The 48 Best Cult and Classic Lip Shades Ever

999 by Christian Dior Rumored to be the lip color worn at the first-ever Christian Dior runway show (then known as 9), this is Dior’s best-sellin... 999 by Christian Dior Rumored to be the lip color worn at the first-ever Christian Dior runway show (then known as 9), this is Dior’s best-selling, classic red. It's often referred to by its other name: "Iconic."

Ruby Woo by M.A.C Beloved for its ability to look good on virtually everyone, celebrity makeup artist Beau Nelson explains its appeal: “It’s a vi... Ruby Woo by M.A.C Beloved for its ability to look good on virtually everyone, celebrity makeup artist Beau Nelson explains its appeal: “It’s a vivid, matte, matte, matte, red." (Yes, he said matte three times for emphasis.) "It takes a little effort to get on, but it's velvety-red look is worth it.” It's also known for being virtually indestructible, lasting from morning to night, with meals in-between.

Black Honey Almost Lipstick by Clinique A freebie in makeup gift sets in the '80s, Clinique's Black Honey Almost became a cult favorite in the '9... Black Honey Almost Lipstick by Clinique A freebie in makeup gift sets in the '80s, Clinique's Black Honey Almost became a cult favorite in the '90s as a lipgloss/lipstick that, in oft-repeated beauty parlance, looks good on almost everyone. It's now the best-reviewed lipstick on MakeupAlley, with over 1,000 reviews.

Spice by M.A.C This cinnamon-brown lip color, which Linda Evangelista once publicly praised, was sold out for most of the '90s. Nelson explains: ... Spice by M.A.C This cinnamon-brown lip color, which Linda Evangelista once publicly praised, was sold out for most of the '90s. Nelson explains: "No iconic products list would be complete without this '90s supermodel favorite."

Schiap by NARS Named for designer Elsa Schiaparelli, it’s one of the brightest pink lipsticks with blue undertones. Maggie Gyllenhaal wore... Schiap by NARS Named for designer Elsa Schiaparelli, it’s one of the brightest pink lipsticks with blue undertones. Maggie Gyllenhaal wore the shade with her Dries Van Noten to the 2010 Oscars.

Rouge Noir by Chanel Once known as Vamp, this color was reformulated to become Rouge Noir. Nelson describes the classic color: “A '90s staple, ... Rouge Noir by Chanel Once known as Vamp, this color was reformulated to become Rouge Noir. Nelson describes the classic color: “A '90s staple, this deep-brown burgundy shade still looks as fresh today as it did then.”

Lady Danger by M.A.C A true red-orange, this is the classic shade always seen on the lips of street-style star and Harper's Bazaar editor Jo... Lady Danger by M.A.C A true red-orange, this is the classic shade always seen on the lips of street-style star and Harper's Bazaar editor Joanna Hillman.

No. 19 Fuchsia Rouge Pur Couture by YSL The first shade created by Monsieur Saint Laurent in 1979.

Angel by M.A.C In 2011, an up-and-coming reality star named Kim Kardashian proclaimed this her favorite lipstick shade. This pink lipstick (... Angel by M.A.C In 2011, an up-and-coming reality star named Kim Kardashian proclaimed this her favorite lipstick shade. This pink lipstick (with a touch of frost) has been a best seller ever since.

Funny Face by NARS Named after the Audrey Hepburn film, this is a fuchsia that looks either more purple or pink depending upon your skin tone.

Pirate by Chanel A classic red with blue undertones, this was one of six shades formulated to mimic Coco Chanel's signature red lip. This shade b... Pirate by Chanel A classic red with blue undertones, this was one of six shades formulated to mimic Coco Chanel's signature red lip. This shade became a cult-favorite, especially after YouTube makeup artist Lisa Eldridge demonstrated its appeal in a video.

Russian Red by M.A.C One of the three best-selling reds by M.A.C (the others being Ruby Woo and Lady Danger), this is a cherry red that leans t... Russian Red by M.A.C One of the three best-selling reds by M.A.C (the others being Ruby Woo and Lady Danger), this is a cherry red that leans the slightest bit toward orange.

Fire and Ice and Cherries in the Snow by Revlon Nelson explains the cult appeal of these two shades: "Cherries in the Snow is a pink-based r... Fire and Ice and Cherries in the Snow by Revlon Nelson explains the cult appeal of these two shades: "Cherries in the Snow is a pink-based red that has literally been around for decades and is a timeless classic. Fire and Ice was maybe the first Hollywood-red lipstick (and matching nail color). The ads asked readers questions and warned that you were only bold enough to wear the shade if you answered at least eight of them with 'Yes.'"

Myth by M.A.C On internet message boards, you often see the acronym MLBB — meaning "My Lips But Better." This is one of the best-review... Myth by M.A.C On internet message boards, you often see the acronym MLBB — meaning "My Lips But Better." This is one of the best-reviewed MLBB shades on MakeupAlley of all time, praised for being a nude that isn't too nude. It's a frequently sold-out best seller.

