For far too long, beauty aisles were built for one shade of “universal.” Women of colour have spent decades mixing, blending, and compromising to find a lipstick that actually celebrates their complexion, not cancel it out. But that era is over. The new generation of beauty isn’t just about inclusivity — it’s about intention. These are the lipsticks that see us, serve us, and slay in every tone. From bold reds to rich berries and nudes that feel like skin, not chalk, here are the shades and brands that were made for us — not just marketed to us.Pat McGrath Labs: The Mother of All LipsticksWhen Pat speaks, we listen. Her LuxeTrance and MatteTrance formulas are creamy, ultra-pigmented, and built for depth. The reds are regal, the browns are rich, and the berries? Iconic.
Must-Have Shade: “Elson 4” — a fiery red that looks divine on deep skin with warm undertones.
Fenty Beauty: The Disruptor That Set the BarRihanna didn’t just launch a beauty brand—she launched a movement. Fenty’s Stunna Lip Paint in “Uncensored” is a true red that flatters every skin tone, no question.
Must-Have Shade: “Unveil” — a decadent brown for soft glam and bold moments alike.
Colé: Beauty Built for MelaninFounded by Diarrha N’Diaye-Mbaye, Ami Colé is designed with melanin in mind. Clean, hydrating, and glow-enhancing, their lip oils and lip tints bring a sheer, buildable vibe that lets your skin shine through.
Must-Have Shade: “Excellence” Lip Treatment Oil — a subtle wash of berry that enhances without overpowering.
Ami Cole Lip Oil
Mented Cosmetics: Nudes That Actually NudgeBuilt on the idea that nude shouldn’t mean beige, Mented crafts nudes that feel natural on brown and Black skin. No ashy undertones. No settling. Just perfection.
Must-Have Shade: “Dope Taupe” — the neutral that feels like your lips, only better.
Mented Dope Taupe
UOMA Beauty: Bold Color, Bigger MissionFounded by Nigerian-born Sharon Chuter, UOMA is high-glam with heritage. Their lipsticks are statement-makers in both pigment and purpose.
Must-Have Shade: “Maya” — a deep terracotta-red that pairs like magic with gold highlighter.
UOMA Maya
Beauty Bakerie: Sweet, But StrongThis Black-owned brand is known for long-lasting formulas and delicious colour stories. Their liquid lipsticks are smudge-proof and selfie-proof.
Must-Have Shade: “Waffle Things” — a moody plum that looks luxe in low light.
Juvia’s Place: Pigment PowerhouseBeloved for bold eyeshadows, Juvia’s lip range brings the same energy. Think high-impact color for high-impact women.
Must-Have Shade: “Toffee” — a warm brown nude perfect for layering or wearing solo.
Juvias Place Toffee
These aren’t just lipsticks. They’re affirmations. They say: you are seen, you are stunning, and you were never too much — the market just wasn’t enough. Until now. The beauty game has changed, and these brands didn’t just make space for women of colour — they built thrones. Wear the shade. Own the moment. Run the file.
