The 1990s were a transformative era in many aspects, including the world of beauty and makeup. The decade witnessed a remarkable evolution in makeup trends that continue to influence modern-day beauty standards. From bold lip colors and dramatic eye makeup to dewy skin and glossy lips, the makeup of the 90s was characterized by creativity, experimentation, and individuality.

The iconic beauty looks of the 90s were popularized by pop stars, fashion icons, and movie stars who flaunted their unique styles on the red carpet, in music videos, and on fashion runways. Today, 90s makeup trends are making a comeback, inspiring beauty enthusiasts and professionals to recreate these iconic looks with a modern twist.

In this article, we will take a deep dive into the makeup of the 90s and explore the most popular trends of the decade. From classic red lip to DIY makeup, we will examine the impact of these trends on the beauty industry and their lasting influence on modern-day makeup looks. Join us on this journey through the makeup trends of the 90s, and discover how you can incorporate these iconic looks into your beauty routine.

Grunge Makeup:

Grunge makeup was one of the most iconic makeup trends of the 90s. Inspired by the grunge music scene, this makeup trend was all about a dark, moody, and rebellious look. The grunge makeup look was characterized by heavy black eyeliner, smudged eyeshadow, and dark lipstick shades. The aim was to create an “I don’t care” attitude, embracing a raw and edgy appearance.

Grunge makeup became mainstream in the early 90s and was popularized by rock stars and celebrities like Courtney Love, Madonna, and Winona Ryder. The look was considered unconventional and was embraced as an expression of individuality and rebellion.

To create the grunge makeup look, one would use black eyeliner to heavy line the upper and lower lash lines, then smudge it out for a smoky effect. The eyeshadow shades were typically dark, earthy tones, such as brown, gray, or green. The lips were kept dark and matte with shades like brown, burgundy, or deep red.

While the grunge makeup trend faded out of mainstream popularity by the late 90s, its influence can still be seen in modern-day makeup looks. The smoky eye trend, for instance, is a popular variation of the grunge makeup look that has evolved over time.

Overall, the grunge makeup trend of the 90s remains a significant marker in the history of makeup and an inspiration for those seeking to express their individuality and creativity through their appearance.

Natural Makeup:

The 90s were also a decade of minimalism, which was reflected in the natural makeup trend. This trend focused on creating a fresh and radiant look with a “less is more” approach. The natural makeup look was characterized by the sheer foundation, neutral eyeshadow, and glossy lips. The aim was to enhance the natural beauty of the skin without overpowering it with heavy makeup.

The natural makeup trend was popularized by celebrities like Kate Moss and Gwyneth Paltrow, who embraced the “no makeup” makeup look. To create this look, one would start with a sheer or tinted moisturizer, then use a subtle, neutral eyeshadow shade on the eyelids. The cheeks were given a light flush with a touch of blush, and the lips were kept glossy and natural-looking with a lip gloss.

The natural makeup trend of the 90s has continued to be popular over the years, with many beauty brands launching products that enhance natural beauty. Today, the trend has evolved to include the use of organic and natural beauty products that are kinder to the skin.

Overall, the natural makeup trend of the 90s remains an inspiration for those who seek a minimalistic approach to their makeup routine. It is a reminder that makeup can be used to enhance one’s natural beauty and not to mask it.

Bold Lips:

Bold lips were a major makeup trend of the 90s that made a powerful statement. This trend was all about using vibrant and eye-catching lip colors, like bright reds, pinks, and purples, to make a bold statement. The bold lip look was often paired with minimal eye makeup to let the lips take center stage.

The bold lip trend of the 90s was popularized by celebrities like Drew Barrymore and Cindy Crawford, who rocked bright and daring lip colors on the red carpet. To create this look, one would start by applying a lip liner to define the lips, then fill them in with a bright, bold lipstick shade.

Today, the bold lip trend has continued to be popular, with many beauty brands offering a wide range of lip colors and finishes. The trend has also evolved to include the use of long-lasting and matte lipsticks that offer an intense color payoff.

Overall, the bold lip trend of the 90s remains an iconic makeup trend that has stood the test of time. It is a reminder that makeup can be used to make a statement and express one’s personality and individuality.

Smokey Eyes:

Smokey eyes were a popular makeup trend of the 90s that gave a sultry and mysterious look. The trend involved using dark eyeshadows and blending them out to create a smoky effect around the eyes. The smokey eye look was often paired with nude or neutral lips to balance the look.

