Legendary Lipsticks: Iconic Formulas & Timeless Shades | Makeup History

The Making of a Lipstick Legend

In the world of makeup and beauty products, few items reach the legendary status of a perfectly formulated lipstick. Lipstick is one of the most ubiquitous makeup products with an extensive history spanning thousands of years across various cultures. And yet, only an elite few lipsticks manage to earn the title of “legendary.” So what sets these lipsticks apart?

Universal Appeal That Stands the Test of Time

Legendary lipsticks share one key trait: they have a universal, widespread appeal that connects with people across cultures, skin tones, ages, and styles. These lipsticks showcase shades that continuously remain on-trend and flattering over decades. A legendary lipstick flatters the widest range of skin tones. For example, universally flattering shades like berry reds, neutral mauves, or pinky nudes have sustained popularity across generations.

Innovative Formulas and Textures

Another hallmark of a legendary lipstick is an innovative, high-performance formula. Legendary lipsticks balance moisture, longevity, and opacity while feeling weightless on the lips. Revolutionary formulas introduce new textures like velvet matte, liquefied vinyl, or weightless lacquers that become beauty innovations. For example, liquid lipsticks that deliver intense color payoff with a lightweight, no-transfer feel have redefined lipstick textures. Similarly, hydrating serums and oils have revolutionized traditional lipstick formulas by boosting moisture.

Iconic Brand Heritage and Values

Legendary lipsticks also share rich brand histories that connect deeply with customers. These lipsticks tell a story through their shade names, packaging design, brand values and more. For example, a brand committed to self-expression and diversity might convey that through an extensive shade range. Or a retro, vintage-inspired brand may connect through nostalgic packaging. By clearly communicating their core values, these brands and their lipstick products earn icon status.

The Definition of a Legend Lipstick

So what exactly makes a lipstick product “legendary”? Based on universally beloved lipsticks over history, a legend lipstick could be defined by the following qualities:

• A perfectly balanced, lightweight formula with intense color payoff
• Moisturizing, smoothing textures that feel comfortable all day
• Universally flattering, on-trend shades suitable for any skin tone
• High-performance “hero” ingredients for improved lip care
• Striking yet functional packaging design
• Connection to positive brand values like self-expression, diversity, inclusion, or heritage
• Pop culture significance – a lipstick shade or moment that sparked major trends
• Decades-long popularity, beloved across generations

Standout Legend Lipsticks Through History

Many iconic and influential lipsticks across makeup history contain some combination of these legendary traits. For example:

• Elizabeth Arden Red Door Red – This pillar red shade has remained continuously in production since 1989. Its blue-toned red is universally flattering. And the luxe gold case is iconic.
• MAC Ruby Woo – Launched in 1999, this matte red delivers super intense color payoff with a completely matte finish. Its lightweight Retro Matte formula revolutionized textures.
• Revlon Super Lustrous – Revlon’s 52-year-old lipstick collection spans every finish and shade. But universally beloved shades like Pink Truffle and Certainly Red qualify as legendary.

What Makes a Lipstick Formula Legendary?

Now that we’ve covered legendary lipstick shades, what about the formulas? As discussed above, lipstick textures have evolved tremendously over the decades. So which types of formulas achieve icon status? Here are a few key examples:

Matte Finish Lipsticks

Matte lipsticks deliver maximum color impact with no shine. Legendary iterations strike the ideal balance between intensified pigment and lightweight, flexible wear. They apply smoothly without dragging and moisturize despite the matte finish. Standouts include MAC Retro Matte, NARS Powermatte, and Sephora Collection Cream Lip Stain Liquid Lipstick.

Liquid Lipsticks

Liquid lipsticks take color intensity even further with thin, liquefied pigments. Legendary liquid lips apply flawlessly in one swipe and quickly dry down transfer-proof. The formula remains flexible to prevent flaking or dryness. Top options include Anastasia Beverly Hills Liquid Lipstick, Maybelline SuperStay 24 and Fenty Beauty Stunna Lip Paint.

Satiny Creams

On the more traditional end, satiny cream lipsticks also achieve icon status thanks to luxe hydrating ingredients. These formulas smooth over lip lines for a plumping effect. Plus, nurturing oils provide a luminous finish. Chanel Rouge Coco Shine, Dior Lip Glow and YSL Volupte Shine belong in this category.

Revolutionary Serums

Serum lipsticks represent the latest generation of revolutionary textures. These lightweight oils deliver sheer washes of color while hydrating lips. Legendary options like Clarins Lip Comfort Oil and Lancôme L’Absolu Rouge Drama Ink provide intense nourishment.

What’s Your Legend Lipstick?

Every makeup wearer likely has personal legend lipsticks – beloved shades that uplift them daily. But on an industry-wide scale, only a rare few lipsticks earn “icon” status. These lipsticks withstand the test of time with their balanced formulas, flattering shades, and aspirational branding. So in your makeup bag, do you have any lipsticks that feel absolutely legendary to you?

FAQs

What shade of red lipstick is considered iconic?

Universally flattering blue-red shades similar to Elizabeth Arden's Red Door Red or MAC's Ruby Woo are considered iconic reds that suit a wide range of skin tones.

What was the first liquid lipstick?

Although earlier versions existed, many credit Stila's Stay All Day Liquid Lipstick launched in 2009 as the first mainstream, highly-pigmented liquid lip formula that achieved widespread popularity and acclaim.

What finish is best for mature lips?

Hydrating cream or serum lipstick finishes are best for mature lips as they smooth over fine lines and prevent accentuating lip lines. Brands like YSL Volupte Shine, Dior Lip Glow and Clarins Lip Comfort Oil are top options.

What makes a lipstick moisturizing?

Lipsticks that contain nourishing oils, butters and waxes like jojoba, olive oil, shea butter and beeswax provide moisture. Stay away from matte lipsticks which can be drying despite their intensity.