There’s something about the 90s that keeps pulling us back. Maybe it’s the quiet power of a chocolate lip. Maybe it’s the grunge-lined eyes that said, “I didn’t try, but I still look amazing.” Or maybe it’s just the nostalgia — that VHS-filtered glow of a decade where beauty walked the perfect line between effort and edge.
But let’s get one thing straight: we’re not here to recreate every 90s trend detail for detail. This isn’t about overplucked brows or chalky matte foundation that could survive a windstorm. The magic lies in the reinterpretation—taking the most iconic elements of 90s beauty and making them work for right now. The goal? Timeless glam with a nostalgic twist.
Whether you love a supermodel moment or lean toward a softer grunge vibe, there’s a 90s-inspired look that can elevate your everyday and make you feel a little bit iconic.
Grunge Light and Supermodel Energy
If the 90s had a face, it would’ve belonged to Kate Moss — eyeliner slightly smudged, cheekbones sharp, and lips outlined like a work of art. This look is all about that perfectly undone energy. It’s raw, it’s cool, and best of all—it’s low maintenance.
Eyes:
Smudge a brown or black kohl pencil into your upper and lower lash lines — don’t be too neat. Let it look a little slept-in, like Winona Ryder coming home from a film premiere at 2 a.m. Sweep a taupe shadow into your crease and call it done. If you want to up the drama, a touch of shimmer on the lid (a nod to early Gwen Stefani) keeps things interesting.
Brows:
No need to relive the horror of pencil-thin arches. You can nod to the 90s aesthetic without going extreme — just keep your brows tidy, and if you’re feeling experimental, use a touch of concealer to fake a slimmer shape. A pencil one shade lighter than your natural brow color gives that soft, model-off-duty finish.
Lips:
This is where you go full Naomi Campbell. Outline your lips with a chestnut or cocoa liner — overline slightly if you dare — then fill in with a nude, caramel, or peachy lipstick. Blend with your fingertip for that blurred, effortless pout, or add a dab of gloss for extra dimension.
Skin:
Go for that fresh matte finish — matte, but never flat. A soft-matte foundation or skin tint keeps things natural. Think Cindy Crawford on a Calvin Klein shoot: clean, sexy, no fuss.
Minimalism With a Modern Kick
The 90s were known for their simplicity — but make no mistake, simple doesn’t mean boring. This version of minimalism is about quiet confidence and understated polish. Think Jennifer Aniston’s iconic glow or Halle Berry’s subtle red-carpet glamour.
Eyes:
Neutral shadows in matte finishes are your best friend — soft taupes, warm browns, a hint of mocha. Add gentle definition with a brown liner or a pencil-brush combo for a soft cat eye. Tightline your upper waterline to give the illusion of fuller lashes without harsh lines.
Brows:
Structured but never severe. Brush them up, fill in lightly, and let them frame your face naturally.
Lips:
Go bold with a confident lip moment. Brick reds, deep berries, and plums were 90s staples — and they still hit just right. Madonna knew it then; we know it now. A strong lip is a power move. Use a matching liner for precision and opt for a satin finish to keep it modern.
Skin:
Aim for a softly blurred complexion. Try a natural or demi-matte foundation and pair it with cream blush in dusty rose or muted coral. Add a hint of highlighter — not sparkle, just glow. Think Julia Roberts in any 90s rom-com: radiant, real, and romantic.
Elegance With Edge
Not all 90s beauty icons were about rebellion — some ruled with quiet sophistication. Think Michelle Pfeiffer’s timeless allure, Susan Sarandon’s soft confidence, or Iman’s powerful grace. These looks remind us that beauty with depth never goes out of style.
Eyes:
Blend shadows in flattering, earthy tones like plum, bronze, or slate to add depth without heaviness. A soft wing or extended lash line elongates and lifts the eyes. Keep shimmer minimal — a touch on the inner corner or center of the lid adds just enough light.
Brows:
Tame and define. Use a fine-tip pencil to fill any sparse areas and maintain a lifted, natural shape. Go for soft, neutral tones over harsh contrasts for the most flattering effect.
Lips:
Mauves, roses, and rich nudes always feel right. A well-matched liner keeps things polished and prevents feathering. Channel the elegance of Michelle Pfeiffer in The Fabulous Baker Boys — smooth, sultry, and endlessly sophisticated.
Skin:
Lightweight, skin-blurring formulas keep the complexion modern. A tinted moisturizer or radiant matte foundation with medium coverage works beautifully. Add a hint of cream blush in rose or berry, skip the harsh contour, and use a bit of bronzer to warm the skin. Finish with soft luminosity on the cheekbones and cupid’s bow for a subtle 90s glow.