5 Best Classic French Red Lipsticks
If I instantly want to feel stylish and confident, I reach for my favorite red lipstick. There's something so incredibly classic and effortlessly chic about this fashion staple. I mean, there's a reason this beauty trend has never gone out of style. Below are all my tried and true favorites that I always keep on hand.
FASHION & BEAUTY
7/7/20252 min read
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Beauty Classic Essential
A gorgeous red lipstick makes such a great statement. It was even used as a form of protest during World War II! So it's had a long history of being a bold statement for women. But now in this modern day and age, this beauty essential can be the little pick-me-up that you need for everything from a first date to running errands with your kids.
Whenever I feel like I need to be confident and powerful, this is the look I go for. Subtle make-up, think barely there blush and very subtle smokey grey eye shadow. I think the time tested advice of only highlighting one feature at a time with make-up definitely holds true. So with all of this in mind, below are some of my favorite red lipsticks and shades.
My 5 Favorite Red Lipsticks
💄 Option 1: Revlon Super Lustrous Lipstick in “Love that Red” (Budget Friendly Classic)
Creamy finish, rich pigment, long-wearing
“This is the red you picture on a woman walking through the Marais in ballet flats and sunglasses.”
$6
💄 Option 2: MAC Macximal Silky Matte in "Ruby Woo" (The Tried and True)
A classic color from a classic beauty brand
“This is an iconic red that's perfect for envisioning yourself walking down the Champs Elysee"
$25
💄 Option 3: Dior Christian Rouge Couture Lipstick in "999" (The Dream Lipstick)
Sheer, juicy finish; ultra-luxurious feel
“A French beauty brand that has one of the most recognized red lipsticks out there.”
$39 (I will say I don't personally own this one but I definitely dream about!)
💄 Option 4: NARS Lipstick in “Dragon Girl” (The Cool Girl Staple)
Matte but glide-on formula in a pencil
“Low effort, high impact — this one's lived in every French model’s handbag at some point.”
$32
💄 Option 5: Maybelline Super Stay Matte Ink Liquid Lipstick in "Pioneer" (Best Budget Option)
Long lasting bold color
“Perfect for the woman who has more to do than constantly reapply lipstick, aka me.”
$5.34
French beauty is never about perfection — it’s about presence. A swipe of red lipstick can make you feel like your most put-together self, even if you’re wearing yesterday’s jeans. If you’ve been looking for that one signature color, I hope one of these becomes your new go-to.