There’s something undeniably chic about a perfectly matte lip. It’s a look that doesn’t seem to go away with trends, exuding confidence and effortlessness. But matte lipsticks, minus these game-light formulations and air-whipped textures? Say hello to the Retro Matte Lipstick—a throwback find in beauty that’s creating huge waves now.
This classic formula paints the lips of Hollywood greats and fashion elites with its luxurious, creamy texture and strong, full-coverage color.
Now, back in a big, big way as it captivates the new generation of makeup fans with its timeless appeal and surprisingly versatile wear.
In this ultimate guide to retro matte lipstick, we take you through the background, its benefits, and a demonstration of how the pros actually do it.
This post will instruct you, whether you are a sabay pro at makeup or just a curious beginner, how to rock the retro matte lip with confidence in no time!
The History of Matte Retro Lipstick
Origins:
- Matte lips have been desired over centuries, tracing back to the time of ancient civilizations.
- The first ones were using natural color and staining ingredients.
- The first commercial matte lipsticks appeared in the 1920s, providing a bold new kind of color that was teamed with waxes and pigments, but that drying effect as well”.
- The sense of style perfectly matched that of flappers—emancipated feminist.
Iconic Moments:
- Matte lipstick was the favorite throughout the decades.
- The 1950s saw Hollywood glamour and matte lips on the icons :
- Marilyn Monroe’s iconic red lip
- Refers to Audrey Hepburn’s sophisticated shade of pink matte
- These celebrities turned the matte lip into an icon of timeless beauty.
Evolution:
- The focus is still around deep color and a non-gloss finish core concept.
- The formula has become very different.
- Squishy polymers and silicones have replaced drying waxes and made them more comfortable and long-wearing.
- Retro matte lipsticks on the market today provide a balance between bold color and wear comfort.
- It’s a perception that has shifted from purely dramatic to a versatile option for both bold and subtle looks.
Why Retro Matte Lipstick?
Long-Lasting Wear:
- Retro matte lipsticks are renowned for their brilliant, lasting ending.
- It forms through a combination of pigments and film-forming ingredients that causes long-lasting color that does not exhibit much smudging or transfer.
- Your lips will perfectly look great for hours and hours of wear.
Bold and Classic Look:
- A perfectly matte lip exudes an irresistible sophistication.
- The rich, opaque color creates a bold statement that instantly elevates your look.
- Get a timeless red or a bold, vampy berry shade filled with Hollywood glamour and all the confidence.
Flexibility:
- Don’t be deceived by the bold reputation!
- Nude or pink shades create a softer look with a lighter layer.
- Its velvety texture allows it to blur to an ombre effect for a casual finish.
- Its versatility makes retro matte lipstick perfect for all kinds of wear, whether from day to day or in formal events.
How to Apply Retro Matte Lipstick Perfectly
It takes a little bit more finesse than slicking on a gloss to rock a flawless retro matte lip. So have no fear! With the proper technique, you’ll channel your inner Hollywood star in no time. Here’s your guide to flawless application:
Preparation is Key:
- Exfoliation would be the first step for prep. Dry, chapped lips do not hold matte lipstick very well. You can give your lips a light exfoliation by using a damp washcloth or lip scrub to slough off dead skin and smooth the canvas.
- Hydrate, hydrate! Matte lipsticks can be extraordinarily dehydrating, so it’s crucial to prep the lips by hydrating them using a lip balm. Apply some, and after absorption, you can continue to the next step.
Application Steps:
Outline with Lip Liner:
Your ultimate best friend for a flawless matte lip is a lip liner. A little tip: choose the same hue as your lipstick or one that is just slightly darker for a discreet plumping effect. Outline lips somewhat outside the curvature of the natural line of your lips to define the shape and prevent bleeding.
Apply Lipstick:
- Now comes the fun part! Here are some tips for smooth, even application:
- Apply your lipstick from the bullet or via a lip brush for added precision.
- Do a light hand and concentrate on building color slowly for more control.
- Opt for a clean and defined outline, especially in the area of your cupid’s bow and the corners of your lips.
Blotting and Setting:
Blotting is your BFF:
When you apply the lipstick, blot your lips gently with a tissue to remove the product residue and help set the lipstick, as this minimizes smudging.
Stage Your Lips (Optional):
Set your lipstick with a light, translucent powder for extra insurance against feathering or fading. Hold a tissue over your lips and dust a light application of translucent powder onto the lips on top of the tissue to set your lips without adding any unwanted color.
Common Mistakes to Avoid:
Over-Applying:
What you need to remember with matte lipstick is that a little goes a long way. There’s not much reason to pile on a ton of product. Again, this can lead your lips to feel cakey and look very uncomfortable.
Neglecting Lip Care:
Even if properly prepped, matte lipsticks can dry. So, just pamper those lips with a good hydrating lip balm all day long to keep them buttery smooth.
Best Retro Matte Lipstick Products
1. High-End Brands: M.A.C Retro Matte Lipstick
Price at time of publish: $23 USD buy from Mac Cosmetics.
This lipstick is a cult favorite in the beauty world, given its rich, wide variety of bold, vivacious colors. The color payoff is excellent, and this lipstick stays like a pro on the lips.
