*Here, I’m wearing “Unveil” Stunna Lip Paint Longwear Fluid Lip Color by Fenty Beauty.*

Ever since I was a little girl, I’ve always admired makeup and its transformative effects. I remember watching my mom and grandma as they’d sit at their vanities and create beautiful masterpieces that only enhanced their natural beauty. I would get so excited when I could play around with different lip glosses, tinted chapsticks and lip sticks — I always felt as if I was immediately transformed into a princess, news anchor, teacher, doctor, America’s Next Top Model… really any of my fantasies back in the day!

If you haven’t realized yet, lip colors are one of my “must-have” beauty products! My lips have always been one of my favorite features, and I’ve learned to embrace those things that make us feel unique and special — my lips are that to me! It’s a rare day to see me without a lip color on — often matching the colors to my mood, outfit of the day or choosing something that inspires me to seize each day.

Oh, it's time to be on my boss status? Heard you — pulling out my go-to fire red.

Wearing neutrals? Why not add a pop of color — a bomb magenta it is!

We’re going out for date night? Definitely putting something deep, rich and sexy — chocolate brown.

Although I’ve always loved lip colors, I had to grow to understand that there were certain shades and hues that complement my skin tone best. My mom’s light-pink nude may not have worked as well on me as it did on her, but a warm earthy-brown nude was perfection! The lipsticks I’ve highlighted below do not include your average, traditional shades, but a wide variety of colors that would complement a range of skin tones & can be used year-round!

Here are some of my current favorite, go-to lip colors:

Unveil by Fenty Beauty

This Stunna Lip Paint Long-wear Fluid Lip Color is one of my favorite formulas when it comes to lip colors. Described as a rich, chocolate brown, “Unveil” adds depth to any look and transfers well from daytime fashion to evening styles. Its smooth texture and matte finish keep my lips feeling hydrated and has been pretty transfer-proof whether I’m eating, drinking or planting a kiss (wink, wink). I highly recommend trying Fenty Beauty’s Stunna Lip Paint!

Merry by Kylie Cosmetics

From one of her original Limited Edition Holiday Collections, Kylie Jenner’s “Merry” is one of my favorite red lipsticks — so much so, that I’ve made it last for years now, only using it on special occasions. This Matte Lipstick and Lip Liner Duo is described as a “deepened rich red” that truly transforms you into BOSS status as soon as it’s applied.

This color may not be available on Kylie Cosmetics since it’s from a Limited Edition Holiday Collection, but you may be able to find it with a quick Google search!

Antique Velvet by MAC

Antique Velvet is a color that I’ve been wearing since 2015 and I’ve even gotten several of my friends on board! This intense brown, with a hint of burgundy, adds power to any look. I truly feel powerful when I apply this shade — as if I can tackle anything that comes my way. What a feeling!

Taupe by MAC

MAC describes “Taupe” as a muted reddish-taupe brown and it’s truly the color of my dreams! This matte lipstick is the perfect everyday shade — whether you’re on the go, headed to work or on a staycation, this lip color enhances your natural beauty in a way that you have to try for yourself. Truly 10/10.

Photo by MAC

“Photo” is hands-down my ALL-TIME FAVORITE everyday lip color! Described as a golden brown by MAC, this lip color has become my “perfect nude.” It’s satin formula allows for easy application and leaves my lips feeling hydrated all-day long. This one is a must-try!

Captive by MAC

I found “Captive” a few years ago through the BACK 2 MAC take back program. Did you know when you return six empty MAC makeup containers to a participating MAC counter you can receive a FREE standard lipstick of your choosing? This pinkish-plum shade was introduced to me by a MAC retail sales associate and I’m forever grateful. “Captive” is the perfect pop of color and I love adding it to complement some of my more neutral styles.

Clove by Kylie Cosmetics

Go. buy. this. NOW. Described as a deepened rosewood, “Clove” comes as a Matte Liquid Lipstick and Lip Liner Duo and has become a staple in my beauty routine! Again, anything that is transfer-proof is a win for me! This shade will make your natural features pop and leave you feeling nothing less than fabulous.