Makeup Trends That Are Making a Comeback
If you’ve noticed your social feeds looking a little more sparkly, sculpted, or downright nostalgic lately, you’re not imagining things. From glossy lips to siren eyes, the beauty world is on a retro revival kick. Makeup trends from decades past are making bold comebacks, refreshed with a modern twist—and people are loving it.
But these aren't carbon copies of the past. They’re reimaginings: the same spirit, new textures, better formulas, and way more personal freedom. Whether you’re into minimalism or maximalism, there's something old (and new) for you.
So, what’s resurfacing—and why is it suddenly everywhere again?
1. Lip Gloss Lives Again
Remember the ultra-glossy lips of the early 2000s? They're back—but less sticky and more sophisticated. Today’s lip glosses come packed with hydrating ingredients and subtle shimmers that feel more polished than plastic.
Why it works now:
- Modern glosses are non-tacky and nourishing
- They're easy to swipe on and go—low effort, high shine
- Can be layered over lip liner or lipstick for custom looks
The glazed lip look is versatile, wearable, and just plain fun.
2. Blue Eyeshadow’s Bold Return
Once left behind in the '80s and early 2000s, blue eyeshadow is having a high-fashion renaissance. But don’t think frosty or overdone—this time, it’s strategic and intentional.
How it’s updated:
- Matte powder blues for a soft wash
- Electric cobalt liners for a pop of color
- Shimmery navy smoked out for modern drama
It’s no longer a faux pas. It’s a statement.
3. Blush—And Lots of It
Blush isn’t just back. It’s everywhere. High on the cheeks, over the nose, even on the temples. The “sunburnt” blush look has returned, along with cream and liquid formulas that give a dewy, second-skin glow.
Trending styles:
- Draped blush (a la the '80s) for sculpted cheekbones
- Cold-girl flush inspired by frosty mornings
- Monochromatic looks where blush and lips match
It’s mood-boosting, skin-brightening, and totally fresh.
4. Thin Brows (Yes, Really)
Before you panic—today’s thin brow revival isn’t about over-plucking to oblivion. Instead, it’s about a lighter brow look, often achieved with brow gels, concealers, or bleaching. Think editorial, not early-aughts over-tweezed.
How it’s evolved:
- Temporary styling instead of permanent shaping
- Paired with bold eyes or glossy lips for balance
- Celebrated as a creative choice—not a beauty standard
It’s not for everyone, but it’s definitely having a moment.
5. Grunge and Smudged Eyeliner
The '90s are back in full force, and nowhere is that more obvious than the rise of grungy eyeliner. Smudged, imperfect, slept-in liner is a deliberate look now—think soft rebellion, not raccoon eyes.
Popular pairings:
- Soft matte skin and flushed cheeks
- Neutral-toned lips for that “undone” vibe
- Kohls and pencils favored over sharp liquid liners
It’s smoky eye 2.0—effortless, sultry, and surprisingly wearable.
6. Metallic Everything
Metallics are no longer reserved for New Year’s Eve. From chrome nails to foil-finish shadows, metallic makeup is shining in everyday looks.
Modern takes:
- Rose gold lids with a wash of shimmer
- Silver accents in inner corners or as graphic liner
- Metallic highlighters for an otherworldly glow
It’s about playing with light and texture, not drowning in sparkle.
7. Brown Lipstick and Lip Liner
A beloved '90s staple, brown lips—especially paired with visible lip liner—have stormed back onto the scene. Thanks to the neutral-toned beauty wave, everyone’s embracing rich mochas, taupes, and deep caramels again.
Best of all:
- Brown works on every skin tone
- Liner-over-gloss is chic, not outdated
- It pairs perfectly with everything from full glam to no-makeup makeup
It’s nostalgic and flattering. A rare combo.
8. Powdery Matte Finishes
After years of dewy domination, matte is making a quiet return. But not the cakey, dry matte of 2016—today’s matte finishes are soft-focus, breathable, and modern.
Expect to see:
- Matte skin balanced with radiant eyes or lips
- Blurring foundations and powders that feel like velvet
- A shift from oily glow to controlled, soft-matte elegance
It’s a breath of fresh air for oily skin types—and a gentle nod to old-school glam.
Why the Comebacks?
These resurging trends are about more than nostalgia. They reflect a desire for expression, experimentation, and play—without the pressure of perfection. Beauty in 2024 is less about rules and more about remixing the past in ways that feel personal and fun.
Today’s makeup isn’t about fitting a mold. It’s about saying, “I remember this look—and I’m making it mine.”
So whether you’re dusting off your old gloss, reaching for a kohl pencil, or finally trying that blush-draping technique, go for it. The past never really goes out of style—it just waits for a new generation to make it shine again.