The sheer-lipstick trend will see you into spring with 90s edge

As the seasons begin to shift and spring settles in, we naturally start craving a fresher, more lightweight approach to our beauty routines. With the sun lending us a gentle glow, our makeup habits evolve, leaning toward a softer, more effortless kind of glam. Think muted tones and a lightly undone finish that feels ethereal, perfectly complementing the summer dresses beginning to reemerge from the depths of our wardrobes.

A key element of this look lies in the lips, which may explain the current rise of the sheer lipstick trend. A hallmark of 90s-inspired glam, these formulas sit somewhere between a traditional lipstick and a balm, delivering a soft wash of colour rather than a bold, defined statement.

© @yhkayla

Courtesy of its viral resurgence on TikTok, Clinique’s coveted shade Black Honey is once again reigning supreme. A notable precursor to the sheer lipstick trend, the formula delivers a blackberry-tinted hue that glides smoothly onto the lips, adapting subtly to your natural pigment – so don’t be deterred by its deep appearance in the tube.

It imparts just the right hint of colour to enliven the complexion, offering an easy antidote to washed-out lips. The finish feels softly lived-in rather than overly polished, enhancing your natural look.

© Ron Galella Collection via Getty

Other beauty brands have also tapped into the trend, with Victoria Beckham Beauty recently introducing its Posh Lipstick in Shade 2. These sheer formulas combine soft-focus powders, nourishing ingredients, and gel-encapsulated pigments to create a smooth swipe of colour. The textures are lighter than traditional lipsticks, creating a diffused, seamless finish with no harsh edges. It's what I like to think of as an in-between look, that no-makeup makeup vibe.

How to apply sheer lipsticks

What I love most about this trend is how approachable it is; you don’t need MUA-level skills to get it right. The beauty lies in its flexibility – you can be as relaxed and imperfect as you like, thanks to the opaque, forgiving formulas. Shades range from soft pinks and nudes to richer berry and chocolate tones, yet even the deeper hues feel far less intimidating than a traditional matte lipstick. Simply swipe it on and tap it in with your fingers to build the colour to your liking.

Shop the best sheer lipsticks

How we chose:

Performance and personal testimony: The lipsticks chosen are products that our writer personally rates.  

High performance and consistent use: All the picks selected have been used consistently and selected carefully. The products vary, spanning from different luxury brands but are united in the fact that they are all high-performing products. 

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