Curated by Claudia Shannon / Research Scientist / ishonest

When it comes to makeup, there’s perhaps nothing that can transform an everyday look into a goth one like black lipstick can. Last month, Little Mix's Jade Thirlwall wore black lipstick with a black hoodie and Kendall Jenner sported the look with a black wig for Vogue Spain. This week, Travis Barker got a tattoo of black lipstick (Kourtney’s lips of course) to cover up a tattoo of his ex-wife's name, confirming black lipstick as relevant again. ishonest’s own most recent cover shoot features Lily Collins pouting in a few different black-tinged lip colors.

As the darkest of all possible lipstick shades, black lipstick can be intimidating and easy to mess up. You’re going to want to make sure your lips are exfoliated, moisturized, and neatly lined before even applying. It’s also why picking the right formula for you is important to achieve a clean, bold look. Here are the best black lipsticks you’re going to want to try this sullen season.

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Best Black Lipsticks 2021

The One For Beginners

In a shade aptly named “Alien”, NYX’s soft matte black lipstick is perfect for beginners in a classic tube and at a low price point.

The Easy Lip Stain

It’s easy to get an all-over opaque application of this cream lip color in just a swipe. Plus, the applicator makes it easy to get a precise shape sans liner.

The Fancy One

Gucci’s take on goth lipstick has a satin finish that makes it look extra luxe, as does the chic gold packaging.

The Super Long-lasting One

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Leave it to Rihanna to create a weightless, extra long-wearing, liquid lipstick in a bold pigment that will surely turn heads.

The Multipurpose One

Why stop at black lips? You can use this buildable, multi-use formula on the lips and eyes for a wickedly cool full makeup look.

The Sheer One

Dip a toe into the trend with an obsidian lip gloss. On bare lips it looks like a moody plum shade, but you can build intensity with more swipes. Or layer it on top of any lipstick to turn any shade a touch more goth.

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