Here’s what lipstick you should be wearing, based on your zodiac sign
Illustration TwylaMae
Words by Kristina Ioannou
Find your astrological match.
With millions of people using thousand-year-old crystals, the moon’s beguiling cycles, manifestation rituals and zodiac-everything to guide their lives, you’d be forgiven for wondering whether the world is having some kind of cosmic breakdown.
Indeed, it’s the age of Spencer Pratt. Should I sign that lease? Will a second date lead to love? Should I take the job — all questions you might turn to the stars (or a Magic 8 ball) for the answers to. Admittedly, submitting yourself to the woo-woo powers at large can be kind of interesting, especially when it comes to your beauty routine and, more specifically, lipstick choices.
Sure, you could simply pick a lip colour that flatters your skin tone, but using the mystical powers of the zodiac to find your lipstick soul mate is much more fun.
Read through to find your astrological match.
Aries (March 21 – April 19)
Since Aries is a leader of the pack in the zodiac – and the ‘ram’ is full of fierce, bold energy – it makes sense to don a vivacious red, honouring Mars’ rule over the sign. We recommend the rich, creamy look of Marc Jacobs’ Beauty Le Marc Lip Creme Lipstick in Oh Miley 200, a don’t-eff-with-me hue that will offer instant, indulgent colour while providing 10 hours of wear. Layer with a matte red lip liner to make your power pout stand out even more.
Taurus (April 20 – May 20)
At its cosmic heart, Taurus is an earth sign boasting a celestial spirit animal who enjoys relaxing in serene environments surrounded by soothing sounds and aromas. It’s therefore written in the stars that Taureans should gravitate towards a neutral-but-better earthy hue. Think: dusty roses or velvety browns that go hand-in-hand with Taurus’ laid-back and often sensual personality. Nude by Nature Moisture Shine Lipstick in 03 Dusty Rose, we’re looking at you. Expect an effortless sweep of colour and a luminous shine finish.
Gemini (May 21 – June 20)
Because of the dual nature of Gemini — appropriately symbolised by the celestial twins — it makes sense to dabble with not one, but two lipstick shades. Laneige Two Tone Lipstick in No.1 Magenta Muse reflects the versatile and spontaneous nature of the Gem tribe. Both light and dark shades can be worn on their own or blended together for a luscious lip look, so you get the best of both worlds. Tip: apply the lighter hue to the centre of the lips to fake a larger lip.
Cancer (June 21 – July 22)
Represented by the crab, this cardinal oceanic sign can easily float between the sea and the shore, comfortable in both material and emotional realms. Highly intuitive, with a calm and romantic personality, it’s a no-brainer to pair Cancers with a deeper-than-nude hue that’s wearable for both day and night. Tom Ford Lip Color in Bad Lieutenant is all of this and more, boasting a satin finish that can easily be paired with a slight shimmer on the eyes for date night. Add a swipe of moisturising balm before you apply for a hydrating effect.
Leo (July 23 – August 22)
Nothing screams Leo more than a bold, can’t-look-away lipstick shade, reminiscent of the star of the zodiac’s out-there personality. One of the three fire signs, Leos love nothing more than relishing in being the centre of attention, so a vivid hot pink — like the smooth consistency of Kat Von D’s Studded Creme Lipstick in Backstage Bambi — is a wise choice. No need to reapply – this bad boy lasts and lasts.
Virgo (August 23 – September 22)
The practical perfectionists of the zodiac, Virgos are usually bestowed with classic nude lips. Au contraire, we’re encouraging this sensible earth sign to step out of that conservative palette and turn some heads with juicy cranberry shades for a sophisticated yet deeply enchanting effect. Luk Beautifood Lip Nourish Lipstick in Cranberry Citrus definitely fits the bill, offering up a pigmented yet sheer finish (for Virgo commitment-phobes) that feeds and nourishes lips after application for a kissable effect.
Libra (September 23 – October 21)
Libras are often fixated on creating equilibrium, balance and harmony in all areas of life. By and large, they get along with everyone, so teaming this sign (interestingly the only inanimate object in the zodiac) with a flattering, easy-going nude pink lippie is a winner. Karen Murrell Lipstick in Blushing Rose offers an everyday colour that can be worn with a graceful glow, mirroring the subdued and warm nature of Librans. Go for an even deeper shade come evening.
Scorpio (October 22 – November 21)
Though often mistaken for a fire sign, Scorpio is actually a water sign, emanating mysterious, magnetic vibes. Beauty stars will align when Scorpios wear a crimson, plum-maroon or oxblood lipstick shade, paying homage to an often mesmerising and seductive personality. Estee Lauder Pure Color Envy Sculpting Lipstick in Insolent Plum is a no-brainer for this eighth sign of the zodiac.
Sagittarius (November 22 – December 21)
The last fire sign in the zodiac, Sagis (as they are so fondly called) love to launch themselves into various intellectual, spiritual and adventurous pursuits. In light of this, Sagittarians should skip the neutrals and opt for a rainbow palette, experimenting with colour in playful ways. The velvety-matte finish of a hotter-than-hot coral shade such as Too Faced Peach Kiss Moisture Matte Long Wear Lipstick in Breakfast Club is bound to add some drama while brightening up the features.
Capricorn (December 22 – January 19)
As an earth sign represented by the sea goat – a mythological creature with the tail of a fish and body of a goat (ha!) – Capricorns are skilled at being equal parts otherworldy and elegant. As such, we suggest reaching for a velvety brown, mauve or mocha, offering up plenty of wit and charm for this pragmatic sign. Opt for jane iredale Triple Luxe Long Lasting Naturally Moist Lipstick in Sharon — which delivers a wash of latte to the lips and a decidedly moisturising, richly-pigmented finish.
Aquarius (January 19 – February 18)
Rebels at heart, Aquarians aren’t afraid to push the boundaries, especially when it comes to beauty. Metallic finishes and zany colours are ideal for this revolutionary sign, as it’s all about going against the grain where possible. Take it up a notch with a daring and dazzling blue like MAC Frost Lipstick in Designer Blue.
Pisces (February 18 – March 20)
Pisces is known as the dreamiest sign in the zodiac, and certainly is the most adaptable to its environment. Going hand-in-hand with their laid-back, soulful and creative personalities, burnt, peachy lipsticks and light-as-a-feather lip stains are the perfect addition to a Pisces’ everyday beauty routine. Antipodes Lipstick in Golden Bay Nectar is sheer and sumptuous with hints of peach and honey, a classic neutral shade paying tribute to nature’s bounty, perfect for empathetic, and outdoorsy Pisces.