Back To The 90s: Iconic Makeup Trends Making A Comeback

Crystel Zieme 27 Jun 2025

Step into a time machine, and you'll find yourself transported to an era where pop music reigned supreme, denim was king, and beauty trends were bold, unapologetic, and utterly unforgettable. Welcome back to the 90s, a decade that continues to inspire and influence fashion and beauty today. From the frosted eyelids of pop princesses to the deep, moody lips of grunge goddesses, 90s makeup was a unique blend of understated chic and daring experimentation. What's truly remarkable is how these looks, once thought to be relics of the past, are now experiencing a vibrant resurgence, proving that truly iconic styles never really fade away.

Thanks to platforms like TikTok, the younger generation is discovering the magic of this era, while those who lived through it are embracing the nostalgia with open arms. Makeup artists are being asked to break down their favorite looks, from body glitter and frosted eyeshadow to tightliner and super glossy lips, demonstrating just how relevant these trends remain. It's clear: everything old is new again, and when it comes to the distinctive charm of 90s makeup, we're all here for it.

The Enduring Allure of 90s Makeup
The Pillars of 90s Makeup: Key Trends Revisited
Eyes That Hypnotize: Frosted Shadows & Tightliner
- Blue Eyeshadow: From Bold to Blended
- The Art of Tightlining: Subtle Definition
The Power Pout: Burgundy Lips and Super Gloss
- Brown Lips: The Ultimate Neutral
Glimmer and Shine: The Resurgence of Body Glitter and Frosted Everything
- Glittery Pink: A Playful Nod
The Grunge Aesthetic: Dark Liner and Matte Skin
Beyond the Face: Hair and Attitude Complementing 90s Makeup
Modernizing Your 90s Makeup Look: Tips for Today

The Enduring Allure of 90s Makeup

The 1990s were a fascinating period in beauty, characterized by a stark contrast between minimalist, 'no-makeup' makeup and bold, experimental looks. It was an era where supermodels like Kate Moss popularized a more natural, yet artfully disheveled appearance, while pop icons like Britney Spears and Christina Aguilera embraced a full-glam, often shimmery, aesthetic. The best '90s makeup trends were widely adopted by the most beautiful, iconic celebrities of the time, from Britney and Christina to every member of Destiny’s Child. This widespread adoption by cultural tastemakers cemented these looks in the public consciousness, making them synonymous with the decade's unique vibe. What makes 90s makeup so captivating even today is its versatility. Whether you’re channeling your inner supermodel with a subtle, contoured look or embracing your rebellious side with a dramatic grunge liner, there’s a 90s makeup trend for everyone. The decade offered a range of looks from grunge to glam, allowing for individual expression. This diversity is perhaps why, while some beauty trends stayed firmly in the decade (think ultra-thin eyebrows, which many are keen to leave in the past), many of the hottest 1990s makeup looks are making a triumphant return. The current fascination with all things '90s, fueled by social media platforms like TikTok, has brought these noteworthy makeup looks back into the spotlight, often with a modern upgrade that makes them perfectly suited for today's beauty landscape.

The Pillars of 90s Makeup: Key Trends Revisited

The 90s makeup aesthetic was built upon several foundational elements that defined its distinctive character. These weren't just fleeting fads; they were statements that permeated red carpets, music videos, and everyday street style. According to Gabriel Barse, a professional makeup artist and partner with Flower Knows, some of the biggest ‘90s makeup trends include brown lips, thin eyebrows, frosted eyeshadow, matte skin, and grunge liner. These elements, whether worn individually or combined, created looks that were both memorable and influential. The decade's beauty ethos often leaned towards a more defined, yet sometimes understated, approach to features. Light eye makeup ruled red carpets and runways in the '90s, often focusing on subtle hues and strategic placement to enhance rather than overpower. The lips, however, frequently became the focal point, with deep, rich shades or high-shine glosses making a bold statement. The complexion was typically kept matte, providing a clean canvas for the other features to pop. This combination of defined eyes, prominent lips, and a flawless base created a cohesive and recognizable 90s makeup signature that continues to resonate.

