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The 90s were a time of bold fashion choices, innovative music, and unforgettable beauty trends. It was an era where experimentation reigned supreme, and the mantra seemed to be “more is more.” From the runways to the school hallways, these beauty trends were embraced with enthusiasm and a sense of daring. As we look back on these iconic looks, it’s hard to believe that some of them were ever considered stylish. Join us on a nostalgic journey through 13 beauty trends from the 90s that, for better or worse, left an indelible mark on our collective memory. Whether you’re here for a trip down memory lane or to marvel at the evolution of beauty standards, one thing is for sure: the 90s were a wild ride.
1. Frosted Tips
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Remember when the pinnacle of cool was having frosted tips? This trend was all about bleaching the ends of your hair to achieve a sun-kissed look, popularized by boy bands and heartthrobs alike. While it seemed effortlessly stylish back then, looking back, it’s hard to ignore the harsh contrast and brassy tones. Despite its fall from grace, frosted tips will forever be a nostalgic nod to 90s teen rebellion.
2. Thin Eyebrows
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The 90s had a love affair with pencil-thin eyebrows, and almost every celebrity of the era sported this look. This trend often involved over-plucking to achieve that barely-there arch, leaving brows looking sparse and drawn-on. Fast forward to today, and full, natural brows are the beauty standard, making this 90s trend a head-scratcher. Many are still in the process of growing out the damage done from those overzealous tweezing sessions.
3. Body Glitter
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Body glitter was a must-have for any 90s party or dance. Whether it was smeared on your arms, décolletage, or sprinkled in your hair, more was always better. This sparkly obsession didn’t just stay confined to makeup bags but was a staple in every beauty routine. Although it left a trail of shimmer everywhere, it was undeniably fun and made everyone feel like a disco ball.
4. Dark Lip Liner
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A defining trend of the 90s was dark lip liner paired with a lighter lipstick or even just gloss (remember Juicy Tubes?). This stark contrast was seen on everyone from Gwen Stefani to Jennifer Lopez. It created a bold outline that sometimes looked more like a coloring mistake than a beauty statement. Today, seamless blending and matching shades are the norm, but this retro trend still has its charm for themed parties.
5. Crimped Hair
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Crimped hair was the go-to hairstyle for any girl wanting to add some texture and volume to her look. Achieved with a special crimping iron, this style left hair with a zigzag pattern that was anything but subtle. Celebrities and everyday fashionistas alike rocked this quirky look, making it a memorable, albeit questionable, trend. Nowadays, heatless waves and natural curls are favored over this structured style.
6. Butterfly Clips
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These tiny, colorful hair accessories were an essential part of every 90s girl’s beauty arsenal. Butterfly clips were used to pin back sections of hair, creating playful and intricate styles. Often worn in clusters, they added a whimsical touch to any outfit. Though they’ve fluttered out of mainstream fashion, they occasionally make a comeback in nostalgic throwbacks.
7. Blue Eyeshadow
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Blue eyeshadow was a bold statement piece in the 90s makeup world. From electric blues to pastel hues, this trend was all about making your eyes pop with color. While today’s makeup trends lean towards neutral and smoky tones, the vibrant blue shades were a staple of 90s beauty. It might seem outrageous now, but it was a fun way to experiment with color back in the day.
8. Gelled Hair
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Gelled hair was the go-to style for many in the 90s, epitomizing the era’s love for sleek and structured looks. This trend was all about achieving that perfectly spiked or scrunched, rock-hard finish courtesy of an abundance of hair gel. Whether it was the gravity-defying spikes, the slicked-back styles, or sticky curls, gelled hair was a staple for both men and women. Celebrities like David Beckham and the Backstreet Boys popularized these looks, making them a must-try for anyone wanting to stay on-trend. While today’s hair trends favor more natural and touchable styles, the gelled hair of the 90s remains a nostalgic reminder of the decade’s unique fashion sensibilities.
9. Wacky Updos
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From high ponytails to flat twists and swept back hair with tendrils perfectly falling down your face, the 90s was an era of embarrassing updos. Space buns also were a funky and playful hairstyle that took the 90s by storm. Worn by celebrities like the Spice Girls, this look involved parting the hair into two buns on the top of the head. It was a cute and quirky alternative to the standard ponytail or updo. While not as common today, space buns remain a fun choice for festivals and costume parties.
10. Metallic Lipstick
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Metallic lipstick added a futuristic flair to 90s beauty routines. Available in an array of shades from silver to bronze, these lipsticks gave a shiny, otherworldly effect. It was perfect for those who wanted to make a bold statement and stand out from the crowd. Though it’s rare to see such dramatic metallics in everyday wear now, the trend occasionally resurfaces in more subdued forms.
11. Chunky Highlights
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Chunky highlights were all about high contrast and bold stripes of color. This trend involved thick sections of hair being dyed in lighter shades, creating a stark contrast against the natural hair color. Popularized by celebrities like Kelly Clarkson, it was a way to add dimension and drama to any hairstyle. Girls everywhere used products like Sun-In to get the perfect streaks. Today, more subtle balayage and ombre techniques are preferred, making chunky highlights a distinct relic of the 90s.
12. Overly Powdered Faces
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The 90s were marked by a matte makeup finish, achieved with liberal use of powder. This trend aimed to eliminate any hint of shine, resulting in a flat, often cakey look. The obsession with powder left many with a mask-like complexion that lacked the natural glow we seek today. Modern beauty trends now embrace dewy, luminous skin, making the overly powdered face a thing of the past.
13. French Manicures
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The French manicure was the epitome of nail elegance in the 90s, often accompanied by fake tips. Characterized by a natural nail base with white tips, it was a popular choice. This trend was a favorite for weddings, proms, and everyday wear alike. While French manicures are still popular, they have evolved with variations in color and design, leaving the classic 90s version looking a bit dated.
Beauty Faux Pas or Iconic Era?
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Looking back at these 90s beauty trends, it’s clear that the decade was a time of bold experimentation and unique styles. While some of these looks have become iconic, others make us wonder, “What were we thinking?” Nevertheless, they all hold a special place in the nostalgia of 90s fashion and beauty. So, whether you’re reminiscing or cringing, these trends remind us of a time when beauty was all about having fun and expressing individuality.
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Teri Monroe started her career in communications working for local government and nonprofits. Today, she is a freelance finance and lifestyle writer and small business owner. In her spare time, she loves golfing with her husband, taking her dog Milo on long walks, and playing pickleball with friends.
