How to Get the Perfect Rom-Com Lips

Glossy lips will never fade from favor completely, but they’re currently taking a back seat to a super pretty, low glam alternative. We’re talking about rom-com lips, which are essentially a variation on a “your lips but better” approach that gives girlish, soft, and effortlessly natural vibes. Not only do rom com lips look great on everyone, but they’re super easy to recreate. Here’s how to get the look courtesy of celebrity makeup artists.

What Are Rom-Com Lips? 

Rom-com lips are blurred, semi-matte lips in natural hues that draw inspiration from the just-kissed look we often see on actresses in romantic comedies and period dramas, explains celebrity makeup artist Bryan Cantor.

They’re not a complete swap for lip gloss, but people are leaning more into this softened look versus the wet and shiny pout. One big reason why? They’re so much easier to wear. 

“You don’t have to worry about keeping a sharp line like with lip liner, your hair won’t get stuck on them like with gloss, and they are very forgiving as they wear off since they are meant to look natural even when freshly applied,” Cantor explains. 

How to Do Rom-Com Lips in 3 Easy Steps 

Not only are rom-com lips easier to wear throughout the day, but they’re also a cinch to apply. Follow this quick tutorial and you’ll have that soft girlish look in just a few easy minutes. 

Step 1: Make Sure Lips Are Hydrated

Even though the look of rom com lips is matte, you’ll still want a hydrated base. This ensures you get rid of any cracks or flakes, and it makes for a softer, prettier diffusion of color. 

Step 2: Get the Right Lip Product

The kinds of products you need to get this look are varied. “You can use lip liner, cream blush, satin or soft matte lipstick, tinted lip balm, or even products specifically made for creating blurred lips,” Cantor says. “The color of these products should match your natural lip or be slightly deeper than your natural lip color.” There’s a good chance you already have a product in your makeup bag that’ll get the job done.

Step 3: Dab the Color Onto Your Lips

The secret to getting perfect rom com lips? Your fingertips! Instead of harshly drawing lines or swiping on lipstick, the best way to create rom com lips is to use a gentle dabbing or pressing motion for just a hint of color. 

“An easy way to create this look is to dab on lipstick with your fingertip to give just a hint of color,” Cantor suggests. “Another easy way to create this look is to prep your lips with lip balm and then dab cream blush on top of it to smudge the products together.” 

You can use the same cream blush color you used on your cheeks for a more cohesive look. Concentrate the color on the center and blend outward. And Cantor adds that if you choose to use a lip liner first, be sure to smudge it out with your finger after applying to avoid having any sharp lines.