90s Retro Makeup Looks: How To Recreate The Trends

The 90s were a decade of bold fashion and makeup trends that are seeing a resurgence in popularity today. From grunge-inspired looks to the iconic "heroine chic" aesthetic, 90s makeup was all about experimentation and self-expression. If you’re looking to channel your inner 90s icon, this guide will walk you through recreating some of the most popular and enduring trends.

The Grunge Look:

Inspired by the burgeoning grunge music scene, this 90s makeup look was all about effortless cool and a touch of rebellion.

Key Features:
- Minimal foundation: Embrace your natural skin tone and use a light foundation or tinted moisturizer for a barely-there finish.
- Dark and smoky eyes: Opt for deep browns, grays, or blacks to create a smoky eye effect.
- Defined brows: Use a brow pencil or powder to create a natural looking, defined brow shape.
- Nude lips: Keep your lips natural with a nude lipstick or gloss.
Tips:
- Use a thin eyeliner to create a slightly messy, smudged look.
- Blend eyeshadow colors seamlessly to create a soft, diffused effect.
- Don't be afraid to embrace a slightly "undone" look.

The "Heroine Chic" Look:

This edgy look was inspired by the rise of supermodels like Kate Moss and Naomi Campbell, and it's all about minimalist elegance and a touch of darkness.

Key Features:
- Pale complexion: Use a light foundation and concealer to achieve a flawless, porcelain-like base.
- Subtle contouring: Define your cheekbones and jawline with a natural-looking contour powder.
- Bold lips: Opt for a classic red or deep berry lipstick.
- Effortless eye makeup: Keep eye makeup minimal with a thin line of black eyeliner and a coat of mascara.
Tips:
- Use a light hand with your makeup for a more natural, effortless look.
- Focus on one feature, whether it's your lips or eyes, to avoid looking overdone.

The "Slip Dress" Look:

This glamorous 90s look perfectly complements the iconic slip dress. It's all about shimmery skin and a touch of colour on the eyelids.

Key Features:
- Dewy skin: Use a highlighter to create a radiant, almost-wet look.
- Shimmery eyes: Opt for shimmery eyeshadows in neutral tones like gold, bronze, or champagne.
- Glossy lips: Use a clear or tinted lip gloss or a glossy lip balm.
- Defined lashes: Use a lengthening mascara to create dramatic lashes.
Tips:
- Use a cream blush to add a touch of colour to your cheeks.
- Apply highlighter on the tops of your cheekbones, brow bones, and Cupid’s bow for a subtle yet noticeable glow.

The "Blue Eyeshadow" Look:

Blue eyeshadow was a major trend in the 90s, and it can still be a bold and beautiful choice today.

Key Features:
- Clean base: Use a foundation and concealer to create a flawless canvas.
- Bold blue eyeshadow: Experiment with different shades of blue, from electric blue to navy.
- Dark eyeliner: Use a black or dark brown eyeliner to define your eyes.
- Neutral lips: Keep your lips neutral with a nude or light pink lipstick or gloss.
Tips:
- Blend out any harsh lines for a soft, diffused look.
- You can use a light hand to create a subtle wash of colour, or go full-on bold with a dramatic blue eyeshadow.

The "Brown Lip Liner" Look:

A 90s makeup staple, brown lip liner was used to define and enhance the natural shape of the lips.

Key Features:
- Nude or brown lipstick: Select a nude or brown lipstick that complements your skin tone.
- Brown lip liner: Use a brown lip liner to outline your lips and create a naturally-defined shape.
- Minimal eye makeup: Keep eye makeup minimal with a touch of mascara or a subtle eyeliner.
Tips:
- Choose a brown lip liner that matches your lip color or lipstick for a seamless look.
- Blend the lip liner outwards to seamlessly connect it to the lipstick.

The "Metallic Eyeshadow" Look:

Metallic eyeshadows were a big trend in the 90s, adding a touch of glamour and edge to any makeup look.

Key Features:
- Subtle base: Use a light foundation and concealer to create a smooth surface.
- Metallic eyeshadow: Opt for silver, gold, or bronze eyeshadows to create a dazzling effect.
- Neutral lips: Keep your lips neutral with a nude or light-colored lipstick.
- Black eyeliner: Use a black eyeliner to define your eyes and create a smoky effect.
Tips:
- Use a light hand to apply metallic eyeshadow to avoid looking overdone.
- Blend the edges well to create a seamless look.

90s Makeup Products to Try:

Nude lipstick: MAC Velvet Teddy, NARS Dolce Vita
Red lipstick: MAC Ruby Woo, NARS Dragon Girl
Brown lip liner: MAC Chestnut, NYX Professional Makeup Soft Matte Lip Pencil in Natural
Black eyeliner: Stila Stay All Day Waterproof Liquid Eyeliner, MAC Fluidline Blacktrack
Metallic eyeshadow: MAC Eyeshadow in Coppering, Urban Decay Naked Heat Palette
Blue eyeshadow: MAC Eyeshadow in Reflects Teal, Urban Decay Electric Palette

FAQ:

How can I get a dewy complexion like the models in the 90s? A good highlighter is essential for achieving a dewy look. Apply it to the high points of your face, such as your cheekbones, brow bones, and Cupid's bow.
Why is brown lip liner so popular? Brown lip liner helps to define the lips and create a natural, sculpted look. It can also be used to make lips appear fuller.
Is blue eyeshadow still considered trendy? Yes, blue eyeshadow is making a comeback in the beauty world, and it can be a great way to add a pop of color to your look.
What do I do if I don't have any 90s makeup products? You can recreate 90s makeup looks with modern products. Just remember to use a light hand and blend everything well.

Conclusion:

90s makeup looks are all about embracing your individuality and having fun with your style. Whether you're going for a grunge-inspired look or a glamorous slip dress aesthetic, there's a 90s makeup trend for everyone. Embrace the nostalgia and experiment with these iconic trends to find your own unique style.

Call to Action:

Ready to channel your inner 90s icon? Try one of these easy-to-recreate looks and share your results on social media using the hashtag #90smakeup.