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How many of us out there have gone to revamp our makeup collection for a special occasion (or just because it was time), found the perfect find just to end up getting a whiplash from the price alone? While it’s definitely worth it to splurge on some cosmetics, sometimes, the costs just add up! But thankfully, for these types of situations, there’s always an alternative that won’t literally cost you an arm and a leg.
So for today, we’re going to talk about lipsticks! I feel like that’s one beauty product that’s the most mainstream. It can add a pop of color to your face, and when it complements your skin tone, it’s just perfection!
Still, there’s an insane number of lipstick shades out there, and you may very well be overwhelmed by the sheer amount of choices available. So, for this blog post, we’ll be covering five classic shades of lipstick that are a must for any make-up lover! Moreover, I found some pretty similar shades, so whether you’re a savvy spender or a luxe lover, there’s something for you to find. Without further ado, let’s see these lipsticks, and you decide whether to save or splurge!
1- Gorgeous Deep Reds: MAC Ruby Woo vs Maybelline Color Sensational Siren in Scarlet
We’re starting off strong with a tale of reds. I don’t have to say much, I think that we can all agree that you can’t talk about lipsticks without mentioning the iconic red shade we all came to know! Hollywood stars, celebs, boss babes, literally anyone can rock this classic shade. And MAC’s Ruby Woo is the epitome of glam.
With it’s blue-tone, it’s definitely a favorite for many out there, but there’s no need to worry too much about its price. Indeed, Maybelline’s Color Sensational Siren in Scarlet has the same bold hue, minus that hefty price tag! So you can pack a punch with these two lipsticks at your convenience.
Splurge: MAC Retro Matte Ruby Woo ($23.40) Save: Maybelline Color Sensational Siren in Scarlet ($7.49)
2. Hot Rivalry: NARS Dragon Girl vs. Maybelline Red Revival
We’re tackling another red classic shade, but unlike the previous one, this one is sizzling hot! It’s got much deeper hues that are sure to turn heads and with the expensive option and dupe I’ve found, you can do that even on a budget if you want to!
So if you’re going for a fiery look, NARS’ Dragon Girl with its vibrant, matte red, is going to make you exude confidence and charisma. But don’t get it twisted! You won’t compromise on the intensity of that lipstick with yet another lipstick from Maybelline’s Color Sensational line. I promise you that the Red Revival is one to die for, and it’s sure to become one of your favorites!
Splurge: NARS Velvet Matte Lip Pencil Dragon Girl ($27.50) Save: Maybelline Color Sensational Lipstick in Red Revival ($7.49)
3. Soft and Subtle: Charlotte Tilbury’s Pillow Talk vs Rimmel’s Lasting Finish Nude Pink
We got our pick of hot and steamy reds, now we’re checking out our options for softer, pinker lip shades that are romantic and sweet beyond imagination! It’s all about the softness with these dreamy nudes. You get a perfect hint of pink that delivers elegance without missing a bit!
While Pillow Talk at a glance appears to be deeper than Nude Pink, once applied to your lips, both take on a crazily similar hue! Charlotte Tilbury’s Pillow Talk is a dreamy shade that’s definitely worth the splurge, but Rimmel’s Pink also does the job while costing considerably less. A sweet deal that resembles the shade!
Splurge: Charlotte Tilbury Pillow Talk ($31.99) Save: Rimmel Lasting Finish Lipstick in Nude Pink ($9.79)
4. Roses are Red: Indian Rose vs. Rose Velvet
Flower children rejoice! These two pinks are different from the nudes we covered before, but they’re just as perfect for softer make-up looks. These lipsticks have that warm rose hue that’s not overly pink or orange. They both give off a super lustrous lip effect, and your mouth will look like a delicate rose moisturized by delicate pearls of humidity at dawn!
So if you’re looking for a rosy hue that adds sophistication to any look, Tom Ford’s Indian Rose is luxury in a tube! But fear not, Revlon’s Rose Velvet blooms just as beautifully at a fraction of the cost. You can afford the same romantic vibe whether you want to splurge or save!
Splurge: Tom Ford Indian Rose ($58.98) Save: Revlon Super Lustrous Lipstick in Rose Velvet ($9.99)
5. Classic Parisian Shades: Rouge Coco Mademoiselle vs. Fairest Nude
Mesdames and mesdemoiselles, if you’re ready to channel your inner Parisian girl and rock that chic look that exudes so much sophistication, you have to opt for this tender, beige nude lipstick shade! You’ll be rocking that Coco Chanel style with the timeless elegance in a tube that is Rouge Coco Mademoiselle.
But no worries, you can still enjoy a budget-friendly option that captures the essence of sophistication without that hefty designer price tag. Indeed, L’Oréal’s Fairest Nude comes to save the day with its chic color! So, what will you be opting for?
Splurge: Chanel Rouge Coco Mademoiselle ($64.27) Save: L’Oréal Colour Riche Lipcolour in Fairest Nude ($9.99)
Bonus Tips: Lipstick Shades on a Budget
Experiment and Mix and Match
I’m sure that there are some of you who can’t find the dupes I’ve listed, or simply don’t want to buy new lipsticks at the moment. Well, it’s not time yet to kiss that shade goodbye! You should definitely try to layer shades and experiment with different lipstick combinations that you already have so that create that same lip look!
Wait for Sales and Discounts
If you’re set on getting some of the more expensive options, I can still recommend keeping an eye out for promotions and sales! Don’t hesitate too to check different vendors or shops to see if you can snag a deal on your fave products!
Go for Quality instead of Quantity
If you find out that the expensive options are right up your alley, complement your skin tones and work out well for you, don’t hesitate to invest in them. Sometimes, choosing high-quality, expensive items can be more worth it than saving money for a dupe that you hate or doesn’t work out as well! It’s all about testing out things and seeing what is more adequate for yourself since not everyone is the same!
Conclusion: Best Dupes for 5 Expensive Lipsticks
And with that, we’re wrapping up this blog post! Whether you’re in the mood for saving or splurging, these classic lipstick shades have got you covered. Remember, there’s no wrong answer when it comes to finding the lip shade that works for you! Opting for a less expensive option doesn’t mean that it’s of bad quality or less attractive, and same thing goes for more expensive lipsticks! The best lipstick is the one that makes you feel good, no matter its price!
If you’ve ever tried out any of these dupes, don’t hesitate to leave a comment! Let me know too if you’ll be adding any of these gorgeous to your makeup bag this season!
Until next time, stay fabulous!
