Every part of my makeup routine — from my primer to foundation — is locked down, except for my boredom with my lip choice. Usually, the '90s makeup look I wear is the classic dark brown liner and gloss trend, but I've been itching to wear a little more color on my lips. I think it has everything to do with my infatuation with leopard print and wanting to lean into my own version of the mob wife trend that managed to make some people cringe.
Even if I don't spend the rest of the year decked in animal print, I want to wear bold shades and I know just who to turn to — MAC Cosmetics! They have everything from creamy satin to matte lipsticks that'll make your makeup and outfit look amazing. But, I'd rather show you what I mean, so let's jump into these 7 incredible shades!
Ulta
Locked Kiss Ink (Teaser)
This toasted warm nude has everyone's name written all over it because it's literally perfect for fall? Why? Well, it's more of a peachy color that won't make you look washed out if you use a contrasting brown lip liner. How dark you want to go is up to you, but gorgeous ombré effect will make others wonder how you achieve the perfect pout.
Mac Cosmetics
Frost Lipstick ("O")
No, I haven't lost my mind because one of the MAC lipsticks I'm thinking about buying is frosted. It's a purplish red that has golden pearl flecks that literally reminds of me a shiny copper penny. I'm sure I'm not completely deviating from my signature '90s lip look, but I'll be adding this in the center of lips instead of a nude matte lipstick! Once it's topped off with gloss, I'm sure it's going to mimic a beautiful fall sunset.
Nordstrom
Locked Kiss 24-Hour Lipstick (Ruby True)
Okay, I'm giving in because I know someone is looking for red lipstick that won't budge. Oh, who am I kidding? I'm the someone who can't stay away from this sexy shade. I don't care what season it is, it goes with everything you can think of. Plain t-shirt and jeans combo? Sure! Cute midi sweater dress and boots? Of course! That one date night outfit you've been saving for a special occasion? You bet!
Macy's
Retro Matte Liquid Lipcolour (Carnivorous)
The name of this shade is fitting because it is spooky spooky season. I don't suggest you pretend like you're a hungry beast waiting for its next victim, but you could certainly pull this off when you're in a spicy mood. It'll take you from the boardroom to the bedroom (if you want) which will no doubt make someone say, "Wow, I love it here."
P.S. This theory may or may not have already been tested, but you didn't hear that from me!
Target
Lustreglass Lipstick (Spice It Up)
I'm a firm believer that not all fall looks require bold MAC lipsticks. Sometimes you need a touch of color that's soft and airy like this Lustreglass shade. Unlike matte or creamy formulas, this will keep your lips moisturized once you apply it. The color is also buildable so you can apply as much as you want, but I think a little goes a long way.
Nordstrom
MACximal Sleek Satin Lipstick (Film Noir)
Get away from this red completely and go for this deep cool brown shade if you dare. IMO, you can even save this for your scary Halloween costumesbecause it's the literal definition of BOLD. While I usually don't deeper brown lipsticks, I will use them as a lip liner because I'm not always a fan of using pencils, so this could be a neat trick you use in your routine!
Nordstrom
MACximal Sleek Satin Lipstick (Guessing Game)
Skip the bright red lipstick in favor of something deeper like this gorgeous shade. This is one of my go-to colors whenever I get tired of wearing a nude lipstick look because it's effortlessly sultry. Not only that, but it looks good on all skin tones which is important to me as a brown skinned woman!
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Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.
You'd think someone with acne-prone skin wouldn't buy viral beauty finds without doing thorough research, but I'm not above trying to recreate all the latest makeup trends at home. All this did was remind me that everything isn't for everyone — and that's okay! Well...it's not okay I fee like I wasted money, but at least I know what to stay away from. And now I'm here to help you figure out what to avoid as well!
Even though this products didn't work for me, that doesn't mean you can't or shouldn't use them. These are just my least faves of the year — take 'em or leave 'em!
Here are all the overrated beauty finds I wish I wouldn't have bought
Amazon
1. MILK Hydro Grip Primer
I should've known better than to buy this again, but I wanted to see if my skin would react better to it. The first time I tried to use this, I broke out along my jaws in tiny, red bumps. They were itchy and eventually turned into dark spots that took me over a year to get rid of.
Instead of letting that be the red flag that kept me away from this beauty find, I decided to use it in place of my trusted e.l.f. Cosmetics Power Grip Primer I've been relying on. Two things happened:
- It created a beautiful base for my makeup.
- I didn't break out, but my faced still felt itchy.
I even switched my makeup brushes and checked to make sure other makeup products weren't expired. The culprit continued to be this primer so it's made it to my overrated list.