Smokey eyes were popularized by celebrities like Angelina Jolie and Jennifer Lopez, who rocked the look on red carpets and in music videos. To create the smokey eye look, one would start by applying a base eyeshadow shade, followed by a darker shade on the outer corners of the eyes. The eyeshadow was then blended out to create a smoky effect.

Today, the smokey eye trend remains popular, with many variations and techniques for creating the look. The trend has evolved to include the use of different eyeshadow finishes, like shimmer and glitter, to add extra drama to the look.

Overall, the smokey eye trend of the 90s remains a timeless makeup trend that has inspired many variations over the years. It is a reminder that makeup can be used to create a mood and evoke a sense of mystery and allure.

Glitter and Shimmer:

The 90s were a decade of glitter and shimmer, which added a touch of glamour and sparkle to the makeup trends of the time. Glitter and shimmer were used to create a variety of looks, from subtle and understated to bold and dramatic. The trend involved using glitter and shimmer in eyeshadows, highlighters, and lip glosses to add an extra sparkle to the face.

Glitter and shimmer were popularized by celebrities like Mariah Carey and Madonna, who embraced the trend and wore it on the red carpet and in music videos. To create the glitter and shimmer look, one would start with a neutral eyeshadow base, then add a layer of glitter or shimmer eyeshadow on top. The highlighter was then applied to the cheekbones and other high points of the face to create a glowing effect.

Today, the glitter and shimmer trend remains popular, with many beauty brands offering a wide range of glitter and shimmer products. The trend has evolved to include the use of holographic and iridescent finishes, which add a futuristic and edgy twist to the trend.

Overall, the glitter and shimmer trend of the 90s remains an iconic makeup trend that continues to inspire beauty enthusiasts around the world. It is a reminder that makeup can be used to add a touch of fun and playfulness to one’s look and that there are no rules when it comes to creativity and self-expression.

Contouring and Highlighting:

Contouring and highlighting were popular makeup trends of the 90s, which involved using makeup to create the illusion of more defined facial features. The trend involved using a combination of dark and light shades to sculpt the face and enhance its natural contours.

The contouring and highlighting trend was popularized by celebrities like Naomi Campbell and Tyra Banks, who had perfectly chiseled cheekbones and jawlines. To create the contouring and highlighting look, one would use a darker shade of foundation or powder to contour the hollows of the cheeks, temples, and jawline, while using a lighter shade to highlight the high points of the face, like the cheekbones, nose, and forehead.

Today, the contouring and highlighting trend remain popular, with many variations and techniques for creating the perfect sculpted look. The trend has evolved to include the use of cream and liquid formulas, which offer a more natural and seamless finish.

Overall, the contouring and highlighting trend of the 90s remains an iconic makeup trend that continues to shape the way we think about facial structure and enhancement. It is a reminder that makeup can be used to enhance one’s natural beauty and create a look that is both glamorous and sophisticated.

Eyebrows:

Eyebrows were an important makeup trend of the 90s, which involved shaping and filling in the eyebrows to create a defined and polished look. The trend involved using eyebrow pencils and powders to fill in sparse areas of the eyebrows and create a more defined shape.

The eyebrow trend was popularized by celebrities like Brooke Shields and Cindy Crawford, who had thick and bold eyebrows that became their signature look. To create the perfect eyebrow shape, one would start by brushing the eyebrow hairs upward and outward, then use an eyebrow pencil or powder to fill in any gaps or sparse areas.

Today, the eyebrow trend remains popular, with many variations and techniques for creating the perfect eyebrow shape. The trend has evolved to include the use of eyebrow gels and pomades, which offer a long-lasting hold and a more natural finish.

Overall, the eyebrow trend of the 90s remains an important makeup trend that continues to shape the way we think about eyebrows today. It is a reminder that eyebrows are an essential part of the face and can make a significant impact on one’s overall look.

Metallic Makeup:

Metallic makeup was a popular trend in the 90s, which involved using shimmery and glittery makeup to create a bold and futuristic look. The trend involved using metallic eyeshadows, lipsticks, and nail polishes to create a high-shine and reflective finish.

The metallic makeup trend was popularized by music icons like Madonna and Spice Girls, who often incorporated metallic elements into their makeup looks. To create the metallic makeup look, one would use metallic eyeshadows in shades like silver, gold, and bronze, paired with bold metallic lipsticks and high-shine nail polishes.

Today, the metallic makeup trend remains popular, with many variations and techniques for creating the perfect high-shine look. The trend has evolved to include the use of metallic highlighters and bronzers, which offer a more subtle and wearable way to incorporate metallic elements into one’s makeup routine.

