Bold lipstick is making a comeback, as evidenced by recent appearances on the red carpet and in popular media. Amidst the pandemic, many, including celebrity Florence Pugh, shifted from traditional matte lipsticks to tinted balms and glosses. However, at the premiere of her Netflix series "East of Eden," Pugh sported a striking cranberry lip that has reignited interest in more dramatic makeup.
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Following Pugh's bold look, Dakota Johnson showcased dark, vivid lipstick in Taylor Swift’s “Patient Zero” music video and later at the Verity press run. The spike in interest isn’t limited to celebrities; makeup enthusiasts have been engaging with makeup artists on social media, seeking details on shades used by stars, although these are often custom mixes of various products.
Lipstick trends have historically cycled through various styles, with each era reflecting its cultural context. Current data indicates a noticeable rise in searches for terms like “matte lipstick” and “bold lipstick,” with the Spate Popularity Index reporting a nearly 19% increase from September 2025 to August 2026. Additionally, Pinterest's 2026 Beauty Trend Report highlights that searches for “bold lip combo” rose by 121%, suggesting a growing demand for maximalist makeup.
Experts from the beauty industry provide insight into this trend's resurgence. Teny Kureghian from MAC Cosmetics notes that consumers are ready for more expressive makeup as they seek intentionality over effortless options. Hannah Murray of Bobbi Brown points out that the back-and-forth nature of trends showcases shifts driven by cultural changes.
Alexis Androulakis emphasizes the evolution of bold lips, citing recent runway shows that indicate a move towards opaque lip products. This resurgence is characterized by increased use of lip liners, making the application of bold colors more nuanced compared to previous years.
Notable releases, such as Victoria Beckham's new line of demi-matte lipsticks and MAC's relaunch of their Frost line, align with the trend towards vibrant, statement lip colors. Kureghian describes the unique power of a bold lip, stating it can evoke a wide range of emotions and styles.
Babsky, who works with Pugh, notes the organic development of her dramatic lip look, which adapted as the overall makeup evolved. He believes that while bold lips may require confidence, they have the potential to create a striking presence. Makeup artist Kisha Augustine agrees, highlighting how the act of applying bold lipstick carries deeper ritualistic significance, blending personal style with emotional expression.