How To Wear Dark Lipstick For The Fall

Person with dark lipstick and styled hair wearing white clothing closeup portrait — @nikki_makeup / Instagram

Fall is fast approaching, and whether you're someone who wears the same makeup look all year round or likes to switch things up with the new season, there are plenty of makeup trends to look forward to. While summer brings us juicy, glossy lips to match warmer temperatures, fall revels in deeper, autumnal shades of lipstick that enhance your eyes, skin, and pout when the air gets crisp. Year after year, the moody trend pops back up in rotation—it's a classic for a reason. If you are ready to commit to a deep plum stain or simply looking for a sheer wash of berry, there are endless ways to make the look your own. Ahead, find 15 makeup looks with dark lipstick to get you ready for fall.

01 of 15

Shiny Pout

A person with styled hair and prominent earrings wearing makeup with a focus on lips and eyes — @davidrazzano/Instagram

If dark lipstick is on your fall list but you prefer a more hydrated look, opt for a glossy formula. The added shine takes the edge off the deeper color while still feeling sophisticated. Pair the statement lip with lighter eyeshadow shades (like this dreamy lilac) to create a beautiful contrast.

02 of 15

Soft Cranberry

A woman with hair styled in a high bun wearing a sleeveless outfit — @cherishbrookehill/Instagram

Wearing dark lipstick doesn't mean you have to commit to the deepest shades available. This soft cranberry lip color is both versatile and suitable for anyone who wants to wear deeper lip colors but doesn't want to commit to something bold. Wear it with dressier eyeshadow looks or keep it simple with clean makeup.

03 of 15

Make It Matte

A person with sleek hair wearing a white top and a necklace posing indoors — @nikki_makeup / Instagram

Dark matte lipsticks trend above most lipstick finishes during the fall season—and for good reason. Worn with simple makeup and groomed brows, they make a statement on their own. When wearing a matte formula, ensure your lips are exfoliated and hydrated beforehand to prevent feathering or flaking. Once your lips feel smooth, apply a few coats of the matte lipstick until you achieve the desired finish and color.

04 of 15

Color Play

A person with styled makeup and a sleek hairstyle in a modern setting — @nikki_makeup /Instagram

Don't forget, there is more than just one color when it comes to dark lipstick. Layer multiple hues and finishes to create a custom combo. Take this stunning berry and pink lip, for example. The metallic finish on top of a matte base is the cherry on top of the look.

05 of 15

Naturally Beautiful

A person with a calm expression looking directly at the camera — @nikki_makeup /Instagram

Consider this proof that dark lipstick can be neutral. The secret is keeping the center of the lips light. Start with a dark lipliner pencil and shape the lips, moving towards the center, and fill in the rest of the lips with a lighter, complementary lip color to finish.

06 of 15

Deep, Earthy Hues

Person tilting head sideways with glossy makeup and styled hair — @nikki_makeup / Instagram

Brown is a quintessential fall color, so why not sport it on your lips? This chocolate brown glossy lip look is certainly dreamy. Worn with rose gold eyeshadow and glowing skin, it's a lip look that we've bookmarked for fall makeup inspiration.

07 of 15

Rusted Hues

A person styled with unique makeup and hair in a room setting — @davidrazzano/ Instagram

Following the trend of wearing earth tones during the fall season, rusty brown is a surprising lipstick color that's both fun and flattering. When wearing warm browns on the lips, you can either keep the rest of the look simple or choose to get creative with your eye makeup. This sea foam green eyeliner looks beautiful paired with the warm lip hue and adds an unexpected playful touch.

08 of 15

Deep Ombré Lips

Closeup of a models face emphasizing makeup details especially glossy red lips and detailed eye makeup — @danessa_myricks / Instagram

Wearing an ombré lip look that shows both dark and lighter tones is a lovely way to wear contrasting, deeper hues for fall. In this case, start with a deeper cranberry or oxblood lipstick color for the outer edges of the lips. As you work your way toward the center, swap to a brighter red for the notorious contrast ombré is known for.

09 of 15

Gorgeous and Glossy

A closeup of a person looking upward wearing earrings and having a glossy styled appearance — @davidrazzano / Instagram

Dark lipstick doesn't need to be void of hydration. Add a lip gloss for the juiciest boost of shine. Pro tip: Opt for a clear gloss to avoid altering the color of your lipstick. Keep one in your makeup bag for quick and easy touch-ups on the go.

10 of 15

Pops of Color

Daria Strokous posing with a hand under her chin wearing statement earrings and styled makeup — @davidrazzano / Instagram

Just because you're wearing moody lipstick doesn't mean you can't wear color elsewhere in your makeup look. Combining dark lipstick colors with high-saturation eyeshadow is a great way to play with color and have fun this fall season.

11 of 15

Deeply Dramatic

Patina Miller posing with braided hairstyle wearing a dark top — @vincentoquendo / Instagram

Craving drama? Pairing your favorite dark lipstick with a smoky eye instantly creates an elevated look for a special occasion. The key is balance, as one element should not overpower the other. Keep the rest of the skin glowy and hydrated to keep the focus exactly where you want it.

12 of 15

Eyes, Cheeks and Lips

A person with intense eye makeup and dark lipstick looking forward hair styled back — @davidrazzano / Instagram

Wearing dark lipstick is the perfect excuse to get moody with your lashes and cheeks. The best part is that it doesn't need to be complicated. Simply apply a few coats of volumizing mascara (don't forget the bottom lash line) and a blush tone that adds a natural yet noticeable flush to your skin.

13 of 15

Complimentary Colors

Person with bold eye makeup wearing a statement necklace — @danessa_myricks / Instagram

Pairing a dark lipstick with a bolder, colorful eyeshadow is a fresh way to wear the trend. Experiment with different color combinations until you find ones that are flattering to you, and then choose whether to keep your lips matte or glossy, depending on your preference.

14 of 15

Deep, Dark Lips

Person posing with distinctive makeup and earrings — @davidrazzano / Instagram

When it comes to dark lipstick, the possibilities are endless in terms of tone. Whether it's berry, crimson, dark red, or black, you can express yourself in whichever color you prefer. This dark lipstick color shows how black cherry lips can be just as creative and modern.

15 of 15

Stunning Shape

Person with styled short hair bold eyeliner and dark lipstick looking directly at the camera — @davidrazzano/ Instagram

Dark lipstick colors instantly put the shape of your lips on display. When wearing a matte, dark lipstick, use a lipliner in the same color family to create perfect, crisp edges. Once you've applied your lipstick, go over the area with the liner and shape your lips until all the lines are clean and smooth.