5 Best... Dark Lipsticks!

There is something very seductive about a dark and witchy pout. Whether you’re searching for a more wearable berry hue or are prepared to take on a matte forest green, this list will give you some insight on my favourite vampy shades!

Punk Couture (MAC - Matte Lipstick)

One of my favourite dark lipsticks is without a doubt MAC’s Punk Couture. On top of a lovely formula (one akin to other Matte lipsticks by the brand), the purple itself has a very universally flattering tone to it.

The “lip liner” I often use with it is MAC’s Designer Purple eyeliner pencil (it’s safe to use on the lips). It’s sparkly, but it really adds a fun touch to the colour. If you want more of an overall matte finish, I would suggest using an invisible lip liner before application (my favourites are by Marc Jacobs or NYX), and touching up any mistakes with concealer if needed.

PROS

High pigment
Long-lasting

CONS

Not completely transfer proof

Price: $18.50 (USD) / $23.00 (CAD) / €19.50 (EUR) / £17.50 (GBP)

Kale (Amuse Bouche Lipstick - Bite Beauty)

Kale isn’t only for salads or chips, anymore! It can be equally useful on your lips!

Bite Beauty’s “clean” lipsticks still pack a punch with their colour payoff, and Kale is not exception.

The deep, forest green is a fantastic choice for those not afraid to try a more adventurous shade on their lips. Highly recommended!

PROS

Great pigmentation
Long-lasting

CONS

A bit sticky
More difficult to apply

Price: $26.00 (USD) / $30.00 (CAD)

*Only available at Sephora USA or Canada

Berry Pop (Clinique)

For those who aren’t quite ready to fully embrace the extreme dark lipstick trend, why not try a more deep berry-toned hue?

Clinique’s Berry Pop lipstick is an excellent choice as it is a slightly more “natural” dark shade (it’s supposed to emulate berries, like the name implies).

The formula is comfortable, and the glossy finish makes it more wearable everyday rather than a dark-hued matte.

PROS

Easy to apply
Non-sticky glossy finish

CONS

Not transfer proof
Not incredibly long lasting

Price: $25.00 (USD) / $29.00 (CAD) / €24.00 (EUR) / £17.00 (GBP)

Frenemy (Tarte - Tarteist Creamy Matte Lip Paint)

Tarte’s Creamy Matte Lip Paint is great for those who crave the longevity of a liquid lipstick, but dread its drying effects.

Frenemy is a bit difficult to apply, but once it’s on, it’s a lovely dark purple that can enchant any ensemble.

PROS

Non-drying (for a liquid lip)
Comfortable formula

CONS

Requires lip liner to apply evenly
Not as transfer proof as most liquid lipsticks

Price: $20.00 (USD) / $25.00 (CAD) / €17.00 (EUR) / £14.50 (GBP)

Bête Noire (Lipstick Queen)

Bête Noire has three separate formulations depending on how “pigmented” you enjoy your blackberry-hued pout. The one I am wearing in this photo is the version with the most pigment.

The lipstick has a high-amount of shine thanks to it’s oil and Vitamin E enriched-formula, but unfortunately this makes it a bit streaky upon application. With a bit of patience, it is a comfortable and moisturizing way to rock a glam witchy hue!

PROS