It does feel comfortable on the lips, as matte lipsticks go, and gives an authentic opaque finish. But this could be drying on the lips, so you feel free always to remember to prep your lips with lip balm.
2. High-End Brands: Chanel Rouge Allure Liquid Powder Lipstick
Price at time of publish: $23.99 USD buy from Amazon.
Light on the lips, it adds a magnificent matte result. Very concentrated in color, it delivers an easy glide on the lightweight formula, smooth in delivery with softly scented and velvety lips. —Of course, Chanel Rouge Allure Liquid Powder Lipstick captured the spirit of retro matte with a modern flavor.
Best Drugstore Favorite: Maybelline SuperStay Matte Ink Liquid Lipstick
Price at time of publish: $9.18 to $10.99 USD buy from Amazon, $10.99 USD buy from Maybelline.
MY FAVORITE drugstore product has been a true hit; it is available in so many beautiful shades and gives super-pigmented color with a matte finish. The applicator is also precise, making it easy to line your lips for a flawless look.
And girl, it’s long-wearing—like coffee dates and lunches long-wearing. However, this formula can be pretty drying, so prep your lips with balm beforehand.
Another Drugstore Hit: NYX Soft Matte Lip Cream
Price at time of publish: $6.30 to $7 USD buy from Amazon, $7 USD buy from NYX Cosmetics.
This NYX offering is bound to be another drugstore hit. The creamy formula is applied evenly on the lips before dries to the most acceptable matte finish.
The colors are incredible—anything from everyday nudes to bold reds and plums. The lipstick isn’t that transfer-proof, yet it’s long-wearing and inexpensive.
Looks/Inspiration: Retro Matte Lipstick
Prepare yourselves to be fashion forward as you release your inner style icon with these inspiring retro matte lipstick looks:
Classic Red Lip
- The epitome of retro glamour, there’s something that we simply can’t resist about a red lip.
- Select a blue-red hue that goes well with your skin color.
- Rest a tad outside your natural lip line, helping to define and create fullness in your lips.
- Use a lip brush as needed to give you precision strokes and to achieve full opacity.
- Blot with a tissue and then set with a light dusting of translucent powder for added wear.
Nude and Neutral Tones:
- Do not underestimate the power of a nude or even a neutral matte lip!
- Perfect for everyday wear, these shades offer sophistication and versatility.
- Choose a shade close to your natural lip color for a more barely there look or one deeper for definition.
- Natural finish: Apply a thin layer directly from the bullet for. Precision : Use with a lip brush.
Bold and Unconventional Colors:
- Retro Matte lipsticks are available now in various gorgeous new shades, not just the classics!
- Try a bold color on your lips like a deep plum, rich berry, or even a vampy black.
- Lining your lips with a shade a bit darker than your lipstick just adds a bit more drama.
- Apply confidently, blot to avoid smears.
- Let your bold lip be the star by keeping the rest of your makeup neutral.
Pro Tip:
Complete your retro matte lip with the slightest touch of eyeliner! A good old-fashioned winged liner, or a soft cat-eye, complements the bold sophistication of a matte lip like no other.
Conclusion
It follows then that the retro matte lipstick is indeed beauty’s timelessness personified. From the sophisticated, glamorous Marilyn Monroe to effortlessly chic Audrey Hepburn, this timeless classic was passed on to the lips of these iconic past figures, leaving its indelible mark on fashion and style.
Today, trends resurface in contemporary beauty. They appeal not just because of how bold and classic they give wearers but also because they suit any occasion.
But while we haven’t exactly been stingy with the sections in this guide devoted to the quite natural aesthetic beauty of retro matte lipstick, for many, its history proves another gigantic draw.
Long-lasting wear and bold pigment promise to elevate any makeup look – whether an everyday or special-event situation – so very easily.
Also, the versatility aspect allows for infinite creativity, from the timeless mien of classic red to the subtle elegance of nude tones and the boldness to explore unconventional colors.
Essentially, joining the retro matte lipstick bandwagon is not merely trend-seeking- it is choosing to represent timeless beauty that allows people to depict their idiosyncrasies.
So, be you an absolute lipstick addict or dipping your baby toes in the beauty water world, there’s no need to hesitate before trying out – and having fun with. – the retro matte lipstick possibilities.
Armed with a little bit of knowledge and some savvy techniques and products to keep in your makeup arsenal, you’ll be sure to unleash a more confident and truly glam version of yourself on the world.
FAQS
Its return and exchange policy on Retro Matte Lipstick varies between retailers. Some stores, like The Beauty League and Sparkling offer a 30 day return policy that includes a complete refund as well as free return shipping. The only exception is that Medoget offers a return period of 10 days. After that, exchanges and refunds aren’t feasible.
Most retailers require that the lipstick be brand new and unopened in order to be eligible for return. This will warrant that the lipstick is in its original packaging and is therefore able to be resold.
The time for return varies among retailers. Some provide 30 days of return or more, while some have the opportunity of a return period of 10 days. It is crucial to know the return policy of the store you bought from.
Many retailers offer return shipping if the return is received within the specified timeframe of the return. This permits customers to return products that do not satisfy their expectations.
Most retailers will allow exchanges of the same color or for a different product. But, it is important to know the specific returns policy for the particular retailer in order to warrant you being permitted and within the specific return timeframe.