MAC Cosmetics is known for its wide range of lipstick shades, with colors to suit every skin tone and style. One of their most popular shades is MAC Chili, a rich red-orange hue that packs a punch of color. But with so many red lipstick options on the market, what exactly sets MAC Chili apart? Read on to find out everything you need to know about this iconic lip color.
An Overview of MAC Chili Lipstick
MAC Chili is a Matte finish lipstick that was first launched in 2013 as part of the RETRO Matte collection. It’s known for its blue-red base and orange undertones, resulting in a bold, sultry color that flatters a wide variety of complexions.
This lipstick goes on opaque in one swipe and has a matte, velvety finish that stays put for hours. The formula is highly pigmented and contains conditioning ingredients like vitamin E and nourishing emollients to avoid drying out the lips. It has a creamy, lightweight texture that applies smoothly without dragging.
Chili is part of MAC’s permanent lipstick lineup and retails for $19. It’s encased in MAC’s iconic black bullet tube with silver accents. The shade is versatile enough to transition from day to night and can be worn casually or for a stand-out evening look.
The Exact Color of MAC Chili Lipstick
So what exactly is the color of MAC Chili? With so many shades described as “red” or “orange,” it can be hard to pinpoint the exact hue.
MAC Chili is best described as a bold, blue-toned red with strong orange undertones. It’s not a pure fire engine red, nor is it straight orange – it’s a hybrid of the two. The blue base gives it a cooler, more vibrant tone than a classic warm red. When applied, it comes across as a bright, attention-grabbing reddish-orange.
| Color Family | Red |
|---|---|
| Primary Undertones | Orange |
| Secondary Undertones | Blue |
| Finish | Matte |
| Opacity | Opaque |
With its blue-red base, MAC Chili lipstick has more of a ruby tone compared to a warm, rusty red. The orange notes give it vibrancy and fruitedness. Combined together, these undertones create a bright cherry-coral color.
How MAC Chili Looks on Different Skin Tones
With makeup, how a color pulls on the skin depends greatly on your complexion and undertones. Here’s a breakdown of how MAC Chili wears on different skin tones:
Light to Medium Skin
On fair to medium skin tones with pink, peach or neutral undertones, MAC Chili shows up as a vivid cherry red-orange. The blue tones lend an added boost of color payoff. This is a bold lip look, but still flattering.
Medium Tan to Deep Skin
Those with medium tan to deep skin often have strong yellow, golden or olive undertones. MAC Chili takes on a deeper, spicier look on these complexions. The orange in the lipstick stands out more, resulting in a dramatic burnt orange or coppery terracotta shade.
Cool Undertones
For those with cool undertones (think pink, red or blue tones), MAC Chili veers slightly more red or fuchsia. The blue tones in the lipstick enhance other cool notes in the complexion. This creates a bold blue-toned red lip that flatters and energizes the face.
Warm Undertones
On warm undertones like peach, yellow or golden, the orange in MAC Chili is accentuated. This gives the lipstick more of a coral, ginger or burnt sienna tone. For those who suit warm tones, Chili provides a striking and lively orange-leaning red.
How MAC Chili Compares to Similar Shades
MAC offers many reds and oranges, so how does Chili compare? Here’s an overview:
MAC Chili vs. Lady Danger
Lady Danger is brighter and leans more orange. Chili has a more balanced red-orange look. Lady Danger also has a amplified finish, so it’s more opaque and glossy.
MAC Chili vs. Morange
Morange is a bold burnt orange Matte lipstick. Chili is subtler and more wearable for everyday. Morange has a terra cotta look compared to Chili’s cherry tone.
MAC Chili vs. Russian Red
Russian Red is MAC’s iconic pure blue-toned red. Chili is brighter and more orange-based in comparison. Russian Red has a creamy Satin finish rather than Chili’s Matte velvet texture.
MAC Chili vs. Ruby Woo
Ruby Woo is MAC’s #1 bestselling red lipstick. Like Chili, it’s a Matte with blue tones. But Ruby Woo lacks the orange undertones, so it’s not as warm-toned. It’s a true, cool red compared to Chili’s orangey-red.
Pairing Eye and Face Makeup with MAC Chili
A bold lip like MAC Chili commands attention, so it’s best paired with more subtle eye and face makeup. Keep the eyes neutral with beige, brown or black smoky eyeshadows. Add definition with black liner and mascara. Fill in brows lightly. Bronze, contour and highlight the complexion to add dimension.
MAC Chili can also be beautifully paired with a copper, terra cotta or burnt orange smoky eye for a monochromatic makeup look. For cheeks, opt for warm nude or tawny blushes that complement the lip. Avoid blush or eye colors that are too cool-toned, as that competes with the warmth of Chili.
Ideal Skin Tones and Undertones for MAC Chili
MAC Chili is remarkably versatile for different skin tones. Those with the following complexions can pull it off beautifully:
- Fair skin with pink undertones
- Light to medium skin with peach undertones
- Medium skin with neutral or olive undertones
- Tan to deep skin with yellow undertones
- Cool-toned complexions (pink, red or blue undertones)
- Warm-toned complexions (peach, golden or yellow undertones)
The most important factor is whether your coloring leans more warm or cool. Chili suits both warm and cool tones since it strikes a balance between orange and blue-red shades.
Those with very fair or very deep skin without much color variation may prefer a more bold, intense lipstick shade. Chili has enough nuance in tone to complement most medium-to-deep complexions beautifully.
Tips for Applying MAC Chili Lipstick
Here are some tips for applying MAC Chili Lipstick flawlessly:
- Exfoliate and moisturize lips first to ensure a smooth, even application.
- Line lips with a coordinating lip pencil like MAC Brick or Cherry.
- Apply Chili straight from the bullet for full coverage.
- Blot lips with a tissue and reapply for longer wear.
- Use a lip brush for added precision around the edges.
- Apply a light layer of translucent powder over Chili to make the Matte finish last longer.
Seasonal Trends for Wearing Chili Lipstick
| Season | Trends |
|---|---|
| Spring | Pair with pastels and brights for a pop of color |
| Summer | Wear with bronzed skin and neutral eyes |
| Fall | Complement rich plums, oranges and greens |
| Winter | Standout shade against darker colors and metallics |
Occasions to Wear MAC Chili Lipstick
Chili’s versatility makes it suitable for both everyday and formal wear. It can transition seamlessly from day to night. Some occasions that are perfect for this lipstick include:
- Work
- School
- Casual daytime errands
- Date nights
- Cocktail parties
- Happy hours
- Nightclubs
- Black tie events
- Weddings
Chili also suits any seasonal event from spring picnics to holiday parties. For day, keep the rest of your makeup minimal. At night, amp up eyes and contouring to complement the bold lip.
Conclusion
With its perfect balance of blue-toned red and warm orange shades, MAC Chili is a universally flattering lipstick that packs a bold color punch. This iconic lip color suits a wide range of skin tones and can transition seamlessly from day to night. Chili is the perfect lipstick for beauty lovers looking to add a pop of vibrant, reddish-orange to their look.
