It goes without saying that applying color, shine, or texture to the lips is one of the simplest ways to look and feel glamorously put together. It’s minimal effort for maximum impact. Whether you routinely sport a bright shade of fire engine red or prefer to keep it casual with a clear gloss, the summer is the perfect time to stock up on the latest and greatest lip accessories…(lipcessories!). It’s also the easiest way to change things up without breaking the bank.  

To help you navigate the overwhelming number of choices in the lipstick, lip gloss, and lip balm department, I’ve compiled a list of my current favorites and have them organized by category, so you can be sure to differentiate your collection. Get ready to find your new best friend…

Best Everyday: Ilia Lipstick in Funnel of Love, $26

I recently got into Ilia Lipstick and I’m so glad I did. It goes on smooth and lasts for hours. I like to wear this around the office during the week. It gives me just the right amount of color without being too distracting or messy.

Best Balm with SPF: Kiehls’s Scented Lip Balm #1 in Cranberry, $9

I take this baby everywhere. Whether I’m actually going in the sun or climbing into bed for the night, it provides just the right about of moisture to rid my lips of any dryness. It smells lovely too.

Best Gothy Vamp: Kevyn Aucoin Lip Color in Bloodroses, $35

I take any chance I can get to rock a super pigmented dark lip. I love pairing it with a “no makeup” look for nighttime. It’s also the perfect way to spruce up after a long day at the office before you go out for dinner and drinks. It photographs extremely well and will last all night long. What more could you want?

Best Glossy Stain: YSL Rouge Bleus Lumière-Vernis a Levres Glossy Stain in Guilty Coral, $35

If you haven’t tried the YSL stain, please do. The formula truly does last and doesn’t feel sticky or clumpy on your lips! The color is also super pigmented, so it’s great for evenings too. A must-have, in any shade.

Best Nude: Neutrogena MoistureSmooth Color Stick in Warm Caramel, $8.99

Neutrogena never fails to deliver affordable quality, and this Color Stick is no exception. Color sticks are definitely a trend in the beauty world at the moment in both the department stores and drug stores. I’ve tried several different products, but none have come close to Neutrogena’s. You can apply a single coat for a soft sheen or add another coat for concentrated color.

Best Orange is the new Black: Chanel Rouge Allure Intense Long-Wear Lip Colour in Excentrique, $35

Dig Constance Jablonski’s orangey lip? Give this a shot. It’s Chanel, need I say more? Pop this on for a casual or evening look. Consider brights the new nudes. Don’t be afraid to go for it! I also find Chanel shades to be extremely layer-able, so try experimenting by applying a gloss or another lipstick shade on top.

Best Iridescent Gloss: Hourglass Cosmetics Extreme Sheen High Shine Lip Gloss in Origami, $28

This color goes with everything! I’m always a bit hesitant to try out glosses with any kind of shimmery finish, because it doesn’t seem to vibe with my skin tone, but I love this gloss. It’s got just the right amount of sparkle to feel a little edgier than your average gloss.

Best Classic Red: NARS Semi Matte Lipstick in Heat Wave, $26 OR Tom Ford Lip Color in Cherry Lush, $49

NARS and Tom Ford are the go-to brands for reds. Obviously. The matte finishes are breathtaking and bold and perfect for retro-inspired looks. I got my hands on these shades after binge watching Mad Men on Netflix this summer. Betty Draper routinely sports a similar shade, so I just couldn’t resist. If you’re looking save (at least a little), go for the NARS and keep the Tom Ford on your wish list.

Best Lip Mask: Bite Beauty Agave Lip Mask, $26

I picked this up on my way to get my hair colored and I literally couldn’t stop applying it as I sat waiting for my color to set. It feels like you’re coating your lips in a cooling, moisturizing blanket. But a little goes a long way. Also, the packaging is super modern and looks like an oil paint tube. So cute and sleek. 

Best Balm Originally for Dudes: Jack Black Intense Therapy Lip Blam SPF 25 in Natural Mint, $7.50

I picked this up when I was in a hurry one Saturday, and realized it was actually made for men upon searching the brand online later that day. What a fantastic accident this purchase was. The smell is amazing, the texture is nice and light, and the moisturizing effects are on point.

Best Summery Shade: Bobbi Brown Creamy Lip Color in Coral Pink, $26

If you’re looking for something to rock to a summer soirée or concert in the park, look no further. This light and bright coral by Bobbi Brown is flattering on all skin tones and goes with just about any outfit. I highly recommend sporting this shade on the regular this summer, because why not? Take advantage of the fact that brighter is better in the summertime.

Pick up any number of these lip loves and you’ll be ready for whatever summer throws your way, whether it’s another long day at the office, a caravan ride to the Hamptons or one too many glasses of rosé.

Story by Lexi Tollefsen. Constance Jablonski shot by Mar de Flores for Vogue Brazil November 2012.