It's Indisputable: These Are the Most Iconic Lipsticks in Existence

Shade: Neutral pink

Formula: Matte

Our verdict: Pillow Talk is one of the world's most talked-about and well-known lipstick shades, so, unsurprisingly, a tube is sold every 2 minutes. Charlotte Tilbury's Matte Revolution lipsticks are regarded as one of the best formulas for matte lips, and the Pillow Talk shade itself is considered one of the best neutral pinks out there (and is often a popular lipstick of choice for brides). The original suits my skintone well, leaning neither too pink nor too beige, but it also comes in Pillow Talk Medium, which has more brown undertones to better suit deep complexions. You'll also find it in Fair (with cool undertones to suit fair complexions) and Intense (with moodier, berry undertones), so you can find your best match for you.

Shade: Cool-toned beige

Formula: Matte

Our verdict: Velvet Teddy by MAC was an icon when it launched in 2004, and two decades on, it remains a classic and one of MAC's best-selling lipstick shades. The silky matte formula feels comfortable on the lips, while the deep, cool-toned beige hue has the rare ability to flatter everyone. "Recently, I stumbled upon a very old, borderline expired MAC Velvet Teddy lipstick in the original formula. To my surprise, I was instantly reminded of why I loved it all those years ago," says junior fashion editor, Imani-Nia Francis-Tsolaki. "Paired with my go-to Glossier lip liner and Saie lip gloss, it was the perfect combination."

Shade: A classic blue-red

Finish: Satin

Our verdict: There is nothing chicer than a Chanel lipstick (you'll find every shade is steeped in stories from the fashion house's lore) but Pirate is perhaps its most iconic red. It has a blue undertone (think a cooler-toned red, which also happens to make your teeth look whiter) that drenches lips in a satiny, luminous texture that feels really moisturising. When I want to feel timeless and classy, I always bring out Pirate—it's an elegant lipstick colour that never fails me. I have to talk about the packaging too. The golden lipstick bullet is housed inside a glossy black case that pops open with a satisfying 'click' when you press it. So. Chic.

Shade: A sheer, deep berry

Formula: Sheer satin

Our verdict: Clinique's Black Honey is just as much of an icon as it was when it launched in 1971. "When you slick it on your lips, it transforms into a sheer, rose-tinted glossy veil that suits anyone," says deputy editor, Maxine Eggenberger. "Unlike other lipsticks of the '70s, Black Honey wasn't created to change the colour of your lips; it was developed to bump up your natural lip tone. One slick and it gives my lips a rosy hue. Two, and the shade intensifies. Three, and I'm edging closer to the sultry berry shade I've always longed to wear but felt too dark by way of the densely pigmented lipsticks I'd tried. Black Honey, however, is perfect."

Shade: Warm, bright red

Formula: Velvet matte

Our verdict: Dior's 999 is one of the most iconic luxury red lipsticks around. The name derives from the first two lipsticks launched by Christian Dior, the 9 and 99. The result is a bright red that makes a statement (wallflowers need not apply). The warm red undertone has a hint of blue, which makes it really flattering on any skin tone, too. As for the matte finish? It's like wearing velvet on your lips.

Shade: Brown berry

Formula: Satin

Our verdict: This isn't just any red-brown lipstick, it's actually the exact lipstick that Monica Geller wears in Friends. It's a '90s lipstick through-and-through, with just the right amount of brown and red that makes it feel like a statement without being too much. It's a really great lipstick for brunettes and has a wearble satin finish that feels hydrating on the lips, too.

Shade: Deep red

Formula: Matte liquid lipstick

If you asked me what the best French lipsticks are, I'd without a doubt mention Violette FR's Petal Bouche liquid lipsticks. Inspired by the velvety softness of petals, these liquid lipsticks impart luxurious colour that dries down into a matte, transfer-proof finish. There are three shades to choose from, but my favourite is Cerise Désir, a rich blood-rose that epitomises French-girl beauty.

Shade: Light beige rose

Formula: Matte

Our verdict: "I love a lipstick but none that I use are as iconic as some of my MAC ones (I still use Ruby Woo and Diva!)," says senior fashion & beauty editor for branded content, Rebecca Rhys-Evans. "I think I go back to them time and time again because they’re long-lasting and affordable. I’ve recently also gone back to Honeylove because with the 90s over-lined lips being such a trend, I’ve tried a few neutrals and none can compare in terms of shade. It’s very matte, so I tend to overlay it with a gloss and darker liner," she says. Because this is a light rose, it's a great lipstick colour for blondes.