Eyes That Hypnotize: Frosted Shadows & Tightliner

When we talk about 90s makeup, the eyes often come to mind as a playground for experimentation, particularly with shimmer and subtle definition. Frosted eyeshadows were ubiquitous, gracing the eyelids of pop stars and supermodels alike. These shimmery, often pale, hues brought a touch of ethereal glam to any look. The color extravaganza of blue eye shadow, burgundy lipstick, and the unforgettable glitter have all crept back into beauty looks from the runway to the street, proving their enduring appeal.

Blue Eyeshadow: From Bold to Blended

Blue eyeshadow, once a staple of the 80s, found a new, softer interpretation in the 90s. While some might recall the more dramatic, all-over blue lids, the 90s often saw it applied with a lighter hand. Often, the hues of choice included silver, white, light blue, and lavender, with special attention to inner creases and contoured, shiny finishes. This wasn't about a harsh, blocky application but rather a wash of color, sometimes concentrated on the lid or blended outwards for a softer effect. Celebrities like Christina Aguilera and members of Destiny's Child often sported these cool-toned shimmers, making them a go-to for a playful yet sophisticated eye. To update the classic 90s makeup trends of blue eyeshadow for today, consider using a sheer wash of pastel blue, or focusing a brighter blue on the inner corner for a modern pop.

The Art of Tightlining: Subtle Definition

While bold eyeliner wasn't always the focus, a more subtle technique known as tightlining gained popularity. This involved applying eyeliner directly into the upper waterline, creating the illusion of fuller, darker lashes without a visible line. It was a trick used by makeup artists to give definition to the eyes while maintaining that coveted 'no-makeup' makeup feel that was also prevalent in the decade. This technique perfectly complemented the light eye makeup that ruled red carpets and runways in the '90s, providing a delicate yet impactful enhancement. It's a timeless technique that remains relevant today, offering a refined way to define the eyes without the heaviness of a traditional winged liner.

The Power Pout: Burgundy Lips and Super Gloss

If the eyes were sometimes understated, the lips in 90s makeup were anything but. They were often the star of the show, making a bold statement with deep, rich colors or a dazzling, reflective shine. The Spice Girls were on top of the pops, Destiny's Child's debut album was ready to go in your portable CD player, and makeup aisles of your local drugstore were full to the brim with frosted eyeshadows and lipsticks—it was an iconic time for beauty, especially for lip trends. Burgundy lipstick, in particular, became an emblem of the era's sophisticated yet edgy vibe. This deep, vampy shade, often applied with a distinct lip liner, exuded confidence and a touch of grunge. It was seen on everyone from high-fashion models to R&B divas like Monica, whose makeup was dark and dramatic, thanks to the matte lip and precise liner. The color extravaganza of burgundy lipstick has crept back into beauty looks from the runway to the street, proving its timeless appeal. For a modern twist, you can opt for a sheer burgundy stain or a velvety matte finish, perhaps paired with a slightly blurred lip line for a softer edge.

Brown Lips: The Ultimate Neutral

Alongside burgundy, brown lips were arguably the most defining lip trend of the 90s makeup scene. From light, caramelly browns to deep, chocolatey hues, brown lipstick became the ultimate neutral, versatile enough for both everyday wear and glamorous occasions. Often paired with a slightly darker lip liner to create a contoured, fuller effect, this trend was championed by countless celebrities and became a signature look for the decade. The popularity of brown lips stemmed from their ability to complement a wide range of skin tones while offering a sophisticated alternative to traditional reds and pinks. Today, brown lips are back with a vengeance, often seen in creamy, satin, or glossy finishes, moving away from the ultra-matte looks of the past, offering a fresh take on this beloved 90s staple. And then there were the super glossy lips. Whether worn over a hint of color or completely clear, a high-shine lip gloss was essential. It added a youthful, fresh dimension to any look, contrasting beautifully with the matte complexions and sometimes intense eye makeup. This glossy finish captured the vibrant spirit of the 90s, reflecting light and creating an irresistible pout. The combination of dark, defined lips with a high-shine finish was a common sight, embodying the era's blend of edginess and playful glamour.

