Every few years, the media space regularly announces the return of the 1990s aesthetic. In fact, interest in this decade has not disappeared – it just changes form. The selections of inspiration preserved from the teenage years only visually confirm: the influence of that era remains constant.
According to makeup artist Ashley K. Holm, the main principle of the 1990s looks was a balance between expressiveness and naturalness: an emphasis on individual facial features was combined with a feeling of slight negligence and effortless elegance. In 2026, this approach is just as relevant. The basis is the image of supermodels: voluminous styling, velvety textures and makeup with a matte finish. It is this style that is proposed to be recreated today.
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1990s supermodel makeup
“1990s makeup was a response to the excesses of the 1980s, when bright blush and neon colors dominated. Instead, lighter, more natural skin, delicately outlined lips, light pearlescent shades, and a more 'wearable' playfulness appeared,” explains makeup artist Taylor Chanel.
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The look was both understated and expressive. Fresh skin was combined with bronze contouring, and naturalness with bright color accents and glow. Key figures who shaped these trends included Kevin Aucoin, Matthew Andersen, Sam Fine, Pat McGrath, Bobbi Brown, and Francois Nars. To adapt this style to modern times, Ashley K. Holm recommends starting with brown and smoky shades (the so-called “latte makeup”) and adding light dramatic accents.
Sculpted cheekbones
One of the main features of the look was the clearly defined cheekbones. Contouring helped create the effect of a pronounced bone structure. “This era is characterized by a clear facial anatomy,” says makeup artist Valeria Ferreira. At the same time, natural skin with light freckles makes the look more modern. Tip: use a soft fluffy brush and a warm bronzer to emphasize the cheekbones and forehead line.
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Matte shades on the eyelids
The classic 1990s supermodel look is based on cool browns and neutrals that accentuate the shape of the eyes. Makeup artist Emily Gray recommends brown or smoky gray shadows along the lash line or a monochrome matte shade applied to the entire eyelid.
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Pearlescent accents
To add expression, pearlescent textures were used – blue, lavender, pink, steel or copper shades. They were applied pointwise on the eyelids or lips to maintain balance and avoid excessive decorativeness.
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Genuine leather
The ideal of the 1990s is fresh, velvety skin with a light natural contour. To achieve this effect, light foundations with a satin finish are used that do not overload the skin. First, the tone is evened out, imperfections are masked, and only then a delicate contour and blush are added. The matte texture is back again, but in a softer version. It is about the effect of well-groomed, naturally matte skin. Setting powders with a scattering effect help control shine and create a smooth surface.
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Shaped eyebrows
Thin, defined eyebrows were a defining feature of the 1990s. Today, just a light touch of highlighting and gel is enough, without overfilling.
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“Juicy” lips
Shades ranged from nudes to rich browns and reds. A darker shade was often used to contour to create volume.
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Clear lines
Eyeliner and lip liner were essential elements. Lips were slightly outlined but carefully blended for a soft effect.
Separated and voluminous lashes
The lashes remained naturally voluminous, elongated and curled without the effect of excessive “artificiality”. The goal is a light, open look.
1990s supermodel hair
This style is associated with confidence, strength, and at the same time femininity. It was worn by supermodels who defined the aesthetics of the era. The image was built on clear shapes: straight hair, voluminous styling, thick strands and expressive contours.
Volume and shape
The secret to voluminous styling is working with damp hair, brushing and fixing each strand. Modern products simplify the process: stylers, root volume and fixing products create the effect without excessive effort.
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Casual styling
Casual updos start with natural drying and light texture. The hair is then gathered into soft buns or knots, leaving a few strands out for a natural, undone effect.
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Straight parting
Symmetry was a key feature of the style. A straight parting, smooth styling, and shine created a characteristic “clean” silhouette.
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Accessories
Elastic bands, hairpins, hoops, and decorative hair clips complemented the look. Both simple elements and more expressive decorations were used, from metal details to pearl accents.
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Based on material from vogue.com