Living / 16 March, 2026 / Ellie Thompson
Today is National Lips Appreciation Day, which feels like the perfect excuse to show a little love to one of the easiest beauty upgrades out there: lipstick.
Whether you’re racing out the door on the school run, heading into a meeting, or grabbing a quick coffee with friends, a swipe of lipstick can instantly make you feel more polished, even if the rest of your makeup routine hasn’t quite happened yet.
Here are my top three lipsticks
If there’s one lipstick that always feels a little bit special, it’s Tom Ford’s Scarlet Rouge. It’s that perfect classic red that somehow manages to be bold without being overpowering. The formula is beautifully creamy and glides on effortlessly, leaving lips looking polished and glamorous in seconds.
It’s my go-to when I want something timeless — whether it’s dinner out, an event, or simply a day when I need a confidence boost.
MUA – Bona Fide
Proof that great lipstick doesn’t have to cost a fortune. MUA’s Bona Fide is one of those brilliant budget finds that punches well above its price point.
The shade is flattering, easy to wear and perfect for everyday. It’s the kind of lipstick you can throw on without a mirror and still look put together — ideal for busy mornings when you’re juggling school bags, coffee cups and everything else.
MAC – Dangerous
For days when you want something a little more playful, MAC’s Style Shocked is a brilliant pop of colour, but sadly, like all my favourite make-up shades, it has been discontinued! MAC Dangerous looks like the closest match.
MAC lipsticks are legendary for a reason: fantastic pigmentation, great staying power and a shade for every mood. Style Shocked adds just enough brightness to lift your whole look, making it perfect for spring and summer days.
One of the most meaningful lipsticks in my collection is Evie Dove from Code8. The shade itself is a beautiful red with a warm orange undertone, designed to be bold, uplifting and flattering on a wide range of skin tones.
The formula comes from Code8’s Matte Velour range, which gives a soft, luminous matte finish while still feeling comfortable on the lips. It glides on easily and is enriched with ingredients like Vitamin E and squalene to keep lips hydrated rather than dry.
What makes this lipstick particularly special is the story behind it. The shade was created in honour of Evie Dove, and 20% of every sale goes to the Evie Dove Foundation, which supports the training of paediatric medical professionals.
A lipstick that looks beautiful and supports a meaningful cause? That’s something definitely worth celebrating on National Lip Appreciation Day.
National Lips Appreciation Day
National Lips Appreciation Day is a reminder that sometimes the smallest beauty rituals can make the biggest difference. A quick swipe of lipstick can lift your mood, pull an outfit together and add a little sparkle to even the busiest day.
Happy National Lips Appreciation Day!
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