The 90s are calling—and this time, we’re answering with bold eyeliner, matte skin, and moody lipstick. Whether you're reliving the decade or discovering it for the first time, the 90s grunge makeup look is a rebellious beauty statement that still feels oh-so-right. Let me walk you through the essential techniques and products to help you nail the ultimate throwback face.
What Defines a 90s Makeup Look?
Grunge meets glam with this era-defining aesthetic. Think:
- Matte foundation
- Barely-there brows
- Smoky, smudged eyes
- Heavy liner
- Brown-toned or deep red lips
It’s unapologetic, raw, and a little rough around the edges—just how we like it.
How to Recreate the Iconic 90s Eye Makeup
Go Smoky or Go Home
The eye look of the 90s was all about smoky definition. Choose cool-toned shadows—charcoal, grey, or taupe—and blend them into the crease and under the lash line.
Pencil-thin Brows, Big Impact
Over-plucked brows were iconic in the 90s. While we’re not bringing that trend back in full force (your brows are safe!), you can opt for a slightly thinner shape for authenticity.
90s Lipstick Shades That Ruled the Decade
From Brick Red Lips to Deep Browns
The 90s lip was moody and matte. Think brick reds, espresso browns, and mauve nudes. Bonus points if you pair it with a contrasting liner for that exaggerated pout.
Red vs. Brown: Which Shade Reigns?
Red was power. Brown was rebellion. Choose based on your mood—or better yet, have both in your rotation.
Mastering 90s Blush Highlighter and Contour Techniques
Blush wasn’t heavy-handed. Stick to dusty rose or warm terracotta shades applied high on the cheekbones. Contour was soft, if present at all—just enough to sculpt subtly.
Creating the Ultimate 90s Grunge Makeup Look
Step-by-Step Breakdown
- Start with a matte base—no dewiness here.
- Smudge dark liner along your lash line and waterline.
- Add depth with dark shadow in the outer corners.
- Go heavy on mascara, and don’t be afraid to let it clump a bit.
- Finish with a bold lip, preferably lined and matte.
Must-Have Products for a 90s Beauty Look
- Matte foundation or powder
- Kohl eyeliner pencil
- Smoky eyeshadow palette
- Brown-toned lip liner and lipstick
- Volumising mascara
How to Apply 90s Smoky Eyeshadow Like a Supermodel
Start with a creamy base shade, then pack on a dark shadow across the lid. Smudge eyeliner generously, and don't forget the lower lash line. Blend everything—but not too much. This look should feel lived-in.
Matte Skin: The Foundation of 90s Makeup
Use a matte primer and a full-coverage foundation. Set with powder, and keep blotting sheets nearby if needed. Dewy skin had no place in grunge clubs.
90s Makeup Trends That Are Totally Back
Today’s beauty landscape is loving:
- Brick red lips
- Gloss over matte (as a modern twist)
- Softly smudged liner
- Nude, defined lips
- Monochromatic brown tones
Retro Makeup Looks Still in Style
From Cindy Crawford’s bronzed goddess glow to Gwen Stefani’s bold lips and bleached brows, these looks are finding their way back into our makeup bags.
Metallic Body Glitter: Yes, It's Back—Here's How to Use It
Dab it on your collarbones or shoulders for festival season. Just keep it subtle—think shimmer, not sparkle overload.
The 90s Eye Shadows You Need Right Now
Look for cool-tone palettes with shades like:
- Slate grey
- Deep taupe
- Soft mocha
- Gunmetal shimmer
Perfecting 90s Eyeliner and Mascara Application
Make Your Eyeliner Pop
Line the upper and lower waterlines with kohl, then smudge for softness. Add a wing if you're leaning into the glam grunge vibe.
Lush Lashes the 90s Way
Layer your mascara—more is more. Try a chunky lash effect for an authentic finish.
Top Mascara Picks for a 90s Vibe
- Maybelline Great Lash (a true 90s icon)
- Benefit BADgal Bang!
- L'Oréal Voluminous Original
90s Lip Trends That Defined a Generation
Lip liner was non-negotiable. Use a dark lip liner and fill in with a lighter lipstick, or keep the liner visible for a statement contrast.
How to Nail a Nude Lip Like a 90s It-Girl
Choose a brown-based nude. Overline slightly with a deeper pencil and fill in with a satin or matte finish. It's minimal but sultry.
Recreating Iconic Looks from 90s Supermodels
Kate Moss: Grunge Queen
Think minimal skin, smudged eyes, and a just-woke-up vibe.
Cindy Crawford: All-American Glow
Matte skin, bronzed cheeks, and a subtle brown lip.
Drew Barrymore: Baby Doll Grunge
Flushed cheeks, soft smoky eyes, and an earth-toned pout.
Create a 90s Makeup Look for a Trip Down Memory Lane
Feeling nostalgic yet? Whether you're heading to a themed party or just want to channel your inner 90s supermodel, these throwback beauty trends are as wearable now as they were then. Grab your eyeliner, matte lipstick, and a bit of attitude—because the 90s never really left.
