Ever since I was like 13 and wore red lipstick for the first time (and immediately got it all over my braces), I’ve been obsessed with people who can actually rock it without looking like they just ate spaghetti straight from the pot. And for me; and probably you too; the ultimate red lip icon will always be Taylor Swift.
Like seriously, can you even think about red lips without thinking of her? Didn’t think so.
Taylor has made that classic red pout part of her brand. Kind of like how cats are part of her brand. And heartbreak songs. And walking emotionally through rain-soaked streets while staring into the distance. But that red lipstick? That’s the real MVP.
So if you’ve ever caught yourself wondering what lipstick she actually uses (because same), we’re about to fully get into it. Grab your mirror, get comfy, and let’s talk all things Taylor and that iconic lip.
First Off: Does Taylor Even Wear the Same Shade Every Time?
Here’s the thing. I thought she had one secret lipstick that she’s been holding onto since her “Red” album days. Like a secret tube that lives in a crystal vault surrounded by bodyguards or something.
But no. Taylor’s actually tried a few different reds over the years. Some drugstore. Some high-end. All legendary.
Standing in a nice dress, staring at the sunset, and reapplying your lipstick. Just a normal Tuesday, right?
Okay, so maybe she doesn’t stick to one exact formula every single time. But she does have a couple go-to faves, and once you see them, suddenly it’ll make sense why her lips never smudge, feather, or fade; basically witchcraft.
So What Lipstick Does Taylor Swift Wear?
Let’s break it down by brand and moment because duh we care about the details.
1. MAC Cosmetics Retro Matte Lipstick in ‘Ruby Woo’
Literally iconic. Taylor’s mentioned before that ‘Ruby Woo’ is one of her all-time favorites. And I mean, of course it is. It’s cool-toned, matte, and bold in the most “I just wrote a breakup anthem and I look flawless about it” kind of way.
This lipstick is like… drama, but make it polished.
If you’ve never tried ‘Ruby Woo’, here’s the deal:
| Feature | Why It Slays |
|---|---|
| Finish | Super matte |
| Tone | Cool red, blue undertones |
| Staying Power | Hours and hours |
| Transfer proof? | Pretty much! |
| Price Point | Mid-range (not cheap, but not crazy) |
This one is a must-have if you want that Taylor-level confidence. Fair warning though: it’s matte matte. Like Sahara Desert levels of dry, so prep your lips, babes; lip scrub, balm, the whole routine.
2. NARS Velvet Matte Lip Pencil in ‘Dragon Girl’
Okay, this one is just chef’s kiss. Back in a 2014 interview with People mag, Taylor said this was her on-tour go-to. And honestly? I totally get why.
It’s bold, it’s slightly playful, and since it’s a pencil, it gives so much control. Easier to apply when you’re literally in a car or running late for brunch (guilty).
I swipe on red lipstick, and suddenly I feel like the lead character in an indie movie with dramatic lighting.
Also this color is like a slightly lighter red than ‘Ruby Woo’. More like strawberry than cherry, if that makes sense?
| Feature | Why It Rocks |
|---|---|
| Type | Matte pencil |
| Tone | Slightly warmer red |
| Finish | Matte but comfy |
| Bonus Points | Easy to throw on, even without liner |
| Price Point | Slightly bougie, but worth it |
So yeah, ‘Dragon Girl’ is just that girly. Especially if you want to dip into Taylor’s red-lip vibes without going full vintage drama.
Wait; Has She Ever Worn Drugstore Lipstick?
Actually yes. And it’s kind of comforting right? She might have private jets but she also loves that one lipstick you can grab at Target.
A couple of makeup artists who’ve worked on her shoots have mentioned that Revlon’s ‘Certainly Red’ and Maybelline’s iconic reds have been used on her for photo ops.
Especially during her Speak Now and 1989 eras, there were rumors flying around that she occasionally rocked Maybelline Color Sensational lipsticks. And honestly, the shades like ‘Red Revival’? Kind of scream Taylor.
Don’t sleep on drugstore lipsticks, especially if you want Taylor-level beauty on like, college student funds.
| Brand | Shade Used | Vibe Check |
|---|---|---|
| Revlon | Certainly Red | Vintage, classic red |
| Maybelline | Red Revival | Bright, confidence-heavy |
| L’Oréal | Pure Reds | Elegant and French-ish |
How Does She Make It Look So Perfect, Though?
Red lipstick is like… a whole thing. It stains. It bleeds. It gets on your coffee cup and everyone knows it was yours. But somehow, Taylor always looks flawless.
So I did some sleuthing (aka spent 3 hours on TikTok and makeup blogs, you’re welcome).
Turns out there are three major tricks she (and her pros) use:
1. She always uses a lip liner
Literally always. It’s how she keeps that insanely perfect shape. Lining the lips also keeps things from feathering. MAC’s ‘Cherry’ liner? Total match for ‘Ruby Woo’. So basically a duo sent from heaven.
2. She blots and layers
Instead of swiping on one thick layer, makeup artists sometimes press on a little product, blot it, and build up coverage like that. It lasts way longer that way. Also gives a more plush look.
3. She preps first
Dry lips and matte lipstick? Not friends. She exfoliates and moisturizes beforehand. Want a little trick? Use a clean toothbrush and some lip balm to gently scrub your lips before applying red lipstick. Changed my life.
Should You Try Her Favorites?
Honestly… if red lips scare you, start with a sheer formula or a balm stain first. Or try a red gloss and ease into it.
But if you’re ready to go full “All Too Well (10 Minute Version)” energy? Go for the classics.
Here’s a quick Taylor Red Lipstick Starter Pack:
| Look You’re Going For | Lipstick Choice | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Super classic, matte, bold | MAC ‘Ruby Woo’ | OG. One coat is all it takes. |
| Comfortable matte, more modern | NARS ‘Dragon Girl’ | Less drying, easy to apply. |
| Vintage soft glam | Revlon ‘Certainly Red’ | Budget win, still timeless. |
| Bold but low drama | Maybelline ‘Red Revival’ | Great for daily wear. |
| French girl elegance | L’Oréal Paris ‘Pure Reds’ Collection | Slightly more subtle finish. |
Final Thoughts? Red Lips and Main Character Energy
Something about red lipstick just changes your mood. Like suddenly you’re slower when you walk. You smirk more. You check yourself in reflections. It’s a thing.
And Taylor gets that. She’s been wearing her red lipstick like it’s armor, comfort, and confidence all in one little tube. Maybe that’s why we love it so much on her. It’s not just pigment; it says something.
Red lips don’t whisper. They say exactly what they mean.
So hey. If you’re feeling bold, grab ‘Ruby Woo’. If you’re feeling sweet but strong, try ‘Dragon Girl’. And if you’re unsure? Swipe something red on your lips and just see how it makes you feel. You might surprise yourself.
What would Taylor do?
Probably put on lipstick, grab some paper, write about her feelings, and then walk off into a foggy street looking like a high-fashion ghost of your ex’s conscience.
You could totally do that too.
Just maybe skip the heartbreak part, yeah?