Glimmer and Shine: The Resurgence of Body Glitter and Frosted Everything

The 90s were undeniably the decade of shimmer. Beyond frosted eyeshadows, glitter permeated every aspect of beauty, from hair to body. Body glitter, in particular, was a festive and playful trend, adding a touch of sparkle to shoulders, décolletage, and even legs. It was a staple for concerts, parties, and any occasion that called for a little extra pizzazz. This unapologetic embrace of sparkle captured the youthful exuberance of the era, making everyone feel like a pop star.

Glittery Pink: A Playful Nod

The glittery pink 90s makeup look is a nostalgic nod to the shimmering glam of the era. Characterized by its bold use of pink shades and a generous dose of glitter, it captures the vibrant spirit of the 90s. This often involved pink eyeshadows with a generous amount of shimmer, sometimes extending to the cheeks as a subtle blush, and definitely on the lips with a frosted pink lipstick or gloss. It was a sweet yet sassy look that perfectly embodied the bubblegum pop aesthetic. While we may have at one point thought these looks were gone for good, the resurgence of all things ‘90s has brought this playful trend back, often updated with finer glitters and more sophisticated pink tones for a grown-up sparkle. Today, while the full-body glitter might be reserved for special events, subtle shimmers and highlighters inspired by the 90s are everywhere. Frosted lipsticks, once a hallmark of the decade, are also making a comeback, albeit with more refined formulas that offer a sophisticated sheen rather than an overtly metallic finish. The idea is to catch the light and create dimension, echoing the glamorous yet approachable vibe of 90s makeup.

The Grunge Aesthetic: Dark Liner and Matte Skin

While pop stars embraced shimmer and gloss, another powerful aesthetic emerged from the 90s: grunge. This look was characterized by a more rebellious, unkempt vibe, often featuring darker, smudged eyeliner and a decidedly matte complexion. It was a stark contrast to the polished glamour, reflecting a counter-culture movement that valued authenticity over perfection. Grunge eyeliner was typically dark, often black or deep brown, and applied with a deliberate messiness. It wasn't about precision; it was about a lived-in, smudged look that conveyed an edgy, don't-care attitude. This often involved lining both the upper and lower lash lines, sometimes extending into a soft wing, and then intentionally smudging it for a smoky, rock-and-roll effect. This look, seen on musicians and models alike, became a symbol of the era's alternative scene. Complementing the grunge liner was a preference for matte skin. Unlike today's obsession with dewy finishes, the 90s favored a flat, velvety complexion. This meant liberal use of powders to eliminate any shine, creating a flawless, almost doll-like base. This matte finish provided a stark contrast to the often dramatic eyes and lips, allowing them to stand out even more. The combination of dark, dramatic eyes, matte skin, and often a deep, matte lip (like burgundy or brown) created a powerful, moody statement that defined the grunge side of 90s makeup.

Beyond the Face: Hair and Attitude Complementing 90s Makeup

It's crucial to remember that makeup was just one element of 90s beauty. The complete package involved hair, clothes, and attitude. The iconic looks of the decade were never just about the face; they were about a holistic aesthetic that conveyed a particular mood or statement. Hairstyles to complement 90s makeup were as varied and distinctive as the makeup itself. For instance, the "Rachel" haircut, popularized by Jennifer Aniston in "Friends," became a global phenomenon, often paired with more natural, understated makeup. On the other hand, the sleek, straightened hair of pop stars often accompanied their frosted eyeshadows and glossy lips. Braids at the front of the face—sometimes interspersed throughout the hair as well—was a cutesy but cute '90s beauty trend that added a playful touch to many looks. The crimped hair, butterfly clips, and even the iconic zig-zag headbands all played a role in framing the face and completing the 90s makeup narrative. The attitude was equally important. Whether it was the confident swagger of a supermodel, the rebellious angst of a grunge artist, or the effervescent charm of a pop princess, the way one carried themselves amplified the beauty look. This synergy between makeup, hair, fashion, and personal demeanor created the unforgettable style of the 90s. When recreating 90s makeup today, considering the overall vibe—from a slightly messy bun to a confident smirk—can truly elevate the look beyond just the cosmetics.

