90s Makeup Trends: A 2025 Revival

90s Makeup Trends: A 2025 Revival

The 90s are back, baby! From the resurgence of grunge fashion to the rise of the "heroine chic" aesthetic, the decade of flannel, chokers, and boy bands has infiltrated every facet of pop culture, and makeup is no exception. But while nostalgia drives the trend, it’s not a simple rehash of what was popular in the 90s. 2025 sees a more nuanced, evolved approach to 90s makeup, incorporating modern techniques and a focus on inclusivity and individuality.

The Evolution of 90s Makeup

The 90s makeup scene was a melting pot of styles, influenced by grunge, minimalism, and the rise of supermodels like Cindy Crawford and Kate Moss. Think bold lips, shimmery eyeshadows, and a focus on natural-looking skin.

While these elements remain relevant, 2025 sees a shift towards more sustainable and inclusive practices. Gone are the days of heavy foundation and harsh contouring. Instead, the focus is on enhancing natural features and celebrating diversity.

Key 90s Makeup Trends in 2025

1. The "No Makeup" Makeup Look

This trend embodies the 90s minimalist aesthetic, emphasizing flawless, healthy-looking skin over heavy coverage. Think dewy, hydrated skin with a touch of concealer to cover imperfections, a light dusting of translucent powder to set, and a subtle blush for a natural flush.

2. Grunge Glamour

This trend takes inspiration from the rebellious spirit of 90s grunge, embracing imperfections and a "lived-in" look. Expect smoky eyes, dark lips, and a touch of grunge-inspired eyeliner. Think smudged black eyeliner, dramatic winged liner, or even a touch of glitter for a rebellious edge.

3. The "Heroine Chic" Revival

The 90s "heroine chic" look, characterized by pale skin, dark lips, and a touch of grunge, is experiencing a resurgence. This look embodies a sense of effortless cool and mystery, with an emphasis on enhancing natural features and creating a sultry, mysterious vibe.

4. The Return of the Brown Lip

Brown lipstick, once a staple of the 90s, is making a comeback. From deep chocolate browns to warm terracotta shades, the trend embraces a sense of richness and depth. This versatile shade can be worn for both casual and formal occasions, and it complements a variety of skin tones.

5. Shimmer and Sparkle

The 90s were all about shimmer, and this trend continues to shine in 2025. From iridescent eyeshadows to glittery lip gloss, the focus is on adding a touch of sparkle and dimension to the makeup look.

6. The "Glossy" Lip

Lip gloss, once a 90s staple, is making a comeback with a modern twist. 2025 sees a focus on sheer, hydrating glosses that add a touch of shine and color to the lips without feeling sticky or heavy.

7. The "Fox Eye" Trend

This trend, inspired by the elongated, almond-shaped eyes of the 90s supermodels, is all about using makeup to create the illusion of a lifted, feline eye. This can be achieved with a combination of eyeliner, eyeshadow, and contouring techniques.

8. The "90s Brow"

The 90s brow was all about natural, defined brows, and this trend is back with a modern twist. 2025 sees a focus on shaping and grooming the brows to enhance their natural shape, rather than creating a perfectly symmetrical arch.

9. The "Bold Lip"

The 90s were all about bold lip colors, and this trend is still going strong in 2025. From bright reds to deep purples, the focus is on making a statement with the lips.

The 90s Makeup Look: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Skin Prep:

• Cleanse: Start with a gentle cleanser to remove any impurities and makeup.
• Exfoliate: Use a gentle exfoliator to remove dead skin cells and create a smooth canvas for makeup.
• Hydrate: Apply a hydrating serum or moisturizer to plump the skin and create a dewy base.

2. Base:

• Primer: Apply a primer to create a smooth surface and help makeup last longer.
• Foundation: Choose a lightweight foundation that matches your skin tone and provides a natural-looking finish.
• Concealer: Use a concealer to cover any blemishes or dark circles.
• Powder: Set your makeup with a light dusting of translucent powder.

3. Eyes:

• Eyeshadow: Choose a neutral eyeshadow palette or a single shimmery shade to create a subtle eye look.
• Eyeliner: Use a black or brown eyeliner to define the eyes. You can create a classic cat-eye, a smudged look, or a thin line along the lash line.
• Mascara: Apply a few coats of mascara to enhance the lashes.

4. Brows:

• Groom: Use a brow brush to brush the brows into place.
• Fill: Use a brow pencil or powder to fill in any sparse areas.
• Set: Use a brow gel to keep the brows in place.

5. Lips:

• Lip Liner: Use a lip liner to define the lips and prevent lipstick from bleeding.
• Lipstick or Gloss: Apply a bold lipstick or a sheer gloss to complete the look.

Tips for Achieving the 90s Makeup Look:

• Embrace the "Less is More" Approach: The 90s makeup look is all about enhancing natural features, so avoid overdoing it.
• Focus on Skin: Create a flawless base by using a lightweight foundation and concealer.
• Embrace Color: Don’t be afraid to experiment with bold lip colors and shimmery eyeshadows.
• Don’t Forget the Details: Small details, like a touch of highlighter or a bold brow, can make a big difference.
• Have Fun: The 90s makeup look is all about expressing yourself, so experiment and find what works best for you.

The 90s Makeup Trend: A Cultural Commentary

The resurgence of 90s makeup trends isn’t just a fashion statement; it’s a cultural commentary. The decade’s emphasis on individuality, rebellion, and a rejection of perfection resonates with a generation grappling with social media pressures and a desire for authenticity.

The 90s makeup look allows individuals to express themselves creatively and embrace their unique beauty. It’s a reminder that beauty is not about conforming to unrealistic standards but about celebrating our individuality and embracing our imperfections.

Conclusion

The 90s makeup trend is more than just a nostalgic throwback; it’s a celebration of individuality, self-expression, and a rejection of unrealistic beauty standards. As we move into the future, we can expect to see this trend continue to evolve, with new interpretations and innovations emerging. But one thing is certain: the 90s influence will continue to shape the beauty landscape for years to come.