If there’s one show that’s been my comfort blanket since my teens, it’s ‘Gilmore Girls.’ The series isn’t just a nostalgic trip down memory lane, it’s even influenced how I dress and do my makeup well into my twenties.
In fact, the looks and makeup are so iconic that the show has only one Emmy, in the category ‘Outstanding Makeup – Series’. This goes to prove my point – the Lorelais’ looks are a blend of early 2000s charm and timeless elegance, making them trendsetters back in the day and unsurprisingly, just as relevant today as we see a barrage of old trends being revived!
While the infamous ‘Vicious Trollop‘ (the lipstick Lorelai tells her mother Emily she’s using when they go for a spa day) is not a real colour, after a little research, I do have a few of the exact shades used by Lauren Graham (Lorelai) and Alexis Bledel (Rory) in the show. Lip colours that were effortlessly diverse, matching their outfits and more importantly, their capricious moods.
Lipsticks That Withstood Everything From Coffee Torrents, To Kisses With Dean
Rory’s look throughout the show had a more bespoke approach to lip colour since there was an emphasis on the ‘effortless chic’, ‘no makeup makeup look’ when it came to the Yale graduate.
One of the lead makeup artists on the show, Tegan Taylor, allegedly mixed shades to create the unique colours that captured Rory’s evolving style. Favourites included MAC’s Capricious which was a reddish plum-berry colour and Clinique’s Toasted Rose, which is a reddish brown. Both are now discontinued but with close matches available.
Additionally, since the makeup on Gilmore Girls had to endure the series’ infamous coffee-drinking marathons – Clinique lipsticks were a go-to for their staying power, and MAC’s Viva Glam was a set staple for its endurance and vibrant colour.
As for lip health was crucial on set, the stars’ favourite pic was the Aquaphor Healing Ointment; a staple for the Lorelais, ensuring their lips stayed hydrated and camera-ready.
The lipsticks worn by Lorelai and Rory Gilmore were more than just makeup, they were an integral part of their characters. From playful pinks to deeper hues, their choices reflected their personalities and the show’s heartwarming essence. So, whether you’re a Rory or a Lorelai, there’s a shade out there to help you channel your inner Gilmore!
Featured Images: Instagram
