We've seen some crazy beauty trends as of late: rainbow hair, beard accessories, even galaxy freckles. But if there's one we're super-stoked to try, it's smoky lips. A perfect combo of two of our longtime favorite staples — smoky eyes and ombré lips — this sultry, unexpected look has us collectively cheering for fall weather.
What makes it so cool? Well, the smoky lip has this majestic ability to transform a boring nude or pink into an absolute smoke show — and it's everything we never knew we needed. Plus, long gone are the days of needing an army of products to create that sexy, diffused effect. In fact, brands are coming out with dual-packed, cooler-than-ever formulas that make it even easier to achieve than before.
If you're a bit lazy, short on time, or can't help but geek out over new beauty innovations, we know you'll snatch up these smoky lipsticks in a heartbeat.
This dual-toned lipstick gives you loads of dimension — and cuts your application time in half. For a softer effect, swipe it on straight from the tube, then use a dense shading brush dipped in clear balm to blend.
Benefit They're Real! Big Sexy Lipstick Set, $29, available at Benefit.
Now this is our kind of lip kit. In it, you'll find one soft-pink hue and one shiny, shimmery black — called Black Lace Rabbit, because apparently it wasn't already sexy enough. Apply two coats of the former, then layer the darker shade on top to give it a sultry hit of smoke.
Lipstick Queen Smokey Lip Kit, $35, available at Ulta Beauty.
Not quite sure you're ready to drop dough on this trend? Use a lipstick you already have, then blend with your fingertips. Or do what we do: Choose a product with a smudging pen already included, like this two-in-one.
Maybelline Lip Studio Colorblur Cream Matte Pencil & Smudger, $8.99, available at Maybelline.
This dual-toned formula is like a liner and lipstick in one — with a twist. Instead of lining the perimeter of the lips in a darker shade, it actually gives the appearance of a smaller pout with the deeper color on the inside. Use your finger to smooth out the lines, so the two colors blend seamlessly. Laneige has yet to release these in the U.S., but you can still snag it online.
Laneige Two Tone Lip Bar, $34, available at Sephora.
For the perfect ombré look, try this: Fill in 70% of your lips with the liner. Then, use a lip brush to spread the lipstick onto your mouth. The brush ensures a subtle faded effect that's not too perfect — but sure is sexy.
Nyx Ombre Lip Duo, $11.99, available at Ulta Beauty.
Like this post? There's more. Get tons of beauty tips, tutorials, and news on the Refinery29 Beauty Facebook page. Like us on Facebook — we'll see you there!
Like what you see? How about some more R29 goodness, right here?
23 Weird Blush Shades That Actually Look Amazing On You