Overall, the metallic makeup trend of the 90s remains an iconic makeup trend that continues to inspire and influence the beauty industry. It is a reminder that makeup can be used to experiment with bold and unconventional looks and that there are no limits to what one can achieve with a little bit of creativity and imagination.

Bold Eyeliner:

Bold eyeliner was a popular makeup trend of the 90s, which involved using eyeliner to create dramatic and edgy eye looks. The trend involved using thick and bold lines of eyeliner to create a graphic and statement-making look.

The bold eyeliner trend was popularized by celebrities like Drew Barrymore and Gwen Stefani, who often incorporated bold and graphic eyeliner looks into their makeup routines. To create the bold eyeliner look, one would use a liquid or gel eyeliner in a dark color, like black or dark brown, to create thick and precise lines along the upper lash line and lower lash line.

Today, the bold eyeliner trend remains popular, with many variations and techniques for creating the perfect graphic look. The trend has evolved to include the use of colored eyeliners and the incorporation of graphic shapes and designs into eyeliner looks.

Overall, the bold eyeliner trend of the 90s remains an iconic makeup trend that continues to inspire and influence the beauty industry. It is a reminder that makeup can be used to experiment with bold and unconventional looks and that there are no limits to what one can achieve with a little bit of creativity and imagination.

Matte Makeup:

Matte makeup was a popular trend of the 90s, which involved using makeup with a flat, non-shiny finish. The trend involved using matte foundations, lipsticks, and eyeshadows to create a smooth and velvety finish.

The matte makeup trend was popularized by celebrities like Jennifer Aniston and Winona Ryder, who often incorporated matte makeup looks into their red carpet-appearances. To create the matte makeup look, one would use a matte foundation, setting powder, and matte lipsticks and eyeshadows in shades like nudes, browns, and burgundies.

Today, the matte makeup trend remains popular, with many variations and techniques for creating the perfect non-shiny look. The trend has evolved to include the use of matte liquid lipsticks and the incorporation of bold colors and graphic designs into matte eyeshadow looks.

Overall, the matte makeup trend of the 90s remains an iconic makeup trend that continues to inspire and influence the beauty industry. It is a reminder that makeup can be used to create a variety of finishes, from high-shine metallics to flat, non-shiny mattes, and that there are endless possibilities for creating beautiful and unique makeup looks.

Brown Lipstick:

Brown lipstick was a popular makeup trend of the 90s, which involved using lipsticks in shades of brown to create a natural and understated lip look. The trend involved using brown lipsticks in a range of shades, from light beige browns to deep chocolate browns.

The brown lipstick trend was popularized by celebrities like Cindy Crawford and Naomi Campbell, who often incorporated brown lipstick looks into their fashion and beauty looks. To create the brown lipstick look, one would use matte or satin lipstick in a shade of brown that complimented their skin tone.

Today, the brown lipstick trend remains popular, with many variations and techniques for creating the perfect natural lip look. The trend has evolved to include the use of glossy and metallic brown lipsticks, as well as the incorporation of ombre and gradient lip looks using multiple shades of brown.

Overall, the brown lipstick trend of the 90s remains an iconic makeup trend that continues to inspire and influence the beauty industry. It is a reminder that sometimes the most understated and natural makeup looks can be the most beautiful and timeless and that there is beauty in simplicity.

Glossy Lips:

Glossy lips were a popular makeup trend of the 90s, which involved using lip products with a high-shine and wet look finish. The trend involved using lip glosses or clear lip balms to create a reflective and glossy finish on the lips.

The glossy lip trend was popularized by celebrities like Mariah Carey and Pamela Anderson, who often incorporated glossy lip looks into their fashion and beauty looks. To create the glossy lip look, one would use a clear or tinted lip gloss over a lip liner or lipstick in a complementary shade.

Today, the glossy lip trend remains popular, with many variations and techniques for creating the perfect high-shine lip look. The trend has evolved to include the use of metallic and holographic lip glosses, as well as the incorporation of ombre and gradient lip looks using multiple shades of gloss.

Overall, the glossy lip trend of the 90s remains an iconic makeup trend that continues to inspire and influence the beauty industry. It is a reminder that sometimes the simplest and most natural makeup looks can be the most beautiful and that there is beauty in a healthy and hydrated pout.

Colored Mascara:

Colored mascara was a popular makeup trend of the 90s, which involved using mascara in bright and bold colors, as blue, green, and purple. The trend involved using colored mascara on the lashes as a statement makeup look, often paired with neutral or minimal eye makeup.

