This is especially true when it comes to their dizzying array of matte options, 11 of which may as well have cult status. Yes, there’s an overwhelming amount of colors to choose from, but they’ve mastered formulating shades that look singular at first glance, but actually flatter anyone who wears them. This is–dare I say– the magic of MAC lipsticks. MAC is a high-end brand with many signature lipstick shadesincluding purples Since purple is now popular, many competing cosmetic brands are making dupes. I’ll never forget the first time I discovered Heroine and decided that purple had always been my makeup version of the little black dress. This sultry smoked purple matte finish shade is just perfect for the autumn season. It is highly pigmented and goes perfectly with smokey eye makeup. Like the iconic Ruby Woo, shades like Sin, Velvet Teddy, and Smoked Purple are just as vibrant but not, well, red. Kinda Sexy is a smooth matte finish lipstick in the nude pink shade. Thankfully on the rare day when I actually want to play dress-up, there are plenty of other MAC matte lipsticks to choose from.
In fact, it’s a bit too fancy for my just-rolled-out-of-bed aesthetic. MAC Up The Amp This electric purple lipstick has a creamy texture, and while it is not as bright as what Rai wore, it works better on medium and dark skin tones. left to right: Wet n Wild Sugar Plum Fairy, Wet n Wild Cherry Bomb, Wet n Wild Black Orchid, Wet n Wild Vintage Vibe. Here are dupes for some of MACs more striking shades in this color range.
Eventually, with my Bad Gal fandom still intact, I realized that red lipstick actually doesn’t go with everything. Besides all of the outright purple lipsticks in MACs catalog, there are many plums, wines, berries, and other deep reds with heavy purple undertones. Rihanna declared her love for Ruby Woo in 2013 and like everyone else, I decided red lipstick would be my love too. Though I prefer the low-maintenance vibe (and price) of lip gloss from my local beauty supply, MAC lipstick remains a must-have.