Hailey Bieber has persuaded me to start wearing brown lipstick once more—here are the shades I would genuinely suggest.

      While my work revolves around beauty, it’s clear that brown has dominated fashion this past year, seen in everything from chocolate-colored tailoring to suede accessories. Recently, the beauty industry has embraced this trend with a growing interest in shades like espresso, mocha, and cocoa. A notable illustration of this was Rhode’s latest summer collection centered around brown.

      I've noticed a change in my own makeup collection as well. I've been gravitating toward brown lip liners more than I used to, largely inspired by women who have made these shades look effortlessly chic. For instance, Hailey Bieber’s softly defined brown-lined lips and makeup artist Nina Park's talent for making brown lipstick appear trendy rather than vintage on her celebrity clients, such as Zoë Kravitz and Mia Goth, serve as great examples. Their looks demonstrate that brown can be light, glossy, softly blurred, and understated—exactly how I prefer it.

      For me, this is what makes it appealing. In my view, the best brown lipsticks have the special quality of instantly making your makeup look more refined without appearing overly polished. From subtle nude browns to rich chocolate tones, here are the brown lipstick shades I’m currently drawn to.

      **The Best Brown Lipsticks:**

      **Best Overall Brown Lipstick:** Rhode Peptide Lip Shape in Balance

      **Best Matte Brown Lipstick:** KJHBrand Precision Sculpture Stylo in Etch

      **Best Brown Lip Gloss:** Vieve Lip Dew in Socialite

      **Best Sheer Brown Lipstick:** Chanel Rouge Coco Baume in Honey Bliss

      **Best Affordable Brown Lipstick:** Kiko One Magic Touch Lip Stylo in 011.

      **Rhode Peptide Lip Shape in Balance**

      **Best Overall**

      **Finish:** Creamy satin

      I've been consistently reaching for Rhode’s Peptide Lip Shape (in various hues) since discovering it, but Balance (a caramel brown) has become a standout favorite. Although it’s technically a lip liner, the creamy, softly sculpting formula makes it suitable for wearing all over the lips. Balance strikes a perfect balance—not too warm or too grey—providing definition without looking overly lined. I especially enjoy it topped with a clear lip gloss.

      **Pros:** Very creamy and easy to blend, gives a softly contoured, diffused effect, can be used as both a liner and a lipstick.

      **Cons:** Not the most long-lasting formula, frequently sold out.

      **2. MAC Cosmetics Velvet Teddy**

      **Best Iconic Shade**

      **Finish:** Matte

      MAC's Velvet Teddy has remained a classic since its debut in 2004, and it continues to be one of the top-selling brown lipstick shades. The silky matte finish is comfortable, and the deep, cool-toned beige complements all skin tones. "I recently found an ancient, almost expired MAC Velvet Teddy lipstick from the original formula, and I was instantly reminded of why I adored it," shares Imani-Nia Francis-Tsolaki, junior fashion editor at Who What Wear UK. "When paired with my go-to Glossier lip liner and Saie lip gloss, it turns into the perfect combo."

      **Pros:** Neutral-toned brown flatters everyone, silky matte finish is comfortable.

      **Cons:** Matte texture may not appeal to all.

      **3. Refy Tinted Lip Gloss in Sepia**

      **Best Lip Gloss**

      **Finish:** Gloss

      With eczema and dry skin, I’ve always preferred dewy over matte looks, which extends to my lip choices, explains Brittany Davy, editorial writer for Who What Wear UK. "Because of this, I’ve never liked traditional lipsticks, which often settle into fine lines and make my lips seem cracked. Fortunately, I came across the perfect brown lip gloss a few years ago—Refy’s tinted lip gloss. It can be built up for a high-shine finish or worn sheered out for a more natural look like a lipstick. This hydrating formula comes in four brown shades. My top picks are Suede (a medium-deep warm brown that works as a perfect nude for my deeper skin tone) and Sepia (a cool-toned chestnut brown I use for more dramatic lip looks). In the picture, I'm wearing Suede alone, earning this product high points for being one of the few brands that offer deeper brown shades without needing a lip liner. Refy’s gloss accommodates both 'no makeup' makeup and full glam days. Just be cautious with the cap because it can leak if not handled properly."

      **4. KJHBrand Precision Sculpture Stylo in Etch**

      **Best Matte Lipstick**

      **Finish:** Soft matte

      Although I’m not usually a fan of matte lipsticks, I make an exception for Katie Jane Hughes’ products. Etch is a gorgeous cool brown that feels very wearable and not intimidating at all. I love how I can sheer it out with my fingertip or build it