The colored mascara trend was popularized by celebrities like Drew Barrymore and Gwen Stefani, who often incorporated colored mascara looks into their fashion and beauty looks. To create the colored mascara look, one would apply the colored mascara over a black or brown mascara base, or use it alone for a more dramatic effect.

Today, the colored mascara trend remains popular, with many variations and techniques for creating the perfect colorful lash look. The trend has evolved to include the use of pastel and neon-colored mascaras, as well as the incorporation of colored lash extensions.

Overall, the colored mascara trend of the 90s remains an iconic makeup trend that continues to inspire and influence the beauty industry. It is a reminder that sometimes a pop of color can add a fun and playful element to any makeup look, and that there is beauty in taking risks and experimenting with makeup.

Dramatic Makeup:

Dramatic makeup was a popular makeup trend of the 90s, which involved using bold and intense makeup looks to create a statement. The trend involved using deep and dark shades of eyeshadows, lipsticks, and blushes, as well as heavy contouring and highlighting techniques.

The dramatic makeup trend was popularized by celebrities like Madonna and Cindy Crawford, who often incorporated dramatic makeup looks into their fashion and beauty looks. To create a dramatic makeup look, one would use deep and intense shades of makeup products and apply them with precision and boldness.

Today, the dramatic makeup trend remains popular, with many variations and techniques for creating the perfect dramatic look. The trend has evolved to include the use of graphic eyeliner, bold and dramatic false lashes, as well as the incorporation of unconventional shades and textures of makeup products.

Overall, the dramatic makeup trend of the 90s remains an iconic makeup trend that continues to inspire and influence the beauty industry. It is a reminder that makeup can be a form of self-expression, and that there is beauty in taking risks and pushing the boundaries of traditional beauty norms.

Glowing Skin:

Glowing skin was a popular makeup trend of the 90s, which involved creating a natural and dewy complexion with makeup products. The trend involved using lightweight and illuminating products to give the skin a radiant and healthy glow.

The glowing skin trend was popularized by celebrities like Jennifer Aniston and Gwyneth Paltrow, who often incorporated glowing skin looks into their fashion and beauty looks. To create a glowing skin look, one would use moisturizing and illuminating skincare products, as well as lightweight and dewy foundations and highlighters.

Today, the glowing skin trend remains popular, with many variations and techniques for creating the perfect radiant complexion. The trend has evolved to include the use of skincare ingredients like hyaluronic acid and vitamin C, as well as the incorporation of techniques like face yoga and facial massage to enhance the natural radiance of the skin.

Overall, the glowing skin trend of the 90s remains an iconic makeup trend that continues to inspire and influence the beauty industry. It is a reminder that natural and healthy-looking skin is always in style and that taking care of your skin is the foundation of any great makeup look.

Celebrity Makeup:

The 90s were a decade of iconic celebrity makeup looks that continue to inspire and influence the beauty industry today. From the grunge-inspired makeup of Courtney Love to the sleek and sophisticated looks of Naomi Campbell, the decade was filled with a variety of makeup styles that showcased the creativity and versatility of makeup.

One of the most influential celebrity makeup looks of the 90s was the minimalist makeup of supermodel Kate Moss. Moss’s signature look featured barely-there makeup that highlighted her natural beauty and effortless style. Her look was characterized by clean, glowing skin, neutral eye makeup, and a touch of lip gloss.

Other notable celebrity makeup looks of the 90s included the bold and colorful makeup of pop stars like Madonna and Janet Jackson, as well as the dramatic and glamorous looks of actresses like Winona Ryder and Sharon Stone. These looks often featured bold eyeshadow colors, dramatic eyeliner, and statement lipstick shades.

Today, celebrity makeup remains a major source of inspiration for beauty enthusiasts around the world. From the minimalist looks of models like Bella Hadid to the bold and daring looks of artists like Billie Eilish, celebrities continue to push the boundaries of makeup and inspire new trends and techniques.

Makeup Tools:

The right makeup tools can make all the difference in achieving the perfect makeup look. In the 90s, makeup tools were often simple and straightforward, with many people relying on their fingers and basic brushes to apply their makeup. However, as the decade progressed and makeup trends became more complex, so too did the tools used to create them.

One of the most popular makeup tools of the 90s was the sponge applicator. This small, wedge-shaped tool was perfect for applying eyeshadow and helping to blend colors for a seamless look. Many makeup brands also offered foundation sponges for achieving a smooth and flawless base.

