Step into Spring: Gorgeous nude lipsticks for every skin tone

A nude lip is perfect for a pared-back beauty look coming into spring but finding the right shade can be easier said than done. When it comes to wearing nude lipstick, it’s important to create a particular balance with the rest of your makeup. When done badly, a nude lip can wash out your features, so it’s all about choosing the right colours and finishes to suit your skin tone. The best nudes are sheer and generally have a similar finish to your lips, so nothing too shiny or matte.

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If you’re fair, opt for pink or peachy undertones; if you’re tanned or have darker skin, opt for one with an orange undertone – the key is to make sure the colour isn’t lighter than your skin. For darker skin tones, it should be nude but still pop, so a hint of colour works best. Olive tones can get away with most nudes. Below is a selection of shades that work regardless of your skin tone.

Chanel Rouge Coco Flash Hydrating Sheer Lipshine in Boy, €36

This is a sheer, natural lip tone that always warms up fair skin. The formula is new; a reinvention of the beloved Coco Rouge Shine range and is now infused with properties to nourish and soften the lips. Boy (out March 8) literally suits every skin tone.

Tom Ford Lips & Boys in Flynn, €33

The perfect shade of pink for those with pale skin that are newbies to the world of nude lipstick.

Charlotte Tilbury K.I.S.S.I.N.G in Nude Kate, €30

This ever-so-slightly sheeny lip shade makes eyes instantly brighter and looks best on those with a tan or bronzed glow.

Clinique Chubby Stick Moisturising Lip Colour Balm in Heaping Hazelnut, €20

Pale nude lips are perfect on those with olive skin – take a look at Jennifer Lopez for further proof. This jojoba-oil-packed lip crayon by Clinique is one of the few shades that gives the perfect soft shine and that gorgeous pale pinky nude colour.

Dior Rouge Dior Nude in Twill, €36

This lipstick is the colour of caramel and works perfectly on those with darker skin.

Rimmel London Nude Collection By Kate Moss, €6.99

This collection contains four shades of varied nudes to suit any complexion.

Main photograph: Jason Llyod-Evans