Modernizing Your 90s Makeup Look: Tips for Today

With the resurgence of all things ‘90s, the decade’s most noteworthy makeup looks are getting a modern upgrade, making them perfectly wearable for today. While some trends, like the infamous super-thin eyebrows, are best left in the past (and personally, we’re all about it, especially for our overplucked eyebrows), many others can be adapted beautifully. Now you know about the best and most happening 1990s makeup trends, and if you want to emulate the 90s makeup looks, follow our guide. Here are some tips from pro makeup artists on how to update classic 90s makeup trends for 2024: * **Frosted Eyeshadow:** Instead of an all-over frosty lid, try applying a sheer wash of silver, white, or light blue shimmer only on the inner corner of the eye or as a subtle highlight on the center of the lid. This offers a modern, sophisticated take on the classic. * **Blue Eyeshadow:** Opt for a muted, dusty blue or a vibrant cobalt as a pop of color along the lash line rather than extending it up to the brow bone. Blending is key to avoid a harsh look. * **Burgundy Lipstick:** While the dark, matte look is still chic, consider a satin or glossy burgundy finish for a softer, more hydrated appearance. You can also dab it on lightly for a stained effect. * **Brown Lips:** Experiment with different undertones – warm, cool, or neutral – to find the perfect brown for your skin tone. Pair it with a clear gloss for a modern, plump look, or keep it matte for a classic 90s vibe. * **Tightliner:** This technique remains timeless. Use a waterproof gel liner for longevity and precise application to enhance your lashes subtly. * **Body Glitter:** For a more refined sparkle, use a shimmering body oil or a finely milled highlighter on your collarbones and shoulders instead of chunky glitter. * **Matte Skin:** While a completely matte finish can look flat, aim for a "soft matte" look. Use a mattifying primer in your T-zone and a luminous foundation elsewhere, setting only where needed with a translucent powder. This gives you the best of both worlds. Always use the best hair and makeup products because you don’t want to harm your skin or scalp. Whether you are going for body shimmer or dark lipsticks, always buy premium products from quality brands. Investing in good quality cosmetics not only ensures better performance but also protects your skin, adhering to principles of responsible beauty. Cue up your beloved ‘90s playlist, and keep reading for more insights into ‘90s eye makeup ideas, lip looks, and more! Embrace the allure of 90s makeup styles and make them your own.

Conclusion

The undeniable appeal of 90s makeup lies in its ability to transcend time, offering a rich palette of styles that range from minimalist to boldly expressive. We've explored the core trends that defined the decade, from the shimmer of frosted eyeshadows and body glitter to the dramatic statements of burgundy and brown lips, and the edgy allure of grunge eyeliner and matte skin. These looks, once popularized by iconic figures like Britney, Christina, and Destiny's Child, are now enjoying a vibrant comeback, proving that true style is cyclical and endlessly inspiring. The beauty of 90s makeup is its adaptability. With a few modern tweaks, these classic looks can be seamlessly integrated into your contemporary routine, allowing you to channel your inner supermodel or embrace your rebellious side with confidence. Remember, the key to recreating these trends successfully lies not just in the products you use, but in the attitude you bring to them. So, go ahead, experiment with a glossy brown lip, a hint of blue on your eyelids, or a subtle tightline. We encourage you to dive into the world of 90s makeup and discover how these timeless trends can refresh your personal style. Share your favorite 90s makeup looks in the comments below, or tell us which trend you're most excited to bring back!

SUPERMODEL SHRINE | Guess models, Guess ads, Guess fashion

April 1992 | Guess fashion, Guess clothing, Guess models

Pin on Karen Mulder

InstantInk