Another popular tool was the lip brush, which allowed for the precise application of lipstick and lip gloss. Many beauty enthusiasts also used eyebrow pencils and brushes to help define and shape their brows.

Today, makeup tools have evolved significantly and there are a wide variety of tools available to help achieve any makeup look imaginable. From beauty blenders and contour brushes to specialized tools for applying false eyelashes, the options are endless. Investing in high-quality makeup tools can not only make your makeup application easier but also help to ensure a more professional and polished result.

Men’s Makeup:

Makeup has historically been seen as a women’s beauty product, but in recent years, men’s makeup has gained popularity and acceptance. In the 90s, it was still relatively uncommon for men to wear makeup, but some men did experiment with it.

One popular trend for men’s makeup in the 90s was the use of concealer to cover blemishes and dark circles under the eyes. This trend was popularized by male celebrities such as David Bowie and Johnny Depp, who often sported a natural-looking, flawless complexion.

Today, men’s makeup has become more mainstream, with brands offering products specifically designed for men, such as tinted moisturizers, concealers, and brow gels. Many men use makeup to enhance their features or to create a more polished appearance for work or special events.

While the idea of men wearing makeup may still be controversial in some circles, the trend is growing in popularity and many men are embracing it as a way to feel more confident and put together.

DIY Makeup:

Makeup can be expensive, and sometimes it’s fun to experiment with creating your own products at home. DIY makeup has become increasingly popular in recent years, with many people enjoying the creativity and cost savings that come with making their own beauty products.

In the 90s, DIY makeup was also popular, with many people creating their own lip glosses and eyeshadows using household ingredients like petroleum jelly and food coloring. DIY makeup was often seen as a fun and affordable way to express creativity and experiment with new colors and textures.

Today, there are countless DIY makeup tutorials available online, with bloggers and YouTubers sharing their favorite recipes for everything from homemade lip balms to DIY mascaras. Some popular DIY makeup ingredients include coconut oil, shea butter, and beeswax, which can be used to create a variety of beauty products.

While DIY makeup can be a fun and cost-effective way to experiment with different colors and textures, it’s important to remember that not all ingredients are safe to use on the skin. Always do your research and make sure to use high-quality, skin-safe ingredients when creating your own makeup at home.

Makeup of the 90s Tutorial

Conclusion:

The 90s were a time of experimentation and self-expression when it came to makeup. From grunge to natural looks, bold lips to smokey eyes, the makeup trends of the 90s were diverse and constantly evolving.

Many of the makeup trends that emerged in the 90s continue to influence beauty today, with bold lips, metallic eyeshadows, and glowing skin all remaining popular choices. The rise of DIY makeup has also allowed people to get creative with their beauty routines, experimenting with homemade products and personalized blends.

Whether you’re a fan of the bold, edgy makeup of the 90s or prefer a more natural look, there’s no denying the impact that this era had on the beauty world. By looking back at the makeup trends of the 90s, we can gain a better understanding of how beauty has evolved over time and continue to find inspiration for our own personal style.

FAQs:

1. What was the most popular makeup trend in the 90s?

There were many popular makeup trends in the 90s, but one of the most iconic was the grunge look, characterized by dark lipstick, heavy eyeliner, and a messy, undone appearance.

2. How do I recreate a 90s makeup look?

To recreate a 90s makeup look, start with a matte foundation and add some contouring and highlighting to create a definition. Experiment with bold lip colors like brown, burgundy, or dark red, and don’t be afraid to play with glitter and shimmer on the eyes. Finish with some bold eyeliner and colored mascara for a statement look.

3. Is men’s makeup a recent trend?

Men’s makeup has been around for centuries, but it has gained more mainstream attention in recent years with the rise of gender-neutral beauty and the increased acceptance of men wearing makeup as a form of self-expression.

4. Can I use DIY makeup products safely?

DIY makeup products can be safe to use as long as you are using high-quality, safe ingredients and following proper hygiene practices. Be sure to do your research and follow trusted recipes, and always test a small patch of skin before using a new product.

5. What are some common makeup tools I should have in my kit?

Some essential makeup tools include brushes for foundation, blush, and eyeshadow application, a beauty blender or sponge for blending, and eyelash curlers. Additionally, having a good set of tweezers and eyebrow scissors can help you maintain a well-groomed eyebrow shape.

6. How do I know which makeup trends are right for me?

Experimenting with different makeup trends can be a fun way to express yourself, but ultimately, the best makeup trend for you is one that makes you feel confident and comfortable. Try out different looks and see what feels natural to you, and don’t be afraid to adapt trends to suit your personal style.