Trend Alert: '90s Makeup Is Back!
Trend Alert:
'90s Makeup
Is Back!
Try these tips from Taylor Daniel to incorporate the
makeup trends from the 1990s in a modern and wearable way.
BY GELISH
09.01.23

This fall, we step back in time to an era of iconic fashion and makeup trends from the 1990s. The allure of this decade and its influence on beauty trends (think: the matte brown lips and grunge-inspired smoky eyes) is making a comeback, but in new and contemporary ways. Indeed, the nostalgia of the '90s paired with today's reinterpretation of its trends is making beauty enthusiasts aflutter. Here, Taylor Daniel of Morgan Taylor shares her tips on reinventing inspiration from the '90s for wearable makeup and nails. And before you get nervous, remember: “Makeup doesn't have to be serious,” notes Daniel. “Experiment until you find what you like. What have you got to lose?”


Picture of various makeup supplies and brushes

1.

Statement Lips
When it came to '90s lips, it was either minimalist nudes or rich chocolate browns. For the modern iteration, ditch your classic reds and try out different tones on opposite ends of the spectrum. If you're cool toned, opt for berry or pink; if you're warm, try persimmon or terra cotta.

Red Lipstick tops
Pop-arazzi Pose - Swatch Pop-arazzi Pose 1110181 3110181
Go Girl - Swatch Go Girl 1110858 3110858
Orange Cream Dream - Swatch Orange Cream Dream 1110907
Reserve - Swatch Reserve 1110816
1.

Velvet Cloud Skin
Foundation in the '90s was seriously mattified, but that trend can easily look worse for wear if skin isn't prepped, resulting in a dry and chalky finish. Enter today's update, “cloud skin,” which combines luminosity with a diffused lightweight foundation. The idea is to achieve a flawless complexion with a soft-focus finish that looks fresh and natural. Start by prepping skin with a moisturizer for hydration, then top with a matte primer. You can achieve the velvety skin look with either a matte finish foundation or any oil-free formulation. Finish with a dusting of setting powder for an airbrushed, cloud-like effect.

Hands with make up brush ready to apply
2.

Grunge Eyes:
The '90s took smoky eyes to the next level with a whole lot of messy eyeliner that looked as if it had been worn all day (and night. And the next day!). Modernize the trend with a little more control (i.e., a smudge brush) for a little less “lived in” look. Line the top and bottom lashes with a thick layer of an easy-to-smudge eyeliner. Then grab a smudge brush and gently blur the liner out to create the smoky effect. Black is ultra-grunge, but brown, eggplant and even navy blue will keep you on trend.

Woman with make-up applied for 'smoky eyes' effect
Black Cherry Berry - Swatch Black Cherry Berry 1110867 3110867
A Little Naughty - Swatch A Little Naughty 1110191 3110191
A Touch of Sass - Swatch A Touch Of Sass 1110185 3110185
Inner Vixen - Swatch Inner Vixen 1110884
1.

Nineties Nails
The retro '90s makeup trends are not only showing up on faces this fall; they're being reinvented as nail trends as well. Try out some of these innovative takes or give your favorite '90s makeup look your own nail update!

Chrome Stix Silver Holographic - Swatch Chrome Stix Silver Holographic 1168195
Chrome Stix Gold Holographic - Swatch Chrome Stix Gold Holographic 1168196
Chrome Stix Magenta Chameleon - Swatch Chrome Stix Magenta Chameleon 1168198
Chrome Stix Violet Chameleon - Swatch Chrome Stix Violet Chameleon 1168199
1.

Lip Gloss Nails:
Inspired by the popular 1990s glossy pink lips, this nail style features a flawless pink nail brought to an ultra-high-shine finish. Recreate this look quickly and easily by using Gelish Foundation Flex!

Foundation Flex CLEAR - Swatch Foundation Flex CLEAR 1148015
Foundation Flex LIGHT PINK - Swatch Foundation Flex LIGHT PINK 1148016
Foundation Flex LIGHT NUDE- Swatch Foundation Flex LIGHT NUDE 1148017
Foundation Flex COVER BEIGE - Swatch Foundation Flex COVER BEIGE 1148018
1.

Rainbow Glitter:
No '90s girl was caught dead without body glitter, from loose shimmer to full-on glitter. Recreate this trend by sprinkling fine glitter all over nude nails for a subtle sparkle, or top inky black with rainbow flecks for a grungier take.

1.

Micro French:
There were plenty of “micro” makeup trends from the '90s, like uber-thin brows and tight-lining eyes, and these morphs beautifully into nail design. Simply tip nails with an ultra-thin line at the free edge. White is a classic but try having a little fun with color!

Say Nailfie! - Article