Amazon
2. KORA Organics Kakadu Plum Vitamin C Serum
I was initially sent this to test, but I decided to buy it myself to see if I truly like it. While it was easy to add to my skincare routine lineup, I realized I actually didn't need to spend $70+ for an effective Vitamin C serum. The only difference between this serum and the one I truly love are their colors and textures.
This one has a slightly yellowish-orange tint to it while being a little thicker compared to the Timeless Skin Care Vitamin C serum I use. The latter is thinner and 100% transparent, plus the odor is slightly stronger. However, both of them aid in smoother skin, smaller pores, and a healthy glow.
I honestly wouldn't buy this one again just because I can get the same benefits for a lesser price.
Amazon
3.NYX Cosmetics Fat Oil Lip Drip
This is a controversial take, but I honestly didn't love the NYX Fat Oil Lip Drip. Although I love the color payoff, it was too sticky for my liking. I saw reviews that mentioned this, but I've purchased lip glosses other people didn't love that worked for me in the past. However, the reviews are telling the truth: the stickiness takes away from what could've been a great formula.
I'll just stick to my Tower 28 Lip Softie Hydrating Lip Treatment in Ube Vanilla!
Amazon
4. L'Oréal Voluminous Panorama Washable Mascara
I know people love this beauty find because it is great. I just didn't think the hype was enough to convince me to buy it again because my essence Lash Princess False Lash Effect Mascara gets the job done for $5. I will say I love the washable feature of L'Oréal's version, but it's still not enough to make me willingly spend over $10 for it.
As great of a product as this is, it's overrated to me because of the price tag.
Sephora
5. Haus Labs Triclone Skin Tech Medium Coverage Foundation
Sigh...it's so hard for me to admit this, but this Haus Labs foundation has become my most overrated beauty find of 2024. It's not that it doesn't work for a few hours, but my skin prefers tinted moisturizers more than anything. I talked about it briefly on TikTok, but skin tints feel like you're not wearing anything on your face.
I'm always really oily after wearing this foundation for a few hours, but I can get extended wear out of the Danessa Myricks Yummy Skin Tint I've been wearing. I like to think it's because it has vegan collagen, ceramides, and cactus extract in it whereas this foundation has ingredients like fermented arnica in it.
Both do a great job of calming inflammation, but something about this foundation makes my skin think it's incredibly dry.
Visit our Amazon Storefront for a list of beauty products we do love!
Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.
If you're thinking about trying out latte makeup looks this fall, you're going to need the best long-last matte lipsticks you can coat your lips with. Think of your genetic pout as a blank canvas that can create a soft-glam or high-fashion moment to match the cute dresses you just bought.
Well, pucker up because we have matte lipsticks for everyone, from reds with blue bases to soft neutrals with brown undertones! Here are 11 matte lipsticks to add to your makeup bag ASAP!
The Best Matte Lipsticks For Fall
Target
The Lip Bar Vegan Matte Liquid Lipstick
The Lip Bar's 'Rebel' Vegan Matte Liquid Lipstick is going to give you the sultry pout you've been dreaming of. It almost looks brown in the tube, but you'll see that it's actually more of a deep burgundy shade.
The fun thing about this formula is that it applies like lipgloss, but dries down to a matte texture that feels oh-so-good. With just one swipe, your lips will be rewarded with an intense color pay-off that'll have people asking you where you found such a gorgeous shade.
Sephora
Huda Beauty Power Bullet Matte Lipstick
Liquid formulas aren't for everyone because they can get out of hand if you forget about their initial glossy application. A good alternative to that is Huda Beauty's Power Bullet Matte Lipstick with it's cruelty-free ingredients! It does have a creamy texture, but it only adds to the smoothness you'll feel when wearing it.
Sephora
Tom Ford Lip Color Matte Lipstick
Everyone should at least have one tube of sexy red lipstick in their makeup bag because it's going to brighten your face while making you look like you're on top of business for the day. Since you have more pressing things to worry about than finding the perfect shade, Tom Ford's 'Ruby Rush' is the vibrant true red you need!
Formulated without parabens and sulfates, the soothing Vitamins E & C will provide all the comfort your lips need.
Target
Maybelline Superstay Matte Ink Lipstick
Want to achieve a long-wearing matte look on a budget? Head to your local CVS or Target to pick up one of Maybelline's Superstay Ink Lipsticks! The 'Exhilarator' shade is slightly darker than Tom Ford's 'Ruby Rush,' but that may make you feel more comfortable. We've found that darker reds tend to be a little more forgiving if you don't want to wear lipliner.
