Think gray hues are just for your favorite smoky-eye palette? No way. In fact, the most unexpected trend in lip color right now is just that: greige. You may have already noticed these mixes of gray and beige hitting store shelves now, and while the hue can seem intimidating, after a few swatches we're sold on the idea. This color is unabashedly bold, yet neutral — and totally dreamy.
“It’s on-trend with the heavy resurgence of '90s style,” says Lijha Stewart, director of artistry and education for Make Up For Ever. “We’re seeing the same taupes, grays, and browns of yesteryear on lips today — and they’re cooler than ever.”
The only problem here? It can be a pain in the ass to pull off. Swipe it on with a smoky eye and you’ll look garish. Or, apply the wrong shade and you’ll look ghostly. Basically, do anything other than wear it like a boss (ahead, more on how) and you could — gasp — end up looking a little of both.
Fret not, just click through to find your pewter perfection...
Pale To Fair Skin
You want: A mauve-gray hue with cool undertones, says Stewart. If it sounds like a juxtaposition, that’s because it is. “Two different tones create a harmonious color palette that balance and brighten your complexion.” Try: This lipstick is a deep, muted, taupe-brown with a creamy finish.
Maybelline Color Sensational Lip Color Loaded Bolds in Grey Over It, $7.49, available at Ulta.
Medium And Olive
You want: A hint of purple in your greige — with warm undertones. “Slate grey with that plum color will complement your skin tone, as opposed to washing you out,” Stewart says. Try: This cool, creamy shade with tinges of lilac.
Smashbox Be Legendary Lipstick in Grunge, $21, available at Sephora.
Dark To Deep Skin
You want: A chocolate shade with less white pigment and more charcoal. “Pastels or light grays can make deeper complexions look dull or lackluster,” Stewart says, so opt for steely undertones. Try: A darker, matte lipstick with cool undertones, like this option from ColourPop.
Colourpop Ultra Matte Lip in Kapow, $6, available at colourpop.com.
Like this post? There's more. Get tons of beauty tips, tutorials, and news on the Refinery29 Beauty Facebook page. Like us on Facebook — we'll see you there!
Like what you see? How about some more R29 goodness, right here?
We Want This Lip Scrub That Tastes Like Cupcakes