The 10 Best Lip Products to See You Through the Summer Social Season
Words by Verity Clark
The summer social season is a whirlwind of glamorous days out and alfresco soirees. From Henley Royal Regatta and Royal Ascot to Wimbledon, it’s a carousel of riotous fun. And there’s much to think about; as well as securing the perfect outfit, you need your make-up to not only look good but last through multiple conversations and canapés. That’s why our editors have created this definitive guide of lip products to see you through any occasion.
Think the ‘suits everyone’ nude lipstick from Charlotte Tilbury, long-lasting formulas courtesy of Guerlain and a lip balm that will hydrate lips long after the last glass of rosé has been drunk (thank you, Westman Atelier).
So, whether you’re searching for a long-lasting lipstick that stays put all day or a hydrating balm to heal chapped lips, consider this your definitive Harrods guide to smart summer lip choices.
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Best Lip Gloss
Victoria Beckham Beauty Posh Gloss
'90s fashion is having a moment, and while a satin slip dress may not be appropriate for The Royal Enclosure at Royal Ascot, a swipe of lip gloss is. Make a subtle nod to the trend with queen of minimalist chic Victoria Beckham’s non-sticky formula. Choose from standalone shine in muted tones or up the ante with one of the delicately shimmery shades.
Best Nude Lipstick
Charlotte Tilbury Pillow Talk Lipstick
There’s a reason one Pillow Talk product sells every 10 seconds globally, and it’s down to the universally flattering nude-pink shade. Designed to suit multiple skin tones, this ‘is it a neutral, is it a pink?’ lipstick elevates any look without making you look too done. We’d call that game, set and (lipstick) match.
Best Tinted Lip Balm
Westman Atelier HydroBalm Tinted Lipstick
A lip product that delivers both hydration and pigmentation is somewhat of a unicorn in beauty circles. But this nifty hybrid from Westman Atelier manages to achieve just that; expect a decent stamp of colour as well as moisturised lips, thanks to the inclusion of hyaluronic acid.
Best Long-Lasting Lipstick
Guerlain KissKiss Shine Bloom Lipstick
From sipping Champagne at the races to cheering your way through a tennis match, your lipstick needs to withstand many things come summer. Happily, Guerlain’s recently reformulated lipsticks promise even greater staying power – 24 hours' worth in fact.
Best for Everyday Wear
YSL Beauty Loveshine Lipstick
When it comes to an everyday lip essential, comfort, hydration, lasting power and easy application are crucial. YSL Beauty’s Loveshine Lipstick ticks every box, making it a standout staple for daily top-ups. Featuring the shine of a gloss and care of a balm (it’s infused with fig pulp), its pigment-packed, jelly-like texture melts from lipstick to a high-shine oil without any unwanted stickiness.
Best Lip Liner For Defined, Full Lips
Chanel Le Crayon Lèvres Longwear Lip Pencil
The perfect lip liner needs three things: creamy texture, high pigmentation and smooth application. Enter Chanel’s revamped lip pencil, which aces all three. Available in 19 shades, with lipsticks to match, the semi-matte finish is easy to wear and, crucially, stays in place without the need for constant top-ups.
Best Lip Oil
Estée Lauder x DVF InCharge Glossy Lip Gift Set
The past few years have seen lip oils cement their place as a mainstay in any beauty lover’s collection. Why? They're part lip balm, part gloss – what’s not to love? The three new lip oils from Estée Lauder go a step further, with each of the three shades packed with a nourishing concoction of jojoba, sunflower and apricot seed.
Best for UV Protection
Ultra Violette Lil Pout Protectors
No matter how wide the brim of your hat, your lips (and the rest of your face and body) are still susceptible to sun damage. Don’t skimp on the SPF. Instead, make it part of your lip routine. Cue Ultra Violette’s trio of lip balms. Packed with nourishing lanolin, cocoa butter and vitamin E, each balm is infused with SPF 50 for essential UV protection. Small enough to fit in even the tiniest of wedding guest handbags, reapply every two hours for a fully protected pout all day long.














