90s Minimalist Makeup Is Trending, So Here’s How To Nail A Less-Is-More Look

Think muted neutrals, soft matte skin and naturally defined arches.

Our obsession with all things 90s isn’t new when it comes to fashion – hello straight-leg ‘mom’ jeans, chunky loafers, slip dresses and micro sunglasses – but the iconic decade has also seen a number of iconic beauty trends experience a revival.

Take Lily James’ star turn as Pamela Anderson in the popular Pam & Tommy series as an example. Upon the show’s release last year, TikTok became flooded with tutorials for Pammy-esque hair and makeup, which were then adopted by the likes of Kim Kardashian on the red carpet.

Characterised by muted neutral hues of deep brown and brick, soft matte skin and defined eyes and arches, 90s-inspired minimalist makeup continues to reign supreme.

Here’s how to make the nostalgic look feel fresh and modern for the new season.

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Make It Matte

That gleaming, high-shine finish we’ve all been coveting in recent years? Put it on the backburner because 90s minimalism has heralded the return of a soft matte finish. Say goodbye to shine and embrace naturally flawless skin with this long-wearing formula, which seamlessly veils imperfections without leaving the face looking flat or cakey.

Try: Make Up For Ever HD Skin Foundation

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Put It In Neutral

Unlike Y2K, brights have no place in the neutral-loving 90s aesthetic. Swap out your pops and pastels in favour of muted shadows and lipstick, with a focus on cool-toned browns, brick reds and timeless nudes. This handy mini eyeshadow palette has everything you need to create an understated eye look, simply buff in and finish with a few coats of inky black mascara.

Try: Napoleon Perdis Colour Ritual Eyeshadow Quad

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Brow Down

Don’t freak out, but brows were significantly slimmer in the 90s. Those who lived through the era might be feeling a little PTSD, but we’re not looking to go pin-thin again (thankfully!). Simply pare back your brow routine by opting for a slim-tipped pencil instead to lightly define your arches without making them a focal point.

Try: Garbo & Kelly Brow Perfection Pencil

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Latte Lips

TikTok can attest to 90s-esque lip combos being the latest thing, with many of the most popular makeup brands struggling to keep their brown lip liners in stock. Mercifully, M.A.C’s lip liners are still in stock (for now!), so you can get that coveted latte lip look by lining the edges of your lips with a deep brown, followed by a subtly lighter lip colour for an understated ombré effect.

Try: MAC Lip Pencil in Oak

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Line Of Sight

Last night’s eyeliner needs no AM clean-up, as the slept-in waterline is experiencing a renaissance. The look also needs far less of a steady hand than winged liner, so it’s an easy one to nail for novices. Simply line the inner rim of your lash line with dark liner to create delicate, smoky definition – the less contrived, the better.

Try: Bobbi Brown Long-Wear Waterproof Liner

Fast delivery and free returns.

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