Taylor Swift’s Red Lipstick Through the Eras: A Comprehensive Guide to Her Iconic Look

Introduction to Taylor Swift’s Signature Red Lip

Taylor Swift’s red lipstick is more than just a makeup choice—it’s a cultural phenomenon. From her early days as a country starlet to her global pop dominance, that bold crimson pout has become a defining feature of her aesthetic. It’s referenced in her lyrics, celebrated by Swifties, and envied by beauty enthusiasts worldwide. But what red lipsticks has Taylor Swift worn through her musical eras? In this article, we’ll dive deep into the shades, brands, and stories behind her iconic red lip, era by era, while offering practical tips for recreating her look.

Swift’s red lip journey began in 2009, and since then, it’s evolved alongside her music and style. Whether she’s belting out “Love Story” or cheering for Travis Kelce at a Chiefs game, her lipstick remains flawless—rain, shine, or post-game smooch. Let’s explore the lipsticks that have defined each of her musical eras, from her country roots to her latest album, The Life of a Showgirl.

The Origin of Taylor Swift’s Red Lip

Taylor Swift wasn’t always synonymous with red lipstick. During her Debut era, she favored nude lips and smoky eyes, reflecting her youthful, country-inspired vibe. The shift to red began in 2009 during an Allure magazine cover shoot, where makeup artist Gucci Westman introduced her to the bold hue. Westman had to get permission from Taylor’s mom, Andrea, because her management insisted, “Taylor doesn’t do red.” Westman’s response? “Well, Taylor needs to try red.” And so, a legacy was born.

This pivotal moment sparked a love affair with red lipstick that would define Swift’s image. By the time she hit the Fearless tour, red lips were a staple, and fans began associating the look with her evolving persona.

Era-by-Era Breakdown of Taylor Swift’s Red Lipsticks

Each of Taylor Swift’s musical eras—marked by distinct albums and aesthetics—has featured a unique take on her signature red lip. Below, we’ll explore the lipsticks she’s worn, based on confirmed reports, makeup artist insights, and fan speculation, while highlighting how to recreate her look.

Fearless Era (2008–2010): The Strawberry Red Start

In the Fearless era, Taylor’s red lip was youthful and vibrant, complementing her sparkly dresses and country-pop charm. Her first documented red shade was a pinkish strawberry red, seen during her Fearless tour performances. While the exact product remains unconfirmed, makeup experts suggest it was likely a bright, warm-toned red with a creamy finish.

This era’s red lip was approachable and playful, perfect for a young artist breaking into the mainstream. Fans looking to recreate this look can opt for a budget-friendly option like Maybelline Color Sensational Lipstick in Red Revolution, which offers a similar vibrant, warm red.

Speak Now Era (2010–2012): Romantic and Dreamy Reds

The Speak Now era saw Taylor embrace a more romantic, fairy-tale aesthetic, and her red lip evolved into a softer, more luminous shade. Makeup artist Lorrie Turk, who began working with Swift during this time, likely used a creamy, blue-based red to match her ethereal gowns. A rumored favorite is MAC Retro Matte Lipstick in Ruby Woo, a universally flattering blue-red that Swift later confirmed she loved in a 2015 People interview.

This shade’s matte finish and staying power made it ideal for long performances. For a Speak Now-inspired look, pair Ruby Woo with a light lip liner for precision.

Red Era (2012–2014): The Classic Red Lip Reigns

The Red era was a turning point for Taylor’s image and her lipstick game. Her red lip became bolder and more defined, mirroring the album’s emotional intensity. Swift herself named NARS Velvet Matte Lip Pencil in Dragon Girl as a go-to in a 2014 MTV interview, notably wearing it to the 2014 Met Gala alongside then-BFF Karlie Kloss.

Dragon Girl, a vivid siren red, became iconic for its rich pigment and long wear. Fans can find it reformulated as NARS Powermatte High-Intensity Lip Pencil in Dragon Girl, which offers the same bold payoff.

1989 Era (2014–2016): Pop Star Perfection

As Taylor transitioned to pop with 1989, her red lip became sleeker and more polished, often paired with sharp winged eyeliner. She continued to favor NARS Dragon Girl, but also experimented with brighter, cherry-red shades. Another confirmed pick from this era is Chanel Rouge Allure Lipstick in Pirate, spotted on the November 2013 InStyle cover. This luminous, blue-based red added a touch of glamour to her pop-star persona.

To channel 1989’s vibe, try a high-pigment liquid lipstick like Sephora Cream Lip Stain in Always Red, which offers a vibrant, long-lasting finish.

