National Lipstick Day 2025: 7 lipstick shades that complement the dusky tone perfectly (look inside for brand tips)

Lips don’t lie!

Ladies (and everyone else who appreciates), it’s time to fish out the red hot armor! National Lipstick Day 2025 is here; on July 29, we pay tribute to that tiny but mighty tube that transforms moods, outfits, and boosts confidence levels. We keep preaching, makeup is for all, irrespective of skin color and gender; but if you have a dusky skin tone, finding lipstick shades that truly complement your complexion can be a tad bit challenging. However, it can also be a makeup game-changer.

The days of flaky nudes and unflattering pinks are gone. ‘Tis the time to celebrate melanin-rich beauty with hues that don’t shy away from being bold; they pop, empower, and enhance. Whether you’re into bold berries, spicy browns, or show-stopping reds, we’ve rounded up 7 must-try shades (along with top brand tips) to help you slay all day, all year!

The blended luxury is back! A blend of rust, orange, and brown, terracotta is a warm, clay-like hue that flatters dusky tones like a dream. It brings out the natural golden and olive undertones of the skin without looking too loud. Terracotta adds warmth and vibrance without overwhelming deeper skin tones. It can be worn during the day or glammed up for an evening look.

Brand tip: Try it from Fenty Beauty Mattemoiselle Plush Matte Lipstick in Freckle Fiesta, and Kiro Beauty Super Butter Lip Lacquer in Terracotta Rush

This one’s 90s nostalgia meeting modern chic! Brown is back, and this time, it's bolder, warmer, and tailor-made for dusky tones. Chocolate shades add richness and power to the pout while being neutral enough for daily wear. Chocolate brown brings depth to dusky skin and pairs well with gold-toned or bronze makeup.

Brand tip: Try it from MAC Powder Kiss Lipstick in Double Fudge, and NYX Soft Matte Lip Cream in Dubai.

Talk about the best of both worlds! Finding the right nude can be tricky for dusky tones, but rosy brown hits the sweet spot. It’s subtle yet pigmented, soft but impactful, perfect for an everyday lip that still looks polished. The brown tones prevent ashiness, while the rosy tint adds dimension and freshness.

Brand tip: Try it from Charlotte Tilbury Matte Revolution Lipstick in Pillow Talk Intense, and L'Oréal Paris Color Riche Intense Volume Matte Lipstick in Rosewood Nonchalant.

Think about lips that’s berrilicious! Berry tones, especially plum, look intensely rich on dusky skin. These shades offer a bold contrast that enhances natural melanin and adds a dash of drama to your overall look. Berry hues pick up cool and warm undertones, making them versatile and statement-worthy.

Brand tip: Try it from Maybelline SuperStay Matte Ink in Voyager, Smashbox Always On Liquid Lipstick in Bawse, and SUGAR Cosmetics Mettle Satin Lipstick in Elizabeth.

Bring back the fiery goddess! This is *not* your average red; brick red features warm, orange-leaning undertones that complement dusky skin beautifully. It’s sultry and sophisticated, perfect for adding fire to your makeup game. Unlike cooler reds, brick shades blend into the skin’s warmth, creating a cohesive and vibrant look.

Brand tip: Try it from MAC Matte Lipstick in Chili, and Lakmé 9 to 5 Primer + Matte Lip Color in Red Coat.

How we like the summery breeziness! Coral can be tricky, true; but on dusky skin, a peachy-coral shade looks radiant and refreshing. It’s fun, flirty, and brings instant brightness to the face. Peachy tones bring warmth and vibrancy, offering a playful look perfect for summer brunches or beach days.

Brand tip: Try it from Kay Beauty Matteinee Lip Crayon in Script, and Colorbar Velvet Matte Lipstick in Peach Crush.

It’s lusciou-romance-coded! Berry rose is a universal favorite that walks the fine line between pink and plum. On dusky skin, it offers a subtle pop that’s sweet, romantic, and camera-friendly. It enhances the lips' natural pigment while adding just enough color to brighten the entire face.

Brand tip: Try it from Bobbi Brown Luxe Matte Lip Color in Razzberry, and SUGAR Cosmetics Nothing Else Matter Longwear Lipstick in Mauve Moves.