Browsing the makeup aisle of your favorite grocery or drug store can be intimidating. Especially when there are no samples out – we all know the color that appears on the lip stick bottle does not look the same when applied on your lips. But you’re right to steer clear of the snooty beauty shops; sure they’ll give you a complimentary makeover, but they’ll also give you a guilt trip when you realize how much you spent. So, the key is to know exactly what to look for.

From Rimmel to Revlon, there are tons of cheap options out there. But products that easily wipe off, on your significant others’ check or your wine glass, just don’t cut it, no matter how affordable. No one wants to take several trips to the bathroom in one evening for a simple touch-up. Another lipstick requirement, of course, is color – too bright and you’ll look like a clown, not bright enough and you’ll look like you’re not even trying. So, the shade of red’s gotta be just right.

Here’s Some of Our Top Budget Lipstick Picks:
1000 Kisses Stay on Lip Liner from Rimmel, $3.19
L’Oreal Colour Juice Sheer Lip Gloss, $8.48
Patent Lips Liquid Lipstick from Black Opal, $6.75.Especially good for women of color
Revlon Super Lustrous – Creme Lipstick, $7.00-$8.00
L’Oreal HIP High Intensity Pigments Intensely Moisturizing Lipcolor, $8.46-$10. Especially good for women of color

Who do you turn to for budget lipstick?