Best Lip Shades for Fall

There’s something about fall that makes me want to swap out my summer makeup and reach for richer, moodier shades.

Summer is all about fresh skin, glossy lips, and barely-there color. Then fall arrives and suddenly I’m reaching for berry tones, warm browns, muted pinks, and anything that makes a simple outfit feel a little more put together.

And you don’t need an entirely new makeup collection to make the switch. Sometimes, changing your lip color is all it takes to give your usual makeup routine a seasonal update.

Here are some fall-friendly lip shades worth trying this season.

Deep Berry

If there’s one lip color that immediately makes me think of fall, it’s deep berry. Think blackberry, wine, plum, or a rich raspberry—basically the moodier cousin of the bright pinks you might reach for during the warmer months.

I’ve always admired the people who can pull off a dramatic berry lip with complete confidence. And honestly? You can be one of them.

A deep berry shade adds a little mystery and drama without feeling quite as intense as a classic dark red.

Try it when: You’re heading out for dinner, getting dressed up, or simply want your makeup to make more of a statement.

Oxblood/Deep Burgundy

Want something even moodier? Enter oxblood. This deep burgundy shade sits somewhere between red, brown, and purple, making it one of those colors that instantly feels like fall.

It’s bold without necessarily being as bright as a traditional red, and it pairs beautifully with the richer colors that tend to make their way into our wardrobes this time of year. Think deep burgundy sweaters, gold jewelry, ankle boots, and a very good lip.

Try it when: You want a classic fall look with a little more drama.

Warm Terracotta

If deep berry and burgundy feel a little too bold, terracotta is a beautiful middle ground. It’s warm, earthy, and has just enough color to make your lips look polished without feeling like you’re wearing a super dramatic lipstick.

Depending on the shade, terracotta can lean more orange, brown, rose, or nude, which makes it surprisingly versatile.

I especially love this kind of shade for those days when you want your makeup to look intentional but don’t want to spend twenty minutes perfecting your lipstick.

Try it when: You want something warm and subtle that still feels distinctly autumnal.

Dusty Rose/Mauve

Not ready to give up your pinks just because summer is over? You don’t have to!

A dusty rose or muted mauve is basically the perfect transition shade between summer and fall. It’s softer than a berry, less warm than terracotta, and a little more sophisticated than a traditional pink. It’s also one of those colors that works beautifully as an everyday lip.

If you’re someone who doesn’t usually wear bold lipstick, this is probably where I’d start.

Try it when: You want a subtle everyday shade that still feels seasonal.

Cinnamon Brown

This is such a good fall shade, especially if you like warm neutrals but want something more interesting than a traditional nude.

Think warm brown with hints of cinnamon, caramel, or terracotta. It gives that cozy, autumnal feeling without being overly dramatic.

It’s also a great option if you like the “your lips but warmer” look.

Try it when: You want a neutral lip that still feels distinctly fall.

Classic Brick Red

I wouldn’t leave red out of a fall lip roundup—but I’d steer away from the bright, cherry reds associated with summer and holidays.

A brick red has warmer brown or orange undertones, which makes it feel much more autumnal.

It’s classic, flattering, and a little easier to wear casually than a super-bright red.

Try it when: You want a statement lip without going quite as dark as burgundy or oxblood.

The Debate: Matte or Glossy?

Here’s the thing, you don’t necessarily have to choose. A deep berry in a matte finish can feel dramatic and polished, while the exact same color in a gloss can feel softer and more casual.

And the same goes for your lighter fall shades. A glossy terracotta or dusty rose can give you that effortless, low-key makeup look, while a matte version will feel a little more put together.

Personally, I think the best fall lip is the one that you actually want to wear.

What’s your favorite lip color for fall?