Despite the affordable price, Maybelline's lipstick provides the same rich intensity as luxury brands and offers over 10 hours of wear. You also won't see as much transfer when drinking or planting a kiss on someone special.
Amazon
Revlon Colorstay Suede Ink
If you ever see the word 'ink' in a matte lipstick's name, trust that you're going to be wearing something that barely budges. While you won't be able to wear this past your work shift without reapplying it before happy hour, you'll get crisp color that'll make everyone stop and stare at you in admiration.
You're free to get any shade you want for less than $10, but 'Lip Bloom' is speaking to the leopard print outfits we have planned.
Westman Atelier
Westman Atelier Lip Suede Matte Lipstick
This may surprise you, but this 'Lou Lou' shade is still considered a red lipstick. It's as bold as it's comfortable to wear, thanks to its suede texture. You won't experience any icky feathering that occurs when you wear some matte lipsticks nor will you have to worry about reapplying multiple coats throughout the day.
Ulta
WYN BEAUTY Word of Mouth Max Comfort Matte Lipstick
WYN Beauty may have created the prettiest berry matte lipstick of the year, and the fact it's universal makes us want to personally thank Serena Williams for the inclusivity. Since we can't do that yet, we're here to tell you why you should get this if you're afraid of wearing matte lipsticks that contrast with your skin's undertone.
Not only is Word of Mouth Max Comfort a vegan product, it also boasts up to 24 hours of hydration. Based on the 4.6 rating on Ulta, we think other customers can vouch for it!
Ulta
Juvia's Place Nude Velvety Matte Lipstick
Instead of wearing so much color on your lips this fall, you can choose a neutral matte lipstick to pair with your favorite lipgloss for the ultimate '90s "It" Girl look! This 'Toffee' shade is a safe bet because it offers a hint of color that won't overpower your makeup. Plus, it has hyaluronic acid in it!
Makeup Forever
Makeup Forever Longwearing Matte Lipstick
"Everything's coming up roses" with Makeup Forever's Longwearing 'Memorable Spice' Matte Lipstick. It's another neutral that works well with a brown lipliner and gloss, but you can always skip the shiny finish if you want! Delivering high-performance color and a weightless feel, you'll be glad you decided to give it a chance.
P.S. The sleek design makes it easy to fit in the smallest of Target bags!
NYX Cosmetics
Nyx Cosmetics Lip Lingerie XXL Matte Liquid Lipstick
It's hard not be influenced by TikTok trends, but we're not pretending that we're above them! We've come across some of our best makeup buys because of other people's thorough reviews which is why NYX Cosmetic's Lip Lingerie XXL Matte Liquid Lipstick made our list!
'Dusky Muted Rose' is a "full-bodied matte lipstick" that's long-wearing and vegan; two things we can't get enough of. Honestly, no one wants to wear something that disrupts their hormones!
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Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.
Studio McGee has spent the last decade inspiring us with a blend of accessible and elevated designs, creating beautiful and totally livable spaces. In her 2025 Home Decor Trends report, Shea McGee emphasizes that home decor trends evolve gradually over time, and I couldn’t agree more. Unlike the fast-paced world of fashion, where trends shift every season, these design moves develop organically over time, and that's good for your wallet and taking your time to create a space you love. Get inspired to refresh your home in 2025 with a few new accents, from embellishments like fringe to maybe a little western or seaside art.
Here are Studio McGee's 2025 Home Decor Trend Predictions, with a few surprises!
Photo: Shade Degges | Design: Studio Mountain
Romantic Silhouettes
Take Romantic Silhouettes, for example. This is a trend we've seen steadily gain traction over the past few years. Think curvy furniture, delicate floral prints, and soft blush hues — when curated thoughtfully, these elements can become timeless staples in your home.
Photo: Michael P.H. Clifford | Design: A1000XBetter
Western Cowboy
This is a design trend that totally surprised me, but I'm so happy to see it in the mix. Elements like leather furniture, rustic accessories, equestrian art, even wood walls, shown in this office designed by A1000XBetter, are making an impact in 2025 and beyond. But Shea notes that you can take this trend literally or just be inspired by the look. You can also mix it with other styles to personalize it for you. Add romantic pillows or ruffled tablecloths like McGee & Co. x Loeffler Randall Gardenia Ruffle Border Tablecloth – things you love that make it yours vs. based solely on one trend.
Gavin Carter| Design: House of Rolison
Saturated Colors
Shea predicts that rich hues like deep browns, oxblood red, and earthy greens will continue to dominate home decor colors going into 2025. House of Rolison's bathroom brown is an excellent example of this beautiful trend.
courtesy of Stewart-Schafer
Pattern Drenching
Embracing a single pattern and drenching an entire room in it — from walls to pillows, headboards, and curtains — is a surprise trend for 2025. This maximalist approach, which has been quietly gaining traction, draws inspiration from Arts and Crafts designers like William Morris and has been in and out of vogue since the Victorian era.