Reputation Era (2017–2018): Dark and Edgy Burgundies

The Reputation era brought a dramatic shift, with Taylor embracing a darker, edgier aesthetic. Her red lip took on deeper, moodier tones, often veering into burgundy territory. While her exact shade was a custom mix, beauty editors suggest Fenty Beauty Stunna Lip Paint in Uncensored as a close match for its brown-plum undertones.

This era’s lip was about rebellion and intensity. For a similar vibe, use a deep red like Pat McGrath Labs MatteTrance Lipstick in Forbidden Love for a bold, velvety finish.

Lover Era (2019–2020): Playful and Pink-Toned Reds

Lover was all about pastel colors and romance, and Taylor’s red lip softened into brighter, pinker reds. While no specific shade was confirmed, makeup artist Lorrie Turk has praised Patrick Ta Major Beauty Headlines Lipstick in That’s Why She’s Late as a favorite, likely used during this era for its warm, coral-red hue.

This shade’s creamy texture suits the Lover aesthetic. Try Rare Beauty Lip Soufflé Matte Lip Cream in Inspire for a budget-friendly, hydrating alternative.

Folklore and Evermore Eras (2020–2021): Subtle and Rustic Reds

The Folklore and Evermore eras leaned into a folksy, understated vibe, and Taylor’s red lip became more muted. She often opted for soft, brick-red shades that complemented her cozy cardigans and earthy tones. A rumored pick is Lisa Eldridge True Velvet Lipstick in Velvet Ribbon, a rich, warm red with a velvety finish.

For a Folklore-inspired look, choose a matte lipstick with warm undertones, like Revlon ColorStay Suede Ink Lipstick in Bread Winner, for a natural yet bold effect.

Midnights Era (2022–2023): Bejeweled and Bold

The Midnights era brought Taylor’s red lip back to center stage with a glamorous, high-shine twist. Makeup artist Pat McGrath confirmed that Swift wore Pat McGrath Labs LiquiLUST Legendary Wear Matte Lipstick in Elson 4 for the “Bejeweled” music video, a vivid blue-red that became a fan favorite for its smudge-proof, rain-resistant formula.

Elson 4’s long-lasting matte finish was perfect for the Eras Tour’s demanding performances. Pair it with Pat McGrath PermaGel Ultra Lip Pencil in Deep Dive for the full “Taylor-Made” effect.

The Tortured Poets Department Era (2024): Poetic and Precise

For The Tortured Poets Department, Taylor’s red lip was sharp and precise, complementing her introspective, literary aesthetic. While no specific shade was confirmed, fans speculate she continued using Pat McGrath Labs LiquiLUST in Elson 4, given its proven durability during the Eras Tour.

To recreate this look, opt for a liquid lipstick with a crisp applicator, like Stila Stay All Day Liquid Lipstick in Beso, for a bold, defined pout.

The Life of a Showgirl Era (2025): A Fiery New Chapter

Taylor’s latest era, The Life of a Showgirl, kicked off with a surprising twist: an orange-red lipstick for her New Heights podcast appearance. Her makeup artist, Lorrie Turk, confirmed she wore NARS The Original Lipstick in Morocco, a warm cinnamon-red with a matte finish.

This shade’s vibrant, fiery tone suits the era’s bold, theatrical vibe. For a similar look, try NARS Air Matte Lip Color in Morocco (if available) or MAC Lady Danger for a comparable orange-red.

Comparison of Taylor Swift’s Favorite Red Lipsticks

To help you choose the perfect red lipstick for your Swift-inspired look, here’s a comparison of her most iconic shades:

Pros and Cons of Taylor Swift’s Go-To Lipsticks

Here’s a quick look at the strengths and weaknesses of some of Taylor’s favorite lipsticks:

MAC Retro Matte Lipstick in Ruby Woo

• Pros: Universally flattering, long-lasting, iconic blue-red shade.
• Cons: Can feel drying without lip prep; requires precise application.

NARS Powermatte Lip Pencil in Dragon Girl

• Pros: Vibrant color, easy pencil application, enriched with vitamin E.
• Cons: Slightly less opaque than liquid formulas; may need reapplication.

Pat McGrath Labs LiquiLUST in Elson 4

• Pros: Smudge-proof, rain-resistant, vibrant blue-red, comfortable wear.
• Cons: Frequently sold out; higher price point.

Chanel Rouge Allure in Pirate

• Pros: Luxurious satin finish, bold color payoff, hydrating formula.
• Cons: Premium price; less long-wearing than matte options.

