Remember those intense, overdrawn lips of the ’90s that defined an era? Think Naomi Campbell. Fast forward to today, and we’ve got the revamped version of ombré lips stealing the limelight. Just peek at #ombrélips on TikTok, boasting a jaw-dropping 1.7 billion views. Clearly, the world is captivated by this two-toned lip artistry.

But don’t confuse it with the harshly outlined lips of the past; ombré lips are a whole different ball game, despite their initial semblance. Back in ’95, it was as easy as drawing a bold line around your lipstick. Today’s rendition is about that seamless gradient, a stroke of artistry that draws attention to your lips without demanding a pro’s handiwork.

According to Los Angeles-based makeup maestro Ash K Holm, the possibilities are endless. “You’ve got so much room to play,” she enthuses. Mix and match two or three hues and let your creativity run wild. Holm’s personal favorites? Think neutral browns paired with pinks for that subtle ‘your-lips-but-better’ vibe, or amp it up with bold combos like dark reds and blacks for an outright statement.

Hankering for more inspo? Check out the recent runway spectacles. My top pick: Kim Shui’s fall 2023 showcase, where models rocked striking ombré lips in black and red, accentuating their fresh-faced looks, impossible to ignore in the best way possible.

Feeling eager to create TikTok’s Ombré Lip phenomenon? Here’s your foolproof guide to nailing that flawlessly blended ombré lip every time.

The Ombré Lip How-To

Grab your lip liner and at least two shades of lip color, and if you’re a fan of that glossy finish, don’t forget the lip gloss. New York-based makeup artist Andrea DiSabatino advises prepping your lips to ensure your canvas is as smooth as silk. Begin with a gentle exfoliation, followed by hydration—essential for that flawless application.

Buff away any dry flakes with a favorite lip scrub (my go-to? Fresh Beauty Sugar Lip Polish Exfoliator) and coat your lips with a thin layer of hydrating balm (can’t go wrong with Aquaphor Lip Repair Balm). This step keeps your lips plush without jeopardizing your color game.

Here comes the critical player: the technique. Holm’s approach takes a detour, unlike the myriad TikTok tutorials kicking off with lip lining. She opts to apply two shades from the same color family but with subtle variations—think a creamy tan brown paired with a dusty rose—before diving into the defining liner.

“This method is your ticket to that seamless ombré lip,” Holm emphasizes. Start by tapping the lighter shade at the lip center, then blend in the darker hue from the middle toward the lip edges. “Use your ring finger to gently tap where the two shades meet, creating that soft blend,” advises Holm. (And yes, a lip brush is a solid alternative here too.)

Let’s get those ombré lips-ready, shall we?

Perfecting the Ombré Lip Technique

Once you’ve expertly blended your two lip shades, it’s time to define the natural contours of your lips using a lip liner. Andrea DiSabatino, an advocate for a seamless finish, recommends opting for a lip liner that complements the darker hue of your lipstick. Her personal favorite? The Charlotte Tilbury Lip Cheat. Meanwhile, Ash K Holm, a Buxom Power Line Plumping Lip Liner enthusiast (and Buxom ambassador, might I add), relies on its dual-ended brush for effortless blending.

After tracing your lips, grab your brush or simply use your finger to diffuse the lip liner into the lipstick. “Take your time,” advises Holm. “Patience is key here, ensuring that each shade blends harmoniously for that flawless finish.”

Maintaining this look throughout the day can be challenging, so investing in long-lasting formulas that won’t dry out your lips is crucial. Our top picks include Merit Signature Lip Lightweight Lipstick, Pat McGrath Labs Satin Allure Lipstick, and Jason Wu Beauty Hot Fluff Lipstick.

A layer of clear gloss is your go-to to elevate your ombré lip with some shine. Opt for Fenty Beauty Gloss Bomb Ice Cooling Lip Luminizer or the Tower 28 Beauty ShineOn Lip Jelly Non-Sticky Gloss in Chill for that non-sticky, ultra-lustrous gleam.