Almost 4 Decades Later, And These Iconic '90s Makeup Looks Are Making a Comeback

Between jelly sandals, Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy-inspired fashion and statement cord necklaces, it feels like the ‘90s are officially back. But let’s be honest, this iconic decade has never really left us. But it’s undeniably more evident in 2026. And if there’s one nineties category that made the biggest mark this year, it would certainly have to be beauty. More specifically, '90s makeup looks are making a huge comeback this year, with some of the biggest trends being those we saw dominate almost four decades ago.

Now, we know that makeup trends come and go, especially in the age of TikTok, Instagram and YouTube, but there’s just something about a ‘90s makeup look that feels timeless, fitting right into the current zeitgeist without a second thought. Of course, there are trends that, as a makeup minimalist, would have had me running in the opposite direction: body glitter, bright blue eyeshadow and face gems, to name a few. But luckily for me, the it-girl-approved ‘90s makeup trends making a comeback in 2026 remain chic, timeless and, most importantly, feel extremely wearable.

Below, I’ve rounded up the seven key ‘90s makeup aesthetics that are set to dominate 2026. From playful pops of colour that are perfect for the upcoming summer season to the dark lip-liner trend that’s taken TikTok by storm, keep scrolling to see the ‘90s makeup looks trends that are making a comeback in 2026, plus the best beauty buys available so that you can get the look at home.

1. Statement Red Lip

We can't talk about '90s makeup without talking about a bold red lip. Unlike in the current day and age, when it's often paired with equally eye-catching smoky eyeshadows and statement blushes, in the ‘90s it was all about keeping the rest of the face pared-back and minimal, so as to let the lips do the talking (pun intended).

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2. Colour Pop

Vivid eyes, cheeks and lips were certainly all the rage in the '90s, and I can see why. These playful colour pops take a makeup routine from basic to elevated, and although I’m not ready to go all out with the trend, this pretty pinky-purple look on Naomi Campbell is slowly convincing me to try it out.

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3. Frosted

With “cold-girl makeup,” one of TikTok's latest obsessions, it should come as no surprise that the frosty aesthetic is making a comeback this year. Available in the form of everything from lipsticks to eyeshadows to highlighters, this icy makeup trend perfectly balances feeling cool and classic.

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4. Ultra-Matte

As someone with extremely dry skin, I’ve always been skeptical about recreating the ultra-matte bases that dominated the mid-90s. However, there are now plenty of products that give that blurring effect without sucking out every bit of moisture from the skin. So, I’m ready to give this long-lasting, sophisticated look a try.

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5. Dark Lip Liner

I’m not trying to brag, but I’ve been rocking the dark lip liner trend since I was a young teen. Between ultra matte blacks, cool-toned browns and deep burgundy hues, this is a trend that I can guarantee will never date.

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6. Ultra-Thin Brows

If you have thin eyebrows as I do, then you’ll be pleased to know that the ultra-thin brow trend, championed by the likes of Victoria Beckham, is officially back for 2026.

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7. Smoky Eye

For those more formal occasions, there’s nothing quite like a smokey eye. Although this mesmerising eyeshadow look has technically never stopped trending, I, for one, will be taking a cue from the likes of ‘90s icons such as Cindy Crawford and recreating this more subtle look for summer evenings out.

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