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The red lipsticks that stand the test of time.

Pink is professional. Nudes are subtle. Oranges, purples, and creams—all nice. But red lipstick is a shade for any occasion. And in the long history of the powerful color, there are certain red lipstick shades and formulas that have become so iconic, you can probably list them by name. (MAC’s Ruby Woo, Fenty Beauty’s Uncensored, Dior’s 999—you get the picture.) After all, hardcore red lipstick fans can spot the difference between scarlet, burgundy, and true red, and know that the ones that have stood the test of time deserve to be swiped on again and again.

Arguably the most famous red lipstick shade, the semi-matte formula was even spun-off into a version made just for Rihanna called Riri Woo.

An unapologetically bright color that falls somewhere between classic red and pink—it's no wonder Dragon Girl is a favorite of red lipstick queen Taylor Swift.

Rihanna's first red lipstick under her Fenty Beauty label is not only universally flattering, but once you swipe it on, the matte formula will last until you decide to wipe it off at the end of the night.

Hot Mama is a fiery matte red lipstick that pops on all skin tones. Once it dries, this lipstick will not budge until you wash it off at the end of the day. 

Dior's iconic 999 shade has had its fair share of celebrity fans over the years. It helps that it looks just as beautiful on every single skin tone.

Even the lipstick adverse will fall for Shiseido's genuinely weightless true red. Swipe or dab it on, and it feels like you aren't wearing anything at all. 

There are a dozen perfect red shades in Chanel's arsenal—but Pirate is by far the most fun to say.

Although a newer formula than others on this list, once you jump for Gucci's signature red, you'll never look back. The ultra-soft matte color can be blurred on your lips for a just-there red, or layered on for an opaque pop.

Fans of this orange-red lipstick swear it's the best matte formula ever made: Creamy and smooth, never drying, long lasting, and totally scentless.

Beauty Bakerie's waterproof, smudge-proof Matte Lip Whip formula is famous for never budging—even if you do indulge in a literal bowl of cherries.

This pigmented formula is considered the go-to drugstore dupe for so many other designer red lipsticks on this list (we won't name names).

Long before Game of Thrones, the only Fire & Ice we'd know by name is this classic shade of Revlon lipstick (created all the way back in 1952!).

The shoe designer brought his famous red soles to makeup, and the lipstick world hasn't been the same since.

The creamiest and most moisturizing take on a blue-red tone.

Red and gold make a major statement for YSL's take on a crimson.