queen of Red Lips has never steered me wrong.” —Shannon Bauer, Associate Editorial Director
“As a Black woman, red lipsticks can be intimidating. Ruby Woo makes them feel approachable. It has a creamy, matte consistency that is super buildable, so you don’t get intimidated by the flush of pigment. It’s easy to reapply throughout the day and doesn’t cause cracking. It’s great for day-to-night wear. It was required at most of my sorority events, and I would go for over four hours with it on (and no reapplication). I recommend it to those who want to add a pop to their outfit, whether going in the office or heading to date night.” —Essence Wiley, Writer
InStyle
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Shade: Alone Time
“This is genuinely the perfect nude lipstick for my tan complexion. It glides on effortlessly while giving my lips a juicy, hydrated finish. It’s my new go-to lippie for everyday wear!” —Ruby McAuliffe, Associate Fashion Editor
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Shade: Velvet Teddy
“I always reach for this shade when I’m sure what lipstick I want to wear. It’s neutral in undertone but warmer and darker than my typical nudes, so it goes with most makeup looks. It amplifies natural or glam makeup and is easy to swipe on and wear.” —Shannon Bauer, Associate Editorial Director
“This was one of the first lipsticks I ever wore. My mom wore it in the ’90s, and I fished it out of her purse and tried it on using the overhead mirror in our car. The shade (to be obvious) has a very ’90s feel. It reminds me of those candid photos of Naomi Campbell and Kate Moss during the height of the Supermodel era. It’s a pretty neutral shade, so I think it works on all complexions—my mother was white and very fair, and I’m brown with olive tones.” —Tamim Alnuweiri, Senior Beauty Writer
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Shade: Habit
“My lips are quite dark, so finding ‘neutral’ lipstick shades is not an easy task. Habit is a great subtle brown shade for people like me—a brighter brown shade that isn’t murky on my skin. The liquid-to-powder formula is very satisfying and more hydrating than you think. The pigment is good, and it’s buildable.” —Tamim Alnuweiri, Senior Beauty Writer
InStyle
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Shade: Spice It Up
“My biggest lipstick gripe is when it feels like you’re wearing lipstick—i.e., The formula makes lips chapped, tight, and dry. I’m so impressed with the Lustreglass Sheer-Shine line’s silky smooth texture, similar to a nourishing lip gloss, except with way more staying power. (Goodbye, lipstick-ringed coffee mugs!). My lips are slightly dewy and healthier, making it the perfect pick for super chapped winter skin. Spice It Up is the winning shade in this collection because it’s a beautiful balance between a bold red hue and a more neutral brown. I can rock a red lipstick without the commitment of going full Morticia Addams.” —Irene Richardson, Writer
What to Keep in Mind
- Shades: According to the brand, MAC Cosmetics carries 217 lipstick shades and counting. Ruby Woo has been the best-selling lip product for the last five years.
- Finish: MAC lipsticks include satin, matte, and glossy finishes. “My favorite MAC lipstick formula is the satin finish because it’s super comfortable on the lips and gives them a natural luminosity while still having a decent amount of pigment,” says makeup artist Jasmine Adetunji.
Your Questions, Answered
What is so special about MAC lipsticks?
MAC lipsticks often perfect what others don’t: staying power, impressive shade range, and versatility. “Its innovative texture and color systems are versatile and intuitive, making them a foundational tool for achieving virtually any look,” says Metro. Besides that, MAC has a nostalgic pull that’s hard to dismiss.
“Many of us grew up seeing our mothers and older female figures wearing MAC lipsticks and wanting to use them, just like these beloved female figures,” says Adetunji. She adds, “Lipstick symbolizes a level of womanhood to many young girls, so owning MAC lipstick feels like you have grown up and can use the things your younger self always wanted to use.”
How do you apply MAC lipstick?
While Metro says the most compelling aspect of applying MAC lipstick is its limitless opportunities, she offers this advice for beginners. “You can apply lipstick first and then liner, or vice versa. Layer it on for intensity or blot it down to create a soft stain. Use a makeup brush for precision or apply directly from the bullet for ease,” says Metro.