In the royal family, every detail is thoughtfully curated—from fashion to beauty—and that includes lipstick. While Princess Kate and the late Queen Elizabeth II may have had very different beauty styles, both royals held firm to their trusted lip colour choices, creating beauty signatures that remain iconic today.
The Royal Lipstick Protocol
Lipstick might seem like a small detail in the grand world of royalty, but when you’re constantly under the spotlight, it matters. Royal protocols often encourage senior royals to wear safe, neutral tones, minimizing the risk of smudges or distractions during public appearances. However, not every royal sticks to tradition.
Queen Elizabeth’s Bold Lip Legacy
Queen Elizabeth II was never afraid of making a statement with her lipstick. Known for her radiant pinks and bold reds, the late monarch often opted for shades that stood out—adding a pop of colour to her classic monochrome ensembles.
One of her most iconic lipstick moments came through her collaboration with Clarins, which crafted a custom red lipstick to perfectly match her ceremonial robes. In addition, beauty insiders have confirmed that she was a fan of Elizabeth Arden’s Beautiful Color Lipsticks—a luxurious formula priced around £25 that delivers high-impact colour with a creamy texture.
Princess Kate’s Elegant Approach to Lip Colour
The Princess of Wales, known for her timeless and polished look, prefers a more understated lip. Kate is regularly seen wearing soft pinks and natural nudes, which not only suit her skin tone but also align with royal expectations. Her go-to? The Clarins Natural Lip Perfector in Rose Shimmer (priced at £25 / $30).
Infused with shea butter, this gloss offers just the right hint of shine and colour. Kate was even spotted reapplying it courtside at Wimbledon, demonstrating its role as a staple in her handbag.
According to HELLO! Magazine’s Karen Silas, “In the summer, it’s the perfect hint of colour with a gentle plumping effect. In winter, it’s a go-to for keeping lips soft and nourished—especially for sensitive skin.”
A New Era of Royal Beauty
As modern royals find their voice, they’re also redefining royal beauty. For instance, Lady Kitty Spencer, Princess Diana’s niece, is known to experiment with custom lip blends, often pairing bold tones with glamorous finishes. It’s clear that while traditions remain, royal beauty is evolving—blending heritage with modern flair.
From Queen Elizabeth’s striking reds to Kate Middleton’s soft pink gloss, these lipstick choices reflect more than just personal taste—they tell a story of identity, elegance, and royal responsibility.
