’90s beauty is forever iconic for lots of reasons, from hairstyles and colors to brow shapes and makeup styles. At the time, these looks defined the era, but in the decades that followed, they became much more than trends. We still swoon over the looks today. The ultimate calling card from the period, the ’90s lip combo, has returned as one of the most searched for looks, with over 19,000 Pinterest users searching for it. Deep brown liners and pinky nude lip shades lead the charge for this look.
Contouring was a staple in many runway looks from the era and was popularized by models like Linda Evangelista and Naomi Campbell and makeup artists like Kevyn Aucoin. The sculpting method used to enhance curves and highlight contrast was also used to define the ’90s lip. A dark espresso or chestnut liner instantly adds depth to your lips, while a smooth nude helps blend out harsh lines for a soft, supple look. Today’s aesthetic uses the same contoured method but finishes the look with a shiny gloss. Recreating a ’90s lip combo isn’t difficult when you have the right tools and shades. Below, we’ve gathered some essentials for nailing the look.