There are lipsticks, and then there are lipsticks. You know the kind—the ones that are instantly recognisable with an icon status, that have been worn by the likes of Marilyn Monroe and more. From red-carpet reds to burgundy, there’s something magical about a lipstick shade that stands the test of time—those iconic tubes that have kissed lips, sparked trends, and held cult status in makeup bags for generations. Here are some of the must-haves that will always have room in your beauty bag.
MAC Ruby Woo
MAC’s Ruby Woo is perhaps one of the most universally adored red lipsticks. Launched in 1999, this vivid, blue-toned red is the ultimate power shade. Its matte finish is unforgivingly bold, staying put through long days and even longer nights. Worn by everyone from Rihanna to Taylor Swift, Ruby Woo is famous for its ability to flatter every skin tone.
Chanel Rouge Noir
Originally debuting on the Chanel runway in 1994, Chanel’s Rouge Noir is the quintessential vampy lip. This deep, almost-black red quickly became a cult favorite, embodying the elegance of Chanel. Famously worn by Uma Thurman in Pulp Fiction, Rouge Noir has inspired countless imitations, but none have truly captured the beauty of the original.
Revlon Super Lustrous Lipstick in Fire & Ice
Launched in 1952, Revlon’s Fire & Ice was the bold red for every bombshell of the mid-20th century. This vibrant red with a touch of orange stands out in any crowd, evoking Old Hollywood glamour with every swipe. Revlon’s Fire & Ice ads from the ’50s became iconic, challenging women to embrace both sides of their personality—sweet and daring. Over seventy years later, this classic shade is still as captivating as ever.
Dior Rouge Dior 999
Dior’s Rouge 999 was born from the vision of Christian Dior himself. He believed that every woman needed a signature red, and this scarlet hue has remained a staple ever since. With its slight satin finish, 999 has a versatility that few reds offer. It’s no wonder that every Dior lipstick is inspired by this exact shade.
Max Factor Ruby Red
Marilyn famously wore Max Factor’s Ruby Red, a classic Hollywood red that became her signature. Max Factor was a staple in Hollywood makeup, and Ruby Red was one of the shades designed to capture that Old Hollywood glam that Monroe and other stars embodied. This red became synonymous with her image— bold, and unforgettable.
Clinique Almost Lipstick in Black Honey
From gooey gloss to Almost Lipstick, this one’s known for its unique, sheer, and universally flattering berry tone, Clinique’s Black Honey is an absolute cult classic. It first appeared in the early ’70s and has captivated generations with its ability to look stunning on everyone.
Elizabeth Arden’s Red Door Red
If we’re talking about heritage, Elizabeth Arden’s Red Door Red is as iconic as it gets. Inspired by the legendary Red Door Spa in New York, this vivid red shade symbolizes beauty and empowerment. It’s rumored that Arden herself handed out lipsticks to women marching for suffrage. Red Door Red continues to stand as a symbol of women’s strength and a reminder of the brand’s century-long legacy.
YSL Rouge Pur Couture No. 1 Le Rouge
The YSL Rouge Pur Couture in Le Rouge isn’t just a lipstick; it’s a fashion statement. Known for its luxurious formula and high pigment, this intense red stands as a classic symbol of the brand’s haute couture identity. The sleek, gold case alone makes it a beauty lover’s trophy. A swipe of Le Rouge is like an accessory itself—polished, high fashion, and unmistakably Yves Saint Laurent.
