Between the occasionally all-too-youthful pop of lip gloss and the sometimes matronly veneer of lipstick, what it is a sophisticated lady to do?

Opt for the middle road by choosing a lip stain instead. These products can pack a powerful punch of color without the uber-reflective qualities of sticky gloss, and often result in a more understated, demure look that most lipsticks have yet to achieve.

Additionally, stains are true to their name as they promise to stay with you all day and won’t need many touch-ups.

If you have trouble choosing just one stain, get them all – Liptini‘s Lip Liqueur Mini Bar features five shades of lip stains that are tiny enough to all fit in your purse.

Many lip stains can double as a cheek stain too, and this versatility is hard to beat. Use GloMinerals gloTint for Cheeks & Lips – its one-size-fits-all rosy shade will flatter any complexion with an instant pop of youthful color.