The ‘90s Are Back: 7 Makeup Trends Resurfacing in 2026
The early 2000s might be dominating our current beauty conversations, but a nostalgic wave is crashing back – and it’s bringing the ‘90s makeup trends with it. It’s not just a fleeting TikTok trend; there’s a genuine appetite for the bold, playful, and often surprisingly minimalist looks that defined a decade. From Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy’s effortlessly chic red lip to the daring frosted eyeshadows favored by supermodels, the ‘90s aesthetic is poised for a major comeback in 2026. But let’s be honest, some of these trends – think body glitter – were considered a bit much at the time. Fortunately, many of the core elements of ‘90s makeup are incredibly wearable and easily integrated into contemporary looks. This isn’t about recreating a specific era exactly; it’s about tapping into the spirit of confidence and self-expression that characterized the decade, with a modern twist. We’re seeing a remarkable resurgence, fueled by social media and a desire for a return to simpler, more impactful beauty strategies. This particular moment in beauty history is fascinating, highlighting how trends cycle and how a seemingly fleeting aesthetic can gain such enduring popularity. The fact that we’re revisiting these looks in 2026 suggests a broader shift – a desire for authenticity and less overtly polished styles, mirroring a wider cultural movement away from constant self-optimization. Let’s dive into the seven key ‘90s makeup trends that are set to dominate this year, along with the best products to achieve the look.
1. Statement Red Lip
The ‘90s red lip wasn’t just a color; it was a statement. It was a declaration of confidence, a bold contrast to the minimal everything else. Think Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy’s iconic look from her wedding – a perfectly applied, matte red lip that commanded attention without needing any other embellishments. This trend is a fantastic example of how makeup can be used as a focal point, simplifying the entire face. Historically, red lipstick was a symbol of glamour and sophistication, often associated with classic Hollywood icons. However, in the ‘90s, it was embraced by a new generation of women who weren’t afraid to be bold and unapologetic. Interestingly, the red lip’s popularity wasn’t solely driven by celebrities; it was also fueled by a growing emphasis on individuality and self-expression. The key to nailing this look today isn’t just the color itself, but the application. A matte finish is crucial – avoid anything too glossy or dewy. It’s about creating a clean, precise line and ensuring the color is evenly distributed across the lip. The prevalence of long-wearing formulas is a huge advantage here; you want that red to stay put throughout the entire day.
Shop the Trend: MERIT Beauty Signature Lip Blush in September. This shade is consistently praised for its rich pigment and long-lasting formula. Dior Rouge Dior Lipstick in 999 is another iconic choice, offering a classic, universally flattering red. L’Oréal Paris Infallible Laque Resistance in 415 Red Club provides unparalleled staying power, resisting transfer and fading. Charlotte Tilbury Matte Revolution in Red Carpet Red delivers a luxurious matte finish with a stunning sheen. Nyx Professional Makeup Soft Matte Lip Cream in Amsterdam offers a more affordable option with a comfortable, long-wearing formula. Finally, a creamy lip liner like the NYX Professional Makeup Soft Matte Lip Liner in Plum & Get It is essential for defining the lip and preventing feathering.
2. Colour Pop
The ‘90s weren’t about blending everything together; they were about embracing colour. Vivid eyeshadows, bright blushes, and, yes, even bold lip colours – it was all about making a statement. This trend taps into the current obsession with playful, dopamine-inducing makeup. Think of Naomi Campbell’s iconic looks – the electric blue eyeshadows, the bright pink blushes, and the bold, multi-coloured eyeshadow palettes. It’s a far cry from the muted, neutral tones that often dominate today’s beauty landscape. The ‘90s colour palette was surprisingly diverse, ranging from pastel pinks and blues to vibrant purples and greens. The key here is to choose colours that complement your skin tone and create a balanced look. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different shades and combinations, but be mindful of not overwhelming the face. This trend is particularly well-suited for warmer months, adding a touch of fun and vibrancy to your look. A crucial element of this trend is the contrast – pairing a bold colour on the eyes or lips with a more subtle base.
Shop the Trend: Chanel Multi-Use Eyeshadow in 232 Lilas Poudre offers a beautiful lilac shade that’s perfect for creating a layered, colourful eye look. Refy lip glosses are another great option for adding a pop of colour to your lips. Fenty Beauty Killawatt Highlighter in Wattab!%# adds a shimmering highlight to the face. Benefit Benetint in Raspberry is a cult favourite for adding a rosy flush to the cheeks. e.l.f. Cosmetics Cream Glide Lip Liner in Plum & Get It provides a creamy, long-lasting base for bold lip colours.
3. Frosted Makeup
The “cold girl” aesthetic is having a moment, and the frosted makeup trend is a direct descendant of the ‘90s. This look is all about creating a cool, ethereal vibe with products like frosted lipsticks, eyeshadows, and highlighters. It’s a dramatic contrast to the warm, bronzed looks that were popular in the early 2000s. The frosted effect is achieved through the use of shimmery or glittery pigments that create a subtle sheen, resembling frost or ice. This trend gained traction in the late 2020s and early 2030s due to its association with a specific subculture – the “cold girl” aesthetic, which is characterized by a minimalist, monochromatic style. It’s a sophisticated and edgy look that’s perfect for evening events or adding a touch of drama to a casual outfit. The key to pulling off this trend is to use the frosted products sparingly, focusing on the eyes and lips rather than the entire face. A touch of frosted highlighter on the cheekbones can add a subtle shimmer without overwhelming the look. Historically, this trend was linked to the rise of frosted lipsticks in the mid-90s, popularized by models like Kate Moss and Naomi Campbell.
