Velvet Teddy vs Pillow Talk – Which One Should You Choose?
Two of the most iconic nude lipsticks in beauty history. MAC Velvet Teddy is the deeper, warmer beige nude that's been a cult favorite for over a decade. Charlotte Tilbury Pillow Talk is the universally flattering pink-nude that took the beauty world by storm. Discover which one suits your skin tone and style best.
Quick Comparison
| Feature | MAC Velvet Teddy | Pillow Talk |
|---|---|---|
| Undertone | Warm (beige, peachy) | Neutral (pink-nude) |
| Finish | Matte | Soft Matte |
| Longevity | 6-8 hours | 6-8 hours |
| Best for Skin Tones | Warm undertones, fair to medium | All undertones, universal |
| Price Range | $19-21 | $29-35 |
| Try On | Try Velvet Teddy | Try Pillow Talk |
MAC Velvet Teddy Overview
Undertone
Warm, beige nude with peachy undertones. The warm base makes it ideal for warm and neutral-warm skin tones.
Finish
Matte – silky-matte texture that's comfortable and long-wearing without being drying.
Who It Suits
Perfect for warm undertones, fair to medium skin tones. Creates a sophisticated, natural MLBB effect.
Charlotte Tilbury Pillow Talk Overview
Undertone
Neutral pink-nude. The neutral base makes it universally flattering for all skin tones and undertones.
Finish
Soft Matte – moisturizing, modern formula with a luminous matte finish that's comfortable to wear.
Who It Suits
Universal shade that flatters all skin tones and undertones. The most versatile nude lipstick available.
Side-by-Side Swatches
MAC Velvet Teddy
Deeper beige nude with warm undertones
Charlotte Tilbury Pillow Talk
Lighter pink-nude with neutral undertones
Which One Should You Choose?
Best for Fair Skin
Velvet Teddy works beautifully on fair skin with warm undertones. Pillow Talk is more versatile for fair skin, especially those with cool or neutral undertones, offering a lighter, more natural look.
Best for Medium Skin
Both shades are stunning on medium skin. Velvet Teddy creates a perfect MLBB effect on warm-toned medium skin. Pillow Talk offers a softer, more universally flattering look.
Best for Olive Skin
Velvet Teddy is ideal for warm olive skin tones, harmonizing beautifully with the warm undertones. Pillow Talk also works well on olive skin, especially neutral olive tones.
Best for Deep Skin
Pillow Talk may appear too light on deep skin. Velvet Teddy can work but may also be too light. Consider Pillow Talk Medium or deeper nude alternatives for better contrast.
Best for Cool Undertones
Pillow Talk is the clear winner for cool undertones with its neutral-to-slightly-cool pink base. Velvet Teddy may appear too warm for very cool skin tones.
Best for Warm Undertones
Velvet Teddy is specifically designed for warm undertones and is the ideal choice. Pillow Talk also works well on warm skin due to its neutral base, but Velvet Teddy is the better match.
Similar Shades from Other Brands
If you love these shades, you might also enjoy these similar colors from other premium and luxury brands. All recommendations are from authentic, established beauty brands.
Similar to MAC Velvet Teddy
NYX Soft Matte Lip Cream in Abu Dhabi
Similar warm beige tones from NYX Cosmetics
Maybelline Color Sensational in Touch of Spice
Close color match with warm, rosy-brown tones from Maybelline
Revlon Super Lustrous in Mauve It Over
Similar undertones with comfortable formula from Revlon
Similar to Charlotte Tilbury Pillow Talk
MAC Velvet Teddy
Warmer version from MAC Cosmetics
NYX Soft Matte Lip Cream in Cannes
Close color match from NYX Cosmetics
Maybelline Color Sensational in Nude Embrace
Similar pink-nude tone from Maybelline
Similar Shades You Might Like
Explore more iconic nude and pink lipstick shades to find your perfect match.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which shade lasts longer: Velvet Teddy or Pillow Talk?
Both shades offer excellent longevity. MAC Velvet Teddy's matte formula typically lasts 6-8 hours with minimal touch-ups. Charlotte Tilbury Pillow Talk also provides long-wearing coverage, usually lasting 6-8 hours. Both are known for their staying power, with Velvet Teddy having a slight edge due to its more matte finish.
Which shade suits warm skin tones better?
MAC Velvet Teddy is better for warm skin tones due to its warm, beige undertones with peachy qualities. It's specifically designed to complement warm and neutral-warm complexions. Pillow Talk has neutral undertones, making it more universal but less specifically warm-toned than Velvet Teddy.
Which shade is more matte: Velvet Teddy or Pillow Talk?
MAC Velvet Teddy has a more matte finish with its silky-matte texture. Charlotte Tilbury Pillow Talk has a soft, luminous matte finish that's slightly less matte and more comfortable. Velvet Teddy is the more matte of the two.
What are similar shades to Velvet Teddy and Pillow Talk from other brands?
For Velvet Teddy, similar shades include NYX Soft Matte Lip Cream in Abu Dhabi, Maybelline Color Sensational in Touch of Spice, and Revlon Super Lustrous in Mauve It Over. For Pillow Talk, similar shades include MAC Velvet Teddy (warmer version), NYX Soft Matte Lip Cream in Cannes, and Maybelline Color Sensational in Nude Embrace. All recommendations are from authentic, established beauty brands.
Which shade is better for everyday wear?
Both shades are excellent for everyday wear, but Pillow Talk is often considered more universally flattering due to its neutral undertones. Velvet Teddy is perfect for everyday wear if you have warm undertones, while Pillow Talk works for all undertones. Both are MLBB (My Lips But Better) shades ideal for daily use.
Which shade suits cool undertones better?
Charlotte Tilbury Pillow Talk is better for cool undertones due to its neutral-to-slightly-cool base with pink tones. Velvet Teddy has warm undertones, making it less ideal for cool skin tones, though it can work on neutral-cool complexions.
What's the price difference between Velvet Teddy and Pillow Talk?
MAC Velvet Teddy typically retails around £19-21, while Charlotte Tilbury Pillow Talk is priced around £29-35. Velvet Teddy offers excellent value, while Pillow Talk is a luxury option with a premium price point.
Which shade is more comfortable to wear?
Charlotte Tilbury Pillow Talk is generally more comfortable due to its moisturizing, modern formula that's designed to be hydrating. Velvet Teddy's matte finish can feel slightly more drying, though both are comfortable for long wear. Pillow Talk has the edge in comfort.
Can I try both shades on before buying?
Yes! You can try both MAC Velvet Teddy and Charlotte Tilbury Pillow Talk on virtually using GlowLip's AI try-on feature. Simply upload a selfie and see how each shade looks on your lips instantly. No sign-up required.
Which shade is better for fair skin?
Both shades work well on fair skin, but the choice depends on undertones. Velvet Teddy is ideal for fair skin with warm undertones, while Pillow Talk works beautifully on fair skin with cool or neutral undertones. Pillow Talk may be slightly more versatile for fair skin overall.
Is Velvet Teddy darker than Pillow Talk?
Yes, Velvet Teddy is slightly darker and deeper than Pillow Talk. Velvet Teddy is a deep beige nude, while Pillow Talk is a lighter, pinker nude. The depth difference is subtle but noticeable, with Velvet Teddy providing more contrast.
Which shade is more popular?
Both shades are extremely popular cult favorites. Pillow Talk has gained massive popularity in recent years and is often considered one of the most iconic nude lipsticks. Velvet Teddy has been a long-standing favorite for over a decade. Both have huge search demand and are bestsellers.
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