Fall 2025 is here, and with it comes a fresh lineup of lipstick shades that balance cozy season vibes with everyday wearability. No more overly bold hues that feel hard to pull off—this season’s most popular picks are versatile, flattering, and designed to complement everything from your go-to sweater to a night-out leather jacket. Whether you’re a matte lover, a gloss fan, or someone who sticks to creamy formulas, there’s a shade trending right now that’ll feel like it was made for you. Let’s break down the top 5 lipstick colors everyone’s reaching for, plus how to style them (and where to find budget-friendly options).
Warm Terracotta: The “Your Lips But Better” Upgrade
Terracotta is this season’s ultimate neutral—but make it cozy. Think a mix of soft brown, subtle orange, and a hint of red, like the color of baked clay on a fall afternoon. What makes it so popular? It flatters every skin tone: on fair skin, it adds a warm, sun-kissed glow; on medium skin, it amplifies natural undertones; on deep skin, it pops without clashing.
This shade works for every occasion, too. Pair a creamy terracotta lipstick with a beige sweater and jeans for a casual weekend look, or layer it with a clear gloss for a dewy finish at brunch. For evenings, opt for a matte terracotta—its rich texture pairs perfectly with a black turtleneck or a camel coat. Budget-friendly picks? Maybelline’s SuperStay Ink Crayon in “Lead the Way” ($10) is a dupe for high-end brands like Charlotte Tilbury, and it lasts through coffee runs and dinner.
Berry Mauve: The Soft Alternative to Bold Plum
If you love the idea of a berry shade but shy away from deep purples, berry mauve is your match. It’s a muted mix of raspberry and dusty pink, with just enough depth to feel seasonal without being too heavy. This shade is perfect for transitioning from day to night: wear it to the office with a blazer, then keep it on for a date night—no touch-ups needed (if you pick a long-wearing formula).
The key to nailing berry mauve? Choose a formula that’s not too drying. Look for creamy or satin finishes—they glide on smoothly and keep lips from feeling chapped (a must as the air gets colder). Try NYX’s Slide On Lip Pencil in “Mauve It Out” ($9) for easy application, or splurge a little on Fenty Beauty’s Stunna Lip Paint in “Uncensored Mauve” ($22) for a transfer-proof finish that lasts all day.
Chestnut Brown: The Cozy, Cool-Girl Shade
Brown lipstick is back—but this season’s version is softer than the deep chocolate hues of years past. Chestnut brown is a warm, medium brown with a touch of red, like the color of roasted chestnuts (hence the name). It’s edgy enough to feel on-trend but still approachable—great for anyone who wants to step up their lipstick game without going too far.
Style chestnut brown with fall’s biggest fashion trends: pair it with a chunky knit sweater and ankle boots for a laid-back vibe, or with a faux leather skirt and tights for a more polished look. It also works with both warm and cool makeup—keep your eyes simple with neutral eyeshadow, or add a winged liner for a subtle pop. Drugstore find: L’Oréal’s Infallible Pro-Last Lipstick in “Brown Enchantress” ($12) has a creamy texture that doesn’t feather, even after hours of wear.
Soft Coral Red: The Bright Pick That’s Not Too Loud
Red lipstick never goes out of style, but this season’s twist is soft coral red. It’s a brighter alternative to classic red, with a hint of peach that makes it feel fresh and fun. This shade is perfect for anyone who wants to add a pop of color to their fall wardrobe without clashing with earthy tones like olive green or mustard.
Soft coral red looks amazing with a glossy finish—think dewy, juicy lips that feel youthful. Wear it with a white t-shirt and a denim jacket for a casual day out, or with a red blazer for a bold (but not overwhelming) office look. Pro tip: If you have fair skin, go for a coral red with more peach; if you have deep skin, opt for one with more red—this ensures the shade complements your undertones. Try Revlon’s Super Lustrous Lipstick in “Coral Crush” ($8) for a budget-friendly option that’s been flying off shelves.
Nude Rose: The “No-Makeup Makeup” Essential
Nude rose is this season’s answer for anyone who loves a low-key look. It’s a pale pink with a hint of brown, like the color of your lips when you’re blushing. This shade is perfect for busy mornings—swipe it on, and you’ll look put-together without spending time on a full makeup routine. It also pairs well with bold eye makeup: if you’re wearing a smoky eye, nude rose keeps the focus on your eyes without competing.
The best part? Nude rose works with every outfit. It looks great with a gray sweatshirt and leggings, a floral dress, or even a formal gown. For a long-lasting option, try Maybelline’s Fit Me Lipstick in “Nude Whisper” ($8)—it’s creamy, lightweight, and doesn’t fade after eating. If you prefer gloss, Glossier’s Lip Gloss in “Birthday” ($18) is a fan favorite, with a subtle nude rose tint that adds shine without being sticky.
Final Tip: Make Your Lipstick Last All Day
With colder weather comes chapped lips, so prepping your lips before applying lipstick is key. Exfoliate once a week with a sugar scrub (you can make your own with sugar and coconut oil!) to slough off dead skin, then apply a lip balm at night. In the morning, blot the balm off before putting on lipstick—this ensures the color goes on smoothly and lasts longer.
This season’s lipstick trends are all about feeling confident and comfortable. No need to experiment with shades that don’t feel like you—stick to these versatile picks, and you’ll be on-trend without trying too hard. Head to your local drugstore or favorite beauty retailer (Ulta, Sephora, or even Amazon) to grab these shades—your fall wardrobe will thank you.