I’m Allergic to Tackiness—15 Glitter Lipsticks That Meet My High Standards

There are two types of people in the world: those that love glitter and those who despise it. Personally, I’m a huge fan and have been for as long as I can remember. That said, I do understand why some don’t like to work with glitter when it comes to makeup. Fallout can be downright annoying (think eye shadow) and removing it can be a pain as well. Luckily, there are a wealth of makeup options formulated to dispel all the things we’ve grown to hate about glitter, especially in the lipstick genre. Oh, and if you think shimmering lips are tacky, think again!

If you love the look of shiny lips like I do and want something a little more elevated than your usual lip gloss, glitter lipstick can be a fun tool to up the glamour for the holidays, a special occasion, or just because you feel like it. So where does one find a glitter lipstick that looks chic (not tacky) and actually feels smooth and luxurious on the lips? Well, that’s where I come in. I wrangled 15 options that range from minimal to full-on “I came to celebrate” vibe. Keep scrolling to get a glittery glimpse of all of the best options that actually meet my high makeup standards. 

Lips, eyes, face: this product can do it all. The award-winning, waterproof cream pigment comes in 17 metallic hues and can stay put for up to 24 hours.

Offered in two bold shades—Jane Rust (red with brown undertones) and Devotion (a rich red with neutral orange tones), this creamy long-wear lipstick formula gives “glitter” without overdoing it. And the metallic pink Art Deco case adds an extra layer of luxury we’d expect from Gucci. 

At first swipe across my lips, the matte yet creamy and ever so slightly shimmery red lip color of this limited-edition number from Hermès reminds me of a special occasion. The metallic finish is subtle yet noticeable. If you have naturally dark lips like mine, I recommend lining the lips with a red pencil before applying the lip color. 

Pat McGrath knows how to build out glamour, especially via lip color. Formulated with hydrating and antioxidant-rich Brazil nut oil, this lipstick offers a range of color options from glittery golds to rebel reds with pearlized pigments at the helm that offer a shimmer finish that shines brightly no matter the lighting.

If mattes aren’t your go-to formula, you’ll enjoy this dark pink formula infused with gold shimmers. The liquid lipstick is made with a blend of oils and shea butter. You may think this means a sticky formula that doesn’t stay put. But, nope, this is formulated to stand up to the long-wear test. 

If you’re looking for a best-in-class lipstick that has glitter but isn’t as bold in the color arena, look no further than this stunning shade of glimmering nude from Tom Ford.

To get blingy with this frosty gold lippie, MAC recommends prepping your lips with a primer pre-application.

Though this is a gloss, it delivers in the color payoff department. Infused with argan oil, vitamin E, and olive oil, the lips are nourished, while the high pigment offers stunning metallic color. 

Does a more luxe or stunning gift (for yourself or a loved one) even exist? This brand new glitter lipstick from Chantecaille is infused with pearl and gives the prettiest, light-cathching payoff. Obsessed.

For a true glitter finish, you’ll love this satin texture formula made with glitter flecks that won’t feel rough on the lips. Best of all, it comes in six shades ranging from nude to ruby red. 

We love this long-lasting liquid formula, but we have some news: it’s been discontinued. So grab three metallic hues in copper, beige, and red while you can. 

Drugstore options that deliver are my absolute fave. With a formula that slides on metallic and does a dry-down magic trick by switching to a glitter finish, adding this to your cart for your next special occasion or full glam moment is a budget-friendly no-brainer. 

Not sure if you want your lips or cheeks (or both) to sparkle, no problem. Valentino’s got you covered with a universal lip and face glitter that includes an embedded applicator for an easy breezy application. For lips, apply the Dreamdust on top of lipstick using the makeup brush or fingertips and blend until you reach your desired sparkle. 

With an eight-color range (my favorite is Gospel Fiction), this long-lasting, waterproof, full-coverage lip formula truly brings the bling but without any unwanted fallout. 

This shimmering burnt orange shade infused with specks of copper and bronze glitter will make an excellent lip color for deep skin tones. Add it to your collection on days when you want to switch up from your signature red.

Up next, Dark Circles? The Best Eye Creams All Have This Circulation-Boosting Ingredient