Shop the Trend: M.A.C Cosmetics Frost Lipstick in Plum Dandy delivers a stunning frosted finish. HAUS Labs Optic Intensity Eco Gel Eyeliner Pencil in Titanium Shimmer creates a shimmering gel eyeliner look. Rodial Blush Drops in Frosted Pink adds a subtle shimmer to the cheeks.
4. Ultra-Matte Bases
Let’s address the elephant in the room: ultra-matte foundations. While some makeup enthusiasts with dry skin might recoil at the thought, this trend was a defining characteristic of ‘90s makeup. The focus was on creating a smooth, even complexion without any shine or gloss. This wasn’t about achieving a “perfect” complexion – it was about creating a canvas that showcased the boldness of the other makeup elements. The shift towards matte foundations reflected a broader cultural trend towards minimalism and a rejection of overtly glamorous makeup styles. It’s worth noting that the popularity of matte foundations coincided with the rise of silicone-based primers, which helped to create a smooth, even surface for the foundation to adhere to. While there’s still skepticism surrounding matte foundations for dry skin, many newer formulas are formulated with hydrating ingredients that help to minimize dryness and flakiness. The key is to choose a lightweight matte foundation and pair it with a hydrating primer and setting spray.
Currently, many modern foundations offer a “skin-like” matte finish – such as the NARS Light Reflecting Foundation or the Dior Forever Foundation. Setting sprays can also help to control shine and prolong the wear of a matte foundation.
5. Body Glitter (and Other Unexpected Choices)
Okay, let’s talk about body glitter. It’s often cited as one of the most divisive ‘90s trends, and for good reason. While it’s still considered a bit of a throwback by many, it was undeniably a staple of the era, particularly among pop stars and celebrities. The use of body glitter was a way to add a touch of sparkle and glamour to any outfit, from casual jeans and a t-shirt to a formal evening gown. However, it’s important to acknowledge that body glitter was often used in excess, creating a look that was overwhelming and, frankly, a little tacky. Beyond body glitter, the ‘90s also saw the rise of other unexpected makeup choices, such as bright blue eyeshadow and face gems. These trends were often embraced by those who were looking to stand out and express their individuality. It’s important to note that these trends were often associated with a specific subculture – the grunge scene – which was characterized by a rejection of mainstream beauty standards.
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Shop the Trend: Simple shimmering body lotions can be used to create a subtle, understated glitter effect. Face gems are available in a wide range of colours and shapes, allowing you to create custom designs on your face or body.
6. The Importance of Liner
While the ‘90s were known for their minimalist approach to makeup, the use of eyeliner was absolutely crucial. Dark, precise eyeliner was used to create a dramatic, winged-out look that defined the eyes. This trend was particularly popular among models and celebrities, who used eyeliner to create a sharp, sculpted appearance. The use of black eyeliner was almost ubiquitous, but brown eyeliner was also a popular choice for creating a softer, more subtle look. The key to achieving the ‘90s winged eyeliner look is to start with a thin line along the upper lash line and gradually build up the thickness of the line as you move outwards. It’s also important to use a sharp eyeliner pencil or liquid liner to create a crisp, defined line.
Shop the Trend: NYX Professional Makeup Epic Ink Liner delivers a precise, long-lasting line. Urban Decay 24/7 Glide-On Eye Pencil offers a creamy, blendable formula.
7. The Rise of the Signature Lip Color
Beyond the overall red lip trend, the ‘90s also saw a rise in signature lip colors. While red was the most iconic shade, other popular choices included berry tones, mauve shades, and even deep plums. The key was to find a color that complemented your skin tone and personality. Many women used a signature lip color as a way to express their individuality and create a cohesive look. This trend was often paired with minimal eye makeup, allowing the lip color to take center stage. The use of lip liner was also crucial for defining the lip and preventing the color from bleeding. Interestingly, the rise of signature lip colors coincided with the growing popularity of tinted lip balms and lip glosses, which offered a more subtle and natural-looking way to enhance the lips.
Shop the Trend: Dior Rouge Dior Lipstick in 999 is a classic choice for a bold, red lip. Charlotte Tilbury Pillow Talk Lipstick offers a flattering pink shade. Benefit Benetint Rose-Tinted Lip & Cheek Stain adds a subtle wash of color to the lips and cheeks.
In Summary: The ‘90s makeup trends are making a remarkable comeback in 2026, offering a refreshing alternative to the overly polished, filtered looks that dominate today’s beauty landscape. By embracing bold colours, dramatic eyeliner, and signature lip shades, you can create a look that is both timeless and undeniably chic. Don’t be afraid to experiment and have fun with it – the ‘90s were all about self-expression and confidence. This icy makeup trend perfectly balances feeling cool and classic.
