national (non) lipstick day

there seems to be a day for everything under the sun and i ignore about 99.9% of them, but it would be highly questionable if i let a day dedicated to lipstick pass me by! in celebration of such a glorious occasion, i am opting to pay tribute to my three favorite lip shades of the moment – all of them not so much lipsticks, as non lipsticks.

first up is lipstick queen frog prince. yes, that there is a green tube of lipstick, but what looks downright frightening, blossoms into a gorgeous rosebud on the lips. it’s sheer, soft, and soothing – such a treat for anyone looking for a tinted balm that’s uniquely yours. click on over to instyle to see what it looks like on three very different skin tones and you’ll get the idea.

next on my list is tarte lipsurgence in energy noir. i am still a big fan of the original version, so a deepened berry shade was definitely calling my name. i love this one because it’s a fresh take on the blooming lip as we head into fall. on me, the color goes a bit more plummy, so it’s dark and sophisticated without being vampy. it’s perfect for toning down my normal go-to pink lip and pink cheek combo. it looks gorge with just a flush of bronzer and a defined brow. (bonus – it’s 30% off now through 8/3!)

finally, i have to call out e.l.f. for basically duplicating everyone’s favorite (yet overpriced) blossoming lip shade for a mere $6. e.l.f. studio gotta glow lip tint is your traditional reactive lip, a true pink that goes on silky smooth. the breaking news is that e.l.f. has brought my go-to, year-round winner to market at a price point that everyone can get behind, with a formula that rivals the best of the best. you’ll want to snatch this one up in multiples because it’s just that good.

so, there you have it, a non-lipstick approach to national lipstick day and three unique options for lips that won’t look like everyone else’s.

for fun, i would love to know your signature shade in the comments below – happy national lipstick day, beauties!