A useful lipstick shade guide should help you narrow the choice without pretending there is one “correct” colour for a complexion. Depth, undertone and how heavily you apply the product all influence the final look.
The four current Ethique shades below are described using their live product-page wording. Screen colour, lighting and natural lip colour can change how a shade appears, so treat online images as a guide rather than a guarantee.
Three things to compare
Depth
Depth describes how light or deep the colour appears. A blush pink or peach generally reads lighter than a deep berry. Application changes depth too: a light dab can create a softer stain-like result, while several passes create a bolder look.
Undertone
Warm shades lean towards orange, peach, brick or brown. Cool shades lean towards blue, pink or plum. Neutral shades sit between them. Undertone is a description, not a rule about who can wear a colour.
Context
Think about when you will use the lipstick, what colours are already in your wardrobe and whether you prefer a subtle everyday shade or a stronger contrast. The shade you will actually wear is usually the better purchase.
Four current shades to compare
- Ethique Lipstick Snapdragon – Rosy Mauve 8g is described as a neutral-toned rosy mauve with a touch of brown.
- Ethique Lipstick Dahlia – Terracotta Brown 8g is described as a warm brick red with rich brown undertones and can be applied lightly or built up.
- Ethique Lipstick Tulip – Deep Berry 8g is described as a deep berry red with neutral undertones.
- Ethique Lipstick Hibiscus – Vibrant Coral 8g is described as a warm coral blending orange, pink and red.
All four linked products are 8g lipstick formats. Browse more items through Personal Care.
A low-risk way to choose online
- Pick a colour family: pink, mauve, brown-red, berry or coral.
- Decide on depth: light, medium or deep.
- Read the written shade description: it can be more reliable than a single screen image.
- Check several model images: when available, compare how the shade looks across different people and application levels.
- Review ingredients and directions: patch-test where appropriate and discontinue use if irritation occurs.
How to vary one lipstick
A shade can look different depending on application. Dab and blend for a sheerer effect, or build carefully for stronger colour, following the product directions. Pairing with a liner can alter the edge and depth, but it is not essential for everyday use.
Frequently asked questions
Do I have to match lipstick to my undertone?
No. Undertone language is a comparison tool, not a restriction. Personal preference, clothing and application style matter just as much.
Why does lipstick look different on screen?
Lighting, camera processing, display settings and natural lip colour can all affect appearance. Use multiple images and the written shade description.
Can I apply a deep shade lightly?
Many buildable lipsticks can be dabbed on for a softer effect, but follow the product’s instructions and use imagery as a guide.
Choose the colour you will enjoy wearing. Compare the four linked shades, inspect the current model imagery and review the latest product details before adding one to your routine.