Whether you're a complete makeup newbie buying your first lipstick, or you're looking to expand your collection with a few more staple shades, the best MAC lipsticks are a great place to start. Because the iconic brand's extensive color range can seem overwhelming at first glance, having a smaller starting point of the best-loved shades is nice to inspire your next purchase (or two, or three).
Online beauty retailer LOOKFANTASTIC conducted a deep dive into the most popular MAC Lipstick shades, giving us all inspiration for expanding our collections— because as with the best eyeshadow palettes, there are so many choices that it's nice to have a starting point when shopping.
The list features some of the most recognizable MAC shades across browns, reds, pinks, and beiges. Surprisingly, though, neither Ruby Woo nor Lady Danger made the top 10—nor did the exact MAC lipstick Jennifer Aniston wore as Friends' Rachel Green. Keep reading for the top 10 list in full to find a new favorite MAC lipstick shade or rediscover an old favorite.
Where to buy MAC lipsticks in the US
- ASOS: Enjoy next day delivery on MAC by shopping the Face + Body section
- LOOKFANTASTIC: Another beauty e-tailer that stocks your MAC faves
- MAC Cosmetics: Go directly to MAC to take advantage of things like their "Back to MAC" scheme
- Nordstrom: The department store often has big sales including discounts on beauty buys
Where to buy MAC lipsticks in the UK
- ASOS: Enjoy next day delivery on MAC by shopping the Face + Body section
- Boots: Earn Advantage Card points on Studio Fix, Velvet Teddy, Fix+ Spray and more
- House of Fraser: Find sporadic MAC discounts and money-saving bundles
- John Lewis: The iconic department store is a great place to snap up your MAC faves, sometimes on sale
- LOOKFANTASTIC: Shop a range of MAC lipstick shades and formulas at the beauty e-tailer
- MAC Cosmetics: Go directly to MAC to take advantage of things like their "Back to MAC" scheme
- Next: Now a beauty destination that stocks all your MAC faves as well as fashion and homeware
- Sephora: Now with a bricks-and-mortar store in London, Sephora also recently became a MAC stockist in the UK
The top 10 most popular MAC lipstick shades
RRP: $23
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. Plus, it comes in a flattering no-shine matte finish.
RRP: $23
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.
RRP: $23
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.
RRP: $23
A dirty rose color that, like the best eyeshadows for dark skin, is pigmented enough to maintain its similar color on different skin tones.
RRP: $23
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.
RRP: $23
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.
RRP: $23
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.
RRP: $23
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.
RRP: $23
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.
RRP: $23
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.