How to Recreate Taylor Swift’s Red Lip Look

Want to channel Taylor’s iconic red lip? Follow these steps for a smudge-proof, Swift-worthy pout:

1. Prep Your Lips: Exfoliate with a lip scrub and hydrate with a balm like Laneige Lip Sleeping Mask.
2. Line with Precision: Use a lip liner like Pat McGrath PermaGel Ultra Lip Pencil in Deep Dive to define your cupid’s bow.
3. Apply Lipstick: Choose a long-wear formula like Pat McGrath LiquiLUST in Elson 4 for vibrant color.
4. Set for Longevity: Dust translucent powder over your lips to lock in the color, as Pat McGrath recommends.
5. Clean Up Edges: Use a Q-tip with micellar water for crisp lines, per makeup artist Julie Niesen’s advice.

For budget-conscious Swifties, try Maybelline SuperStay Matte Ink in Pioneer for a long-lasting red that rivals high-end formulas.

People Also Ask (PAA)

Here are answers to common questions about Taylor Swift’s red lipstick, sourced from Google’s PAA:

What red lipstick does Taylor Swift wear?

Taylor Swift has worn several red lipsticks, including Pat McGrath Labs LiquiLUST in Elson 4 for the Eras Tour and “Bejeweled” video, MAC Ruby Woo, and NARS Dragon Girl. Her latest favorite is NARS Morocco for the The Life of a Showgirl era.

How does Taylor Swift’s lipstick stay on during performances?

Taylor uses long-wear, smudge-proof formulas like Pat McGrath LiquiLUST, which is silicon-based and waterproof. Setting with powder and precise application also help.

Where can I buy Taylor Swift’s red lipstick?

You can find her favorites at Sephora (Pat McGrath, NARS), MAC Cosmetics (Ruby Woo), or Nordstrom (Chanel). Budget dupes are available at Walmart or Target.

Does Taylor Swift wear Rare Beauty lipstick?

While unconfirmed, fans speculate she might wear Rare Beauty Lip Soufflé in Transform, a close match to Elson 4, due to her friendship with Selena Gomez.

FAQ Section

What is the exact shade of Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour lipstick?

It’s Pat McGrath Labs LiquiLUST Legendary Wear Matte Lipstick in Elson 4, confirmed by Pat McGrath for the “Bejeweled” video and rumored for the tour.

Can I find a budget dupe for Taylor’s red lipstick?

Yes! Maybelline Color Sensational in Red For Me is a dupe for MAC Ruby Woo, and Revlon ColorStay Suede Ink in Bread Winner mimics softer reds from her Folklore era.

Why does Taylor Swift always wear red lipstick?

Taylor’s red lip began in 2009 with Gucci Westman and became her signature, symbolizing confidence and aligning with her lyrics like “red lip, classic thing that you like” from “Style.”

How do I make red lipstick last like Taylor’s?

Prep with a lip scrub, use a long-wear formula like Pat McGrath LiquiLUST, and set with translucent powder. Clean edges with micellar water for precision.

Is Taylor Swift’s lipstick kiss-proof?

Yes, shades like Pat McGrath LiquiLUST in Elson 4 are smudge-proof, lasting through performances and kisses, though they may transfer slightly during eating.

Where to Shop Taylor Swift’s Red Lipsticks

• Sephora: Stocks Pat McGrath Labs, NARS, and Fenty Beauty. Check for Elson 4 restocks or Dragon Girl.
• MAC Cosmetics: Find Ruby Woo online or in-store for $22.
• Nordstrom: Offers Chanel Rouge Allure in Pirate and other luxury brands.
• Walmart/Target: Budget-friendly dupes like Maybelline and Revlon.
• Pat McGrath Labs: Direct source for the “Taylor-Made” Lip Kit (if restocked).

Conclusion: Embracing Your Inner Swiftie

Taylor Swift’s red lipstick isn’t just makeup—it’s a statement of confidence, resilience, and timeless style. From the strawberry reds of Fearless to the fiery orange-red of The Life of a Showgirl, her lip choices reflect her evolving artistry. Whether you’re a die-hard Swiftie or a beauty enthusiast, recreating her look is about finding a shade that makes you feel bold and unstoppable.

So, grab a tube of MAC Ruby Woo or Pat McGrath Elson 4, channel your favorite era, and let your lips do the talking. As Taylor sings in “Style,” it’s all about that “red lip, classic thing that you like.” What’s your go-to red shade? Share in the comments and let’s keep the Swiftie beauty conversation going!

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