The 1990s were a time of experimentation and self-expression, and nowhere was this more evident than in the realm of beauty and fashion. From the punk-inspired rebellion to the glamorous pop princesses, the '90s lip looks were bold, daring, and undeniably iconic. Fast forward to today, and these trends have made a triumphant return, with a modern twist. In this article, we will delve into the lip looks of some influential '90s figures and explore how you can recreate and reinvent their signature styles. Get ready to take a nostalgic trip down memory lane and embrace your inner '90s babe!

Nancy Downs, The Craft: Grunge Chic

Nicki Swift

Nancy Downs, portrayed by Fairuza Balk in the cult classic film "The Craft," embodied the edgy and rebellious spirit of the '90s. Her punk-inspired style featured deep, dark lips that exuded an air of mystery and allure. To recreate Nancy's lip look, opt for a matte black lipstick or a deep burgundy shade. Apply the colour with precision, using a lip liner to define the shape and prevent any smudging. Finish off the look with a touch of clear lip gloss on the centre of your lips for added dimension and shine.

Cher Horowitz, Clueless: Pretty In Pink

Showbiz Cheat Sheet

If there's one person who epitomises '90s preppy chic, it's Cher Horowitz, the fashion-forward protagonist of the beloved film "Clueless." Cher's signature lip look consisted of a glossy, pink-toned nude shade that perfectly complemented her flawless complexion. To achieve Cher's timeless lip look, start by prepping your lips with lip balm for a smooth canvas. Then, apply a creamy nude lipstick with a hint of pink undertones. Top it off with a high-shine lip gloss to achieve that coveted glossy finish. This effortless yet sophisticated lip look is ideal for both day and night.

Mariah Carey: Diva Red

Music Feeds

As one of the most influential pop stars of the '90s, Mariah Carey not only dominated the music charts but also left a lasting impact on beauty trends. Known for her glamorous and diva-worthy makeup, Mariah often showcased bold, statement-making lip looks. One of her signature styles was a classic red lip that exuded confidence and sophistication. To recreate Mariah's iconic red lip, choose a highly pigmented, long-lasting red lipstick with a creamy texture. Apply the lipstick directly from the bullet or use a lip brush for precision. Pair it with a neutral eye makeup look to let your lips take centre stage.

Gwen Stefani: Rocker Glam

TODAY

Gwen Stefani, the lead vocalist of No Doubt and a style icon in her own right, rocked a bold red pout throughout the '90s. This signature lip look perfectly complemented her punk-rock style and added a touch of glamour to her edgy persona. To recreate Gwen's iconic red lip, choose matte or semi-matte lipstick in a vibrant red shade. Outline your lips with a matching lip liner for precision, then fill in the colour, ensuring a flawless finish. Pair this striking lip with minimal eye makeup to let your pout take centre stage.

Angela Chase's Subtle Brown Lip

Bustle

Angela Chase, the relatable protagonist of the TV series "My So-Called Life," showcased a more subdued and grunge-inspired lip look. Her character often wore a subtle brown shade that perfectly captured the effortless and carefree vibe of the '90s. To recreate Angela's lip look with a modern twist, opt for a warm-toned nude or a soft terracotta shade. Choose lipstick with a creamy, satin finish for more comfortable wear. This lip look pairs well with minimal eye makeup, lightly defined brows, and a hint of bronzer for a fresh-faced appearance. Embrace the understated elegance of Angela's lip style and exude an effortless coolness.

Buffy Summers' Dark Vampy Lip

Slash Film

Buffy Summers, the badass vampire slayer from the cult TV series "Buffy the Vampire Slayer," showcased a bold and dramatic lip look. Her character often sported dark and vampy shades, adding an edgy touch to her fierce persona. To recreate Buffy's lip look with a contemporary twist, experiment with deep burgundy, plum, or even blackberry shades. Opt for a matte or semi-matte finish to achieve that intense and long-lasting effect. Keep the rest of your makeup minimal to allow your lips to make a powerful statement. This lip look is perfect for evening events or when you want to channel your inner rebellious spirit.

Conclusion

The 1990s were a decade that revolutionised fashion and beauty, and the lip looks from that era continue to inspire and captivate. Whether you prefer the bold red lips of Gwen Stefani, the subtle brown hues of Angela Chase, or the dark vampy shades of Buffy Summers, there's a '90s lip look for everyone. By reinventing and updating these iconic styles, you can incorporate a touch of nostalgia into your makeup routine while staying on-trend. Embrace your inner punk spirit and experiment with these timeless lip looks. Are you ready to rock the '90s like never before?

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