McGee & Co.
Embellishments
This is a trend you can easily DIY to add an extra layer of charm to your decor. Think playful details like fringe accents —beautifully shown in McGee & Co.'s Philippa Settee — along with tassels, pleats, ruffles, and rope. It’s all about embracing texture and whimsy, so have fun with it!
McGee & Co.
Seaside Inspiration
Coastal decor has long been an influence in design and you can be inspired by it in many forms, from shell accents to beach-inspired artwork like McGee & Co.'s Distant Coastline art to textured seagrass baskets and jute rugs. Even the soothing hues of the sea — think soft blues, sandy neutrals, and gentle greens — can inspire your 2025 spaces.
Check out the full list of Studio McGee 2025 Design Trends!
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Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.
If there’s any holiday where you’re encouraged to take shots, it’s New Year’s Eve. But, that doesn’t mean you should limit your NYE party beverages to champagne. These sparkly, glittery and all-around enticing shots are sure to please and won’t induce any bad-idea hangovers from too manytequila drinks. You can let your resolution ideas start when the calendar reads 2025. Meanwhile, cheers to enjoying these shots you’ll actually want to make (and take) this New Year’s Eve.
The 14 Best New Year's Eve Shots To Throw Back For 2025!
Brit + Co
Apple Cider Shooter
That caramel vodka you bought on a whim once can finally be put to good use with this spiked apple cider shooter. Whip it up as a shot or a large punch that will last all night long. (via Brit + Co)
Brit + Co
Root Beer Float Shooter
This soda shop classic gets an adult upgrade with ROOT, a traditional alcoholic Native American tea. And tea is healthy, right? ;) (via Brit + Co)
Brit + Co
Rainbow Shots
Meet your new party trick! All five of these shots come out of one shaker. Prepare to amaze your guests with your bartending skills this NYE. (via Brit + Co)
Sprinkle Bakes
Champagne Chantilly Shooters
Be sure to add these cake-inspired shooters to your after-holiday to-do list to start 2016 with a little bit of deliciousness. (via Sprinkle Bakes)
Feast + West
Champagne Jell-O Shots
Turn your champagne into a shot! If you’re hosting a large party, these are a way more affordable option than a case of champagne. (via Feast + West)
Dine and Dish
Blackberry Gin Shooters
This shooter is *almost* too pretty to drink. Plus, we can all pretend that the blackberries are doing you some good. (via Dine and Dish)
A Year of Cocktails
Butternut Rum Lifesaver
A shot that tastes like candy is a sweet way to start your year off right. (via A Year of Cocktails)
Holly's Cheat Day
Tipsy Spritzer Shots
Not every shot needs to be super strong. If you’re looking for something you can enjoy throughout the night, this sweet, bubbly and tart “spritzer” shot is low in alcohol content and big on flavor. (via Holly’s Cheat Day)
Bubbly Nation Creations
Sparkling Jello Jigglers
Swap out champagne for the grape juice in this recipe to make a fancy, adult version of a JELL-O jiggler. Sprinkles and edible gold stars required. (via Bubbly Nation Creations)
Broma Bakery
Champagne Jello Shots
Awww, Jello Shots are all grown up in this festive recipe. They have a nice flavor that won’t leave you wincing afterwards. (via Broma Bakery)
The First Year
White Chocolate Champagne Cheesecake Shooters
This shot is delicious enough to be dessert. Top yours with edible glitter sprinkles to get even more festive. (via The First Year)
Cookin' Canuck
Cranberry Kamikaze Shots
NYE calls for a fancier drink than a go-to beer or wine. Ring in the new year with cranberry kamikaze shots that look pretty and taste delicious (via Cookin' Canuck)
Tablespoon
Banana Split Shooters
This shot requires five ingredients that'll send your taste buds soaring. I mean, what could be better than taking a shot of something that tastes like dessert? (via Tablespoon)
Something Swanky
Sparkling Cider Jello Shots (Non-Alcoholic)
If you want to be extra careful not to induce a hangover when you wake up in 2024, your best bet are these sparkling cider jello shots. They're made with unflavored gelatin, distilled water, cider and your choice of berries, cherries, or gummies! (via Something Swanky)
Looking for more NYE recipe or drink ideas? Check out Brit + Co on Pinterest and check out our New Year's Eve dinner ideas for more inspiration.This post has been updated.