Bruised Plum by Tom Ford Quite simply, one of the best plum-colored lipsticks of all time.

Jungle Red by NARS Nelson explains why this shade is Old Hollywood (and used by him in our GIF tutorial): "In addition to a glamorous The Wo... Jungle Red by NARS Nelson explains why this shade is Old Hollywood (and used by him in our GIF tutorial): "In addition to a glamorous The Women reference, this shade of bright, slightly blue-based red is perfect for an old Hollywood power pout."

No. 1 by YSL Lupita Nyong'o's makeup artist, Nick Barose, calls this is one of his favorite red shades. "It's a classic red that's creamy wi... No. 1 by YSL Lupita Nyong'o's makeup artist, Nick Barose, calls this is one of his favorite red shades. "It's a classic red that's creamy with a hint of sheen, and glamorous and sexy," he says.

#400 by Armani This classic red is what is known as the Armani Red, and the same shade as seen in the brand's signature red lipstick case. Pho... #400 by Armani This classic red is what is known as the Armani Red, and the same shade as seen in the brand's signature red lipstick case. Photo: Roger Cabello

Brown by Bobbi Brown Bobbi Brown started her makeup line with ten lipstick shades and this was one of the originals — a color that helped mak... Brown by Bobbi Brown Bobbi Brown started her makeup line with ten lipstick shades and this was one of the originals — a color that helped make brown lips a trend in the 1990s.

Trafalgar by Christian Dior In every beauty range, there's a classic red that's a best seller, and a second best seller that's a more quirky red.... Trafalgar by Christian Dior In every beauty range, there's a classic red that's a best seller, and a second best seller that's a more quirky red. This red has a jolt of orange through it — no less pigmented than the 999, but just as vibrant.

Heroine by M.A.C Originally launched as part of M.A.C's Reel Sexy collection, it quickly became a fan favorite (multiple internet message boards ... Heroine by M.A.C Originally launched as part of M.A.C's Reel Sexy collection, it quickly became a fan favorite (multiple internet message boards devoted threads to documenting their love affair of the lipstick). M.A.C heard their cries and brought this violet shade into its permanent collection this year.

No. 52 Rouge Pur Couture by YSL A new cult favorite, this shade sold out everywhere worldwide after its appearance on a Korean TV drama. It ... No. 52 Rouge Pur Couture by YSL A new cult favorite, this shade sold out everywhere worldwide after its appearance on a Korean TV drama. It now goes for up to $100 on eBay.

Honolulu Honey by NARS One of the most famous nude shades of all time.

Amande Sucrée by Lancôme Barose explains why this bronze should be a classic: "I love that it gives a sheer bronze glaze for th... Amande Sucrée by Lancôme Barose explains why this bronze should be a classic: "I love that it gives a sheer bronze glaze for the mouth. It's perfect for darker skin because it's not a nude but a bit more interesting and glam."

Exaltée by Chanel This pink-red is a new favorite of celebrity makeup artists and has been worn by Emma Stone, and most recently, Emma Wat... Exaltée by Chanel This pink-red is a new favorite of celebrity makeup artists and has been worn by Emma Stone, and most recently, Emma Watson at the Golden Globes.

Airy Fairy by Rimmel This shade is praised on MakeupAlley for being one of the most foolproof "My Lips But Better" shades of all time w... Airy Fairy by Rimmel This shade is praised on MakeupAlley for being one of the most foolproof "My Lips But Better" shades of all time with over 500 five-star reviews. Photo: VERIFY IMAGE USAGE RIGHTS PRIOR TO USE

Grege 1947 by Christian Dior Originally conceived as a highlighter blush for lips, this is a classic, polished, peach-based nude.

Viva Glam by M.A.C Nelson explains the historical significance behind this color: "The first makeup product ever to be promoted by a drag qu... Viva Glam by M.A.C Nelson explains the historical significance behind this color: "The first makeup product ever to be promoted by a drag queen. RuPaul Charles made history by declaring 'I am the M.A.C girl' in the advertising for this life-saving lip shade." Every single penny of this lipstick and its successors goes to AIDS research.

Casablanca by Tom Ford Although he's best known for his more vibrant color choices, this is Tom Ford's most commercially successful lipstick shad... Casablanca by Tom Ford Although he's best known for his more vibrant color choices, this is Tom Ford's most commercially successful lipstick shade.

Lasting Kiss by Lancôme This pinkish-brown is the current best-selling Lancôme shade.

Addict Lip Glow Color Reviver Balm by Dior This sheer, moisturizing lip balm magically changes color on everyone and is one of the most positivel... Addict Lip Glow Color Reviver Balm by Dior This sheer, moisturizing lip balm magically changes color on everyone and is one of the most positively reviewed lip products on MakeupAlley.

