Guide to Gold Lipstick

Telling you that you should consider incorporating a little more gold into your beauty routine is like reminding you to moisturize in winter; it's kind of a no-brainer. But while you've likely got a gold shadow, maybe a liner or a mascara, plus some body powder (or hey, even a bit of glitter for your hair), we'd bet you don't have a gold lipstick or lip gloss in your collection. And it's time to change that.

Why? For one thing, it's so much more than that very '90s version we've been conditioned to think of when we hear "gold" and "lips" in the same sentence (ie Jessica Alba in Honey). There's also the surprise factor--yes, red is great but it's also a bit expected these days. And maybe most importantly, it does what makeup should do--that is, make you feel shiny, sparkly, and special--as good, if not better, as anything out there. (Related: There are lots of reasons you should feel shiny, sparkly, and special that go well beyond makeup. But then, you already knew that.)

The key isn't deciding you're going to give the gold lip a go--because hopefully you're game--but rather, figuring out which product works best for you. That's where we come in: Our editors tested 15 different tubes and came up with our ultimate list of picks. Flip through the gallery to see their favorites, along with a description of each. Then replay that "I am a golden god!" scene from Almost Famous, because you totally are.

Dolce & Gabbana Classic Cream Lipstick in Topaz - $35

Editor: Rebecca Willa Davis, Executive Web Editor

Wear It If: You like your beauty products to look as good off as they do on.

Maybelline Color Elixir by Color Sensational in Glistening Amber - $8.99

Editor: Rebecca Willa Davis, Executive Web Editor

Wear It If: Your lips get super dry in the winter.

Aerin Lipstick in Sequin - $14

Editor: Steff Yotka, Associate Web Editor

Wear It If: You want to add a little shimmer to a bare lip. It's very sheer and goes on super light, perfect for adding a hint of something special.

Mehron Glosstone Pro in Golden Spark - $11.95

Editor: Liza Darwin, Senior Web Editor

Wear It If: You want more glitter, less gloss. It's packed with dense sparkles, but not overly sticky. I wasn't expecting to be into it, but it surprised me.

Make Up For Ever Rouge Intense in Pearly Gold - $20

Editor: Liza Darwin, Senior Web Editor

Wear It If: You want an ombre gold lip. This actually looks great layered with red lipstick, and you can make it as out-there or as subtle as you want.

ELF Super Glossy Lip Shine in Sandy Beaches - $1

Editor: Steff Yotka, Associate Web Editor

Wear It If: You want a early '00s style golden pout--think Beyonce circa Destiny's Child. Bonus points for costing less than a slice of pizza--it's one trend you can afford to test out.

Lancome Color Design in Epic Night - $22

Editor: Steff Yotka, Associate Web Editor

Wear It If: You want to look like a bronzed, beach bombshell. It has an orange-y tone which gives off a summer vibe--although it also looks awesome layered over a dark plum, if you're less sun-kissed and more Lorde-inspired.