I can still remember the first lipstick I ever tried, Rimmel’s Coffee Shimmer 264. It was just over a decade ago, aged 16 and a total newbie to any form of makeup. I’d grown up watching my Grandma, Mum and older sister spend their mornings devoting themselves to the latest beauty trends, whilst I looked on in amazement.
My first swipe of lipstick was a total love affair and I’ve never looked back. Lipstick has a way of making me feel seductive, confident and like I can conquer the world. Whether it’s a statement red, a neutral nude to enhance my natural lip or something completely different, I just love how powerful lipstick can make me feel!
So, this is an ode to a decade of my favourite lipsticks. Prepare to feel nostalgic.
MUA Makeup Academy – Velvet Lipstick Smooth Matte Finish Sassy £3
MUA Makeup Academy continues to be one of my favourite go-to brands for affordable and high-quality lipsticks. Whilst many of the lipstick collections that I grew up on are now discontinued, I can still rely on the same great formulas and shades. The vegan velvet matte lipstick collection is one that does not disappoint. If an array of super affordable, full coverage and matte finish lipsticks is on your list, then you’ve just found your new go-to splurge that won’t break the bank.
NYX Professional Makeup – Lip Lingerie Liquid Lipstick Teddy £7
NYX is and always will be a household name! Whilst the Lip Lingerie Liquid Lipstick collection was launched some time ago, it remains a regular in my monthly Boots shop. Available in 24 delicious shades from cinnamon pink to chocolate brown with a plush matte finish. It truly is one of my favourite lipstick ranges to date and it’s all due to its high-quality formulas and inclusive shades.
Bourjois – Rouge Velvet Lipstick Peach Club £8.49
I’m still absolutely devastated that Bourjois swiftly exited the UK. Gone are the days of acquiring Bourjois shades loved by my favourite bloggers. It’s not all bad news though because if you don’t feel like hopping overseas for a quick top-up, then I’ve got a treat for you as a few shades are still currently available to purchase online. Vibrant red ‘Hot Pepper’ and peachy pink ‘Peach Club’ are available to purchase from Look Fantastic and shade Orange is available to purchase from Superdrug. The collection is one of the OG’s of the UK liquid lipstick scene. If you fancy a trip down memory lane and a few long-lasting lippies to add to your collection then get your hands on these.
MAC – Retro Matte Lipstick Ruby Woo £17.50
Like many, MAC topped my Christmas and Birthday list every year due to its Retro Matte Lipstick collection with long-lasting formulas and intense matte colour payoffs. Ruby Woo is probably my most repurchased lipstick from any brand and I can confirm still to this day that it’s one shade I won’t hesitate to reach for. It’s one of the most versatile reds and one that is guaranteed to suit all skin tones.
Maybelline – Superstay 24HR Lipstick Plum Seduction £9.99
Maybelline has always offered up some of the best lipstick formulations and the Superstay 24HR Lipstick collection is living proof of that, available in an incredible 29 long-lasting shades that last up to 24 hours. My go-to shade is Plum Seduction which offers a two-step lip colour in one product. Simply apply the liquid lip colour to bare lips and after two minutes apply the ultra-conditioning balm side to seal in moisture.
