Words by Harper’s Bazaar Staff

These must-have favorites stand the test of time

The best red lipstick shades aren’t just beautiful—they’re a makeup staple that somehow always feels fresh, no matter the decade.

Hardcore red lipstick fans can spot the difference between scarlet, brick red, and true red. They also know that these coveted shades are holy-grail favorites that deserve to be swiped on again and again, to expertly complement a subtle eye or luminous skin.

If you’re already a red lipstick fan or are looking to find a new tube to complete your signature makeup look, reviewing our curated list is exactly where you should start. Some of our favorite shades are so iconic, you’ve probably memorized a few of them by name: from Dior’s 999 to MAC’s Ruby Woo and NARS’s Dragon Girl. (The latter two are rumored to be Taylor Swift’s go-tos.)

Each of our picks look great on just about anyone, and they all have the added bonus of lasting all day without smearing or smudging. Although, isn’t half the fun of wearing one of the best red lipsticks leaving a little trace of it wherever you go?

BEST COOL-TONED RED

Chanel Luminous Intense Lip Colour

There are a dozen perfect red shades in Chanel’s arsenal, but Pirate is by far the most fun to say. It uses sappan wood to keep lips smooth and hydrated, with a satin finish that’s not overly shiny.

Customer review: “I have long been a fan of red lipsticks so when Chanel introduced this new formula and I saw the gorgeous array of reds, I just had to give some a try! Passion is truly a drop dead beautiful red and good for any time of the day. Pirate is a bit darker and for some might be more of a evening color. Coromandel is a warmer bright red and very wearable. Palpitante is a delicious creamy feeling red with a fuschia cast – quite flattering and ladylike! If you are looking for a high quality lipstick, this formula and color variety will not disappoint!” —Tropical Traveler

MAC Cosmetics Matte Lipstick in Ruby Woo

Arguably the most famous red lipstick shade, MAC’s semi-matte is well loved by celebrities like Tracee Ellis Ross. Its culty formula was even spun off into a version made just for Rihanna, aptly named Riri Woo.

Customer review: “Love the color. Mac products stay on longer and the lipstick is creamy and keeps lips moist longer!” —Cheryl

Dior Rouge Dior Lipstick in 999

Dior’s iconic 999 lip shade has had its fair share of celebrity fans over the years. It also helps that the lipstick looks beautiful on every skin tone, and happens to last up to 16 hours per wear.

Customer review: “I love everything about this lipstick. Wears wonderfully all day. Creamy, smooth, luxurious.” —MickellsMom

YSL Rouge Pur Couture Lipstick in 1966 Rouge Libre

Over 900 Sephora customer swear by this signature crimson shade from YSL. You’ll need only a few swipes of the satin finish lipstick to make a bold makeup statement that lasts up to six hours per wear.

Customer review: “Very pigmented and stays on all day. Doesn’t transfer to your teeth, which I have a problem with sometimes. I have the matte version too, but this one stays on longer and feels better to wear. Most pigmented lipstick I’ve had.” —clarrisse

Fenty Beauty Stunna Lip Paint Longwear Fluid Lip Color in Uncensored

Rihanna’s first red lipstick under her Fenty Beauty label is not only universally flattering, but also, once you swipe it on, the matte formula will last until you decide to wipe it off at the end of the night.

Customer review: “I love this! I only have to apply it once and it never budges! Wear it all day, eat, drink and never have to reapply. I always get compliments when I wear it. Color is beautiful, my favorite!” —ErwinK