This lip-liner-and-gloss-only combo is the easiest way to fake fuller lips while honoring the ‘clean girl’ look
It all started on TikTok. User DaMenace posted a video calling out a lip trend: “You know what I love about the girls? When y’all doing that lil thing with your lips; when y’all put the outline on there with the lipgloss in the middle—giving like ‘French tip lip combo?’” And, voila, the rest was history. Women ran with it, posting their takes on this now-viral lip trend while being amused by the man’s quirky description. But what exactly is this lip combo, and how can you achieve it?
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What Is It?
DaMenace’s description may be funny, but it makes sense. It’s exactly what this lip combo looks like—a French tip manicure comprised of defined edges, usually in white, and a soft and glossy center. Taking it to the lips, this look entails a sharp liner tracing the edges, a gloss diffusing in the middle, and zero overblending. Unlike a gradient lip, there’s more contrast here, making the shape of the lips more defined, intentional, and fuller.
This isn’t the first time we’ve seen it, too. Before its rebranding for the algorithm, ‘90s supermodels and R&B queens already sported the look—the likes of Naomi Campbell, Mary J. Blige, and J.Lo lining their lips in a rich brown shade before letting a glossy center fill the rest. The appeal? It remains the same.
It’s gloss cementing its comeback and matte finally being left in the past. It gives ‘clean girl’ with a bit of attitude—sharp, glossy, but never boring.
How to Achieve the ‘French Tip’ Lip
There’s no need for an overly elaborate how-to. There are only two products after all—how complex could that be?
Line with precision. Choose a lip liner a few shades darker than your natural lip tone. You can even go dramatic with an even bolder contrast. The edges should be clean, not smudged.
Apply gloss generously. A clear or slightly tinted gloss in the center creates the perfect soft-focus event.
Resist the urge to blend. The beauty of this look is in the separation. The liner stays liner, the gloss stays gloss. Let them coexist in harmony.
Get the Look
The ‘French tip lip’ is much like a manicure; its vibe shifts with the shade. While there’s no one way to wear it, meaning you can go bold or demure as your look calls for, ahead are some lip combinations to inspire your look.
Going bold and dramatic is possible with a brown-hued lip look, meaning shades of espresso, chestnut, or cocoa. Swipe a brown-tinted or caramel gloss in the middle to keep it balanced. This is perfect for when you want your lips to do the talking without saying a word.
For the soft and demure, line your lips with a mauve or rosy lip liner to define the shape. Swipe on a sheer pink gloss to make everything look effortless. It’s also the perfect in-between—playful enough for daytime, polished enough for the evening.
Beige isn’t always boring. Use a neutral brown or taupe liner to enhance your lips’ shape, while opting for a beige-toned gloss to keep it natural. It’s ideal for when you want to get dolled up without looking like you tried too hard.
While the look has its roots in past trends, it’s more than a recycled whim. Whether you have two-toned lips—which this look is perfect for—the ‘French tip lip’ is proof that a little contrast goes a long way.
Featured Image and Photos: BLUSMARINE, LALISAMGGER, ZOE ARCHIVE, MOODS OF AQUARIUS (via X), ZENDAYA THROWBACKS, STEPH HUI (via Instagram), 90s HISTORY (via Threads)
