The most popular MAC lipstick shades to flatter every skin tone

Whether you're a complete makeup newbie buying their first lipstick or looking to expand your collection with a few more key shades, the most popular MAC lipsticks are a great place to start. The iconic brand's extensive color range can be overwhelming, so it's nice to have a smaller starting point of the best-loved shades to inspire your next purchase (or two).

Online beauty retailer Lookfantastic conducted a deep dive into the most popular MAC Lipstick shades to give us all some inspo for expanding our collections— as with the best eyeshadow palettes, there are so many choices that it's helpful to have a starting point when shopping. 

The list features some of the most recognizable MAC shades across pinks, beiges, browns, and reds. Surprisingly, though, neither Ruby Woo nor Lady Danger made the top 10—nor did Jennifer Aniston's Rachel Green lipstick color. Can you believe? Keep reading for the top 10 list in full and to find your new favorite MAC lipstick shade.

Where to buy MAC lipsticks in the US

• ASOS (opens in new tab): Enjoy next day delivery on MAC by shopping the Face + Body section
• Lookfantastic (opens in new tab): Get 15% off select MAC buys right now with the code "REFRESH"
• MAC (opens in new tab): Go directly to MAC to take advantage of things like their "Back to MAC" scheme
• Nordstrom (opens in new tab): The department store often has big sales including discounts on beauty buys

Where to buy MAC lipsticks in the UK

• ASOS (opens in new tab): Enjoy next day delivery on MAC by shopping the Face + Body section
• Boots (opens in new tab): Earn Advantage Card points on Studio Fix, Velvet Teddy, Fix+ Spray and more
• House of Fraser (opens in new tab): Find sporadic MAC discounts and money-saving bundles 
• John Lewis (opens in new tab): The iconic department store is a great place to snap up your MAC faves, sometimes on sale
• Lookfantastic (opens in new tab): Shop a range of MAC lipstick shades and formulas at the beauty e-tailer
• MAC (opens in new tab): Go directly to MAC to take advantage of things like their "Back to MAC" scheme
• Next (opens in new tab): Now a beauty destination that stocks all your MAC faves as well as fashion and homeware

The top 10 most popular MAC lipstick shades

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1. MAC Matte Lipstick in Velvet Teddy

RRP: $21/£17.50

Loved by the Kardashian-Jenners, the most popular MAC lipstick shade is of course their iconic pinky-peach nude Velvet Teddy. Every lipstick fan will have sworn this deep but ever-so-slightly rosy beige as their staple at some point in time. And it comes with a flattering no-shine matte finish.

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2. MAC Matte Lipstick in Mehr

RRP: $21/£17.50

This mid-tone mauve pink works beautifully on all skin tones thanks to its matte finish and flattering soft pink that is deepened by the tiniest hint of beige.

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3. MAC Cosmetics Satin Lipstick in Twig

RRP: $21/£18.50

A gorgeous subtle brownish-pink with a satin finish that leaves lips feeling comfortable and hydrated without fading too quickly. We would suggest wearing it with the Charlotte Tilbury Pillow Talk Instant Eye Palette for a soft, pretty look.

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4. MAC Cosmetics Matte Lipstick in Whirl

RRP: $21/£17.50

A dirty rose color, which like the best eyeshadows for dark skin, is pigmented enough to maintain its similar color on different skin tones.

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5. MAC Cosmetics Matte Lipstick in Taupe

RRP: $21/£17.50

This one does what it says in the name but comes with a warmer taupe than the usual greyish hue you might expect. The muted taupe brown comes with a reddish tinge for a flattering finish.

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6. MAC Cosmetics Matte Lipstick in Diva

RRP: $21/£17.50

A beautifully bold color, this matte lipstick a deep red-burgundy with a hint of plum for something a bit bolder than your usual nude. Ideal for nights out or days when you want to make a statement.

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7. MAC Cosmetics Matte Lipstick in Chili

RRP: $21/£17.50

A beautiful red, this stands out a little from the usual with its burnt finish that creates a unique red-orange-brown blend on the lips. Pair with your best eyeliner for a modern Hollywood glam.

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8. MAC Matte Lipstick in Honey Love

RRP: $21/£17.50

This light beige is warmed by a hint of rose and is lovely for summer days. Just be aware that it is on the lighter side of the beige spectrum so can show up differently on darker skin tones.

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9. MAC Cosmetics Matte Lipstick in Kinda Sexy

RRP: $21/£17.50

A pretty neutral color, this comes with a pinky rose hue that softens most makeup looks. It's ideal for pairing with your best bb cream for a soft daytime makeup look.

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10. MAC Cosmetics Matte Lipstick in Yash

RRP: $21/£17.50

This MAC lipstick shade is great for a staple everyday color as the deep neutral goes well with all skin tones and most makeup looks. We would suggest pairing with our favorite Giorgio Armani Luminous Silk foundation for a signature glowy look.

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