Violet Femme by Tom Ford Barose explains why this shade is a favorite: "It's a bright color that's unique with purple undertones; it's brigh... Violet Femme by Tom Ford Barose explains why this shade is a favorite: "It's a bright color that's unique with purple undertones; it's bright but deep, so it's easy to wear."

No. 311 by Clé de Peau Beauté This is Clé de Peau Beauté's best-selling lipstick color by far. This shade is fre... No. 311 by Clé de Peau Beauté This is Clé de Peau Beauté's best-selling lipstick color by far. This shade is frequently worn by the brand's face, Amanda Seyfried.

Fairest Nude by L'Oréal Paris Described as a perfect nude (especially for those with olive complexions) on MakeupAlley.

Iconic by Dolce and Gabbana Dolce and Gabbana's best-selling blue-red, with a touch of shine. Photo: Lee Gladman/Tag creatve

Kate Moss 01 by Rimmel London Kate Moss and Rimmel London teamed up to create a line of lipstick shades — and 01 is billed as the perfect red, wo... Kate Moss 01 by Rimmel London Kate Moss and Rimmel London teamed up to create a line of lipstick shades — and 01 is billed as the perfect red, worn by Moss in the ads. It's one of our favorite drugstore lipsticks of all time for its intense color payoff and hydration. Photo: VERIFY IMAGE USAGE RIGHT PRIOR TO USE;

Kate Lipstick 111 by Rimmel London A balanced red lipstick that's the second best seller in Kate Moss's collection, Rimmel. Some also see this as... Kate Lipstick 111 by Rimmel London A balanced red lipstick that's the second best seller in Kate Moss's collection, Rimmel. Some also see this as a stand-in for M.A.C's Ruby Woo. Photo: 12 months, US Only, all media

Red Revival by Maybelline One of Maybelline's best-selling shades, it's seen as the drugstore version of M.A.C's Russian Red.

Dare to Bare by By Terry By Terry's best-selling shade worldwide, a pink-based nude that glides over the lips, with a blend of hyaluronic acid an... Dare to Bare by By Terry By Terry's best-selling shade worldwide, a pink-based nude that glides over the lips, with a blend of hyaluronic acid and something called "filler spheres" (which promises plump, moisturized color that won't settle into crevices).

Monique by Jouer Barose explains why this is a nude worth using. "It's a classic nude lip that's very chic and polished. It's the kind of nu... Monique by Jouer Barose explains why this is a nude worth using. "It's a classic nude lip that's very chic and polished. It's the kind of nude that looks elegant and not like a too-natural, going-to-the-beach nude (which is like, What's the point?)." Photo: © undefined Nordstrom

Hot and Enchantress by Cover Girl These two are Cover Girl's best-selling shades. Hot is often seen as a stand-in for either M.A.C's Ruby Woo or ... Hot and Enchantress by Cover Girl These two are Cover Girl's best-selling shades. Hot is often seen as a stand-in for either M.A.C's Ruby Woo or Russian Red. Enchantress is a purple-based pink.

Hevyn by Surratt Beauty This shade is Troy Surratt's homage to his late mentor, Kevyn Aucoin. Called a Lipslique, this product's texture is akin ... Hevyn by Surratt Beauty This shade is Troy Surratt's homage to his late mentor, Kevyn Aucoin. Called a Lipslique, this product's texture is akin to what would result if lip gloss and lipstick had a baby. It's Surratt's current best seller and another My Lips But Better shade.

Strange Magic by Marc Jacobs Beauty This mauve-based nude is Marc Jacobs's best-selling shade.

Intense Nude by Estée Lauder Earlier this year, Estée Lauder created Pure Color Envy Lipsticks — a new line of ultrahydrating lipst... Intense Nude by Estée Lauder Earlier this year, Estée Lauder created Pure Color Envy Lipsticks — a new line of ultrahydrating lipsticks, formulated with hyaluronic acid and intense pigment. (Each tube clicks closed with a satisfying magnetic snap.) This balanced nude has emerged as one of the line's best sellers.

Tulip by Shiseido A true pink with the slightest undertone of blue, this light and moisturizing lipstick is a best seller.

Petal Rebel by Maybelline This shade of light pink was worn by Charlotte Free in the brand's commercial, in which her lips almost matched the col... Petal Rebel by Maybelline This shade of light pink was worn by Charlotte Free in the brand's commercial, in which her lips almost matched the color of her hair.

Exposed by Tarte Although this color is technically described as a nude, it's more of a pink-rose-brown — and a makeup artist favorite.

Medieval by Lipstick Queen In medieval times, women used lemon to give their lips a berry-ish tint. This moisturizing lipstick hybrid takes its s... Medieval by Lipstick Queen In medieval times, women used lemon to give their lips a berry-ish tint. This moisturizing lipstick hybrid takes its sheer, berry inspiration from that color.