How To Pull Off Metallic Lipstick

Move over flat, matte lips. Metallic lipstick is making its comeback — at least, if Kylie Jenner and Colourpop have their way. And if you're worried about rocking this more vibrant trend, fear not. There are plenty of ways to pull off metallic lipstick. Because this time, "metallic" doesn't necessarily just mean "frosted." So if bright and shiny lips aren't quite your thing, there are still other ways to wear this trend in a way that's totally you.

Honestly, one of the best things about metallic lipsticks and glosses is that there are so many ways to combine and layer products to achieve your desired effect. It's not necessarily about finding just one lipstick and leaving it at that (even though the hunt for your HG metallic lipstick is always fun). Regardless of your intensity or color preference, there are tons of ways to find or even create your ideal metallic lip. All you have to do is throw out the idea that doing your lips only requires one or two products — sometimes more is more. (As if we need another excuse to play with makeup.) So whether you're into bright metallics, subdued metallics, or just want the smallest hint of metal, here are eight ways to wear metallic lipstick so the trend works for you and not the other way around.

1. Glossy Metallic

Anastasia Beverly Hills Lipgloss in Bronzed, $16, anastasiabeverlyhills.com

If you prefer your metallic lippy with a high-shine finish, opt for an opaque gloss that will reflect to the moon and back.

2. Matte Metallic

Milani Amore Mattallics Lip Creme, $9, milanicosmetics.com

For the shimmer without the shine, try a matte metallic lipstick. This formula provides the wear of a matte liquid lipstick with the dimension of a metallic one.

3. Traditional Metallic

Too Faced Melted Metal Liquified Metallic Lipstick, $19, toofaced.com

For something perfectly in between, go for a traditional metallic lipstick that won't be too shiny or too flat.

4. Metallic Topper

Jouer Mermaid Long-Wear Lip Topper in Skinny Dip, $16, jouercosmetics.com

Turn any of your favorite lipsticks into a metallic one with a translucent shimmer topper. You can also wear something like this alone to give your natural lips a little added sparkle.

5. Metallic Ombre

NYX Cosmic Metals Lip Cream, $8 each, nyxcosmetics.com

Amp up your metallic lip by bringing another shade into the mix. Especially if you prefer bolder lip looks, try something fun like a pink and orange ombre. Or hey, even a green and grey ombre.

6. Mixing Metallics

Smashbox Always On Liquid Lipstick, $24, smashbox.com

If you want to tone down how metallic a lipstick is, try mixing it with a traditional liquid lipstick. Dab a little bit of each on the back of your hand, mix, and apply with a lip brush for your custom metallic intensity.

7. Layered Metallics

Smith & Cult Lip Lacquer, $22, smithandcult.com

Two layers of shimmer is better than one, right? Try swiping on a translucent glitter gloss over a metallic lipstick. The extra dimensions will create some serious shine.

8. DIY Metallics

MAC Pigment in Rose, $22, maccosmetics.com

Turn any traditional liquid lipstick into a metallic one by pressing some shimmery eyeshadow or pigment on top. After applying your lipstick and before it has time to set, use your finger or a lip brush to gently dab the pigment onto your lips. Apply your topper of choice to the center of your lips for a highlighting effect, or all over your lips for a full-on metallic effect.

Because whatever your style, there are plenty of ways to rock a metallic lip.

Images: Courtesy of Brands