Look at any photo of The Duchess of Sussex and you'll see her makeup has three major components: glowing skin, strong brows, and soft, neutral lips. Although she likes to take risks with her closet (read: bare legs, pantsuits, and blazer dresses), the new royal keeps things particularly simple when it comes to beauty. Meghan Markle's favorite lipstick shades are anything but bold — and with good reason.
Markle's makeup artist, Daniel Martin, who was also responsible for her wedding day glam, says you'll never catch the Duchess of Sussex veering away from neutral, nude-colored lipsticks. “The one time she did a red lip, she just didn’t feel comfortable in it," he told People. "She likes to talk and she’s not a fussy person, so she doesn’t want to have to worry about anything."
Although it's unlikely Markle will show up to an event wearing a red or berry lip, lipstick still remains an integral part of her day-to-day aesthetic. From mattes to glosses and mauves to beiges, Markle has a wheelhouse of nude lipsticks she relies on time and time again.
Case in point: Last week, Markle was photographed wearing a satin, nude lip in London at the WellChild Awards. And during her first official visit to Ireland with Prince Harry, Markle opted for a glossy, natural finish (paired with her usual, low bun and a bold middle part).
It may come as a surprise that Meghan is often responsible for her own makeup at royal engagements — the Duchess of Sussex likes to keep things quick and practical, says Martin. Considering Markle and Prince Harry will head to Tonga, Fiji, and New Zealand in October, it makes sense that the royal opts for a simple beauty routine throughout her busiest weeks.
Looking to channel Markle? Good news: Regardless of your skillset, nude lipstick is one of the easiest shades to experiment with. After all, the subdued shade makes it possible to skip liner all together and even (dare I say it) apply and reapply without a mirror.
If you're ready to follow Markle's lead, The Zoe Report rounded up the best neutral lipsticks to try right now — including soft, baby pinks, rich mauves, and more. Ahead, seven royal-approved shades that should be on your radar for fall.