Channel '90s Supermodel Glam With These Makeup Essentials For Winter

While plucking eyebrows into oblivion might've been one of the worst beauty trends of the '90s, we can't deny that this era has otherwise served looks that have stood the test of time.

Think fall classics such as brown lipsticks, vibrant eyeshadows in cool tones, party-ready glitter, and a super sexy eyeliner that's more often than not tastefully smudged, creating an effortless yet alluring effect that seems to be rising in popularity three decades later.

But besides the bold makeup choices, let's not forget that the '90s were also known for their minimalist, natural makeup looks, with supermodels like Cindy Crawford, Kate Moss, and Naomi Campbell in the center of what was dubbed the seductive party girl aesthetic. Glowing skin, flushed cheeks, glossy lips, and shiny eyelids, often paired with minimalistic clothing choices, were the go-to look for a night out. It was all about looking effortlessly chic yet still glamorous.

So, if you're ready to rock the '90s supermodel glam look this winter, here are some important details you should know, along with a few makeup essentials you should add to your cart ASAP.

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Mastering the Flawless Base

While a matte base was the go-to look of the '90s, supermodel glam is anything but dull and flat.

Famous for breaking the oil-free obsession, muses of the era embraced a radiant, healthy-looking skin that glowed in all its natural glory under the studio lights. 

To achieve that naturally radiant complexion that gained supermodel and fashion icon Kate Moss the nickname "baby-faced Kate" during the '90s, start by prepping your skin with a hydrating primer. The Glow Recipe Niacinamide Dew Drops Serum ($35) is a fantastic option as it contains hyaluronic acid and niacinamide that will hydrate your skin and make it appear plump and smooth while helping other complexion products grip to it for the day (and night).

Follow it up with a dab of lightweight foundation, such as the NARS Light Reflecting Foundation ($50), for a glowy and luminous complexion that won't exacerbate any dry skin patches that come hand in hand with the colder weather.

Next, apply a single dot of concealer under your eyes, around the nose area, and any other areas that need extra brightening. The ILIA True Skin Serum Concealer ($32) is an excellent choice, as it has minimal coverage that won't overpower your look and will also provide a skin-brightening effect due to containing vitamin C.

Eyes: A Nod to Retro Allure

When it comes to '90s supermodel glam, the eyes should always be a focal point. Whether you're doing a classic smokey eye or are opting for a more natural shade with a shimmery pop, the key is to keep it soft and blended.

Start by prepping your lids with an eyeshadow primer to ensure your look stays in place for the entire night. Then, grab a palette with classic '90s shades such as browns, taupes, and grays. The Ethereal Eyes eyeshadow palette from Makeup by Mario ($68) is a perfect option, with its range of matte and shimmery shades that can be easily blended for a seamless look.

For added drama, top off your eyeshadow with some glitter, preferably in a cool, feminine shade such as lilac or violet, for which the shade Cloud, a shimmering lavender with gold pearl by Stila ($25), is an excellent choice.

Last but not least, don't forget that no '90s supermodel look is complete without some eyeliner, so grab your favorite black pencil and line your upper lash line, smudging it out for that effortless yet seductive effect. The Lancôme Le Stylo Long Lasting Eyeliner ($28) is a versatile option that can create both sharp lines and smudged edges with ease.

Finish off the look with a few coats of volumizing mascara, such as YSL Lash Clash Extreme Volume Mascara ($29), to add that extra oomph to your lashes.

Lips: The Definitive '90s Statement

While the era's obsession with brown, brick, and red shades was undoubtedly an inspiration for lush, supermodel lippies, talented makeup artists took things to another level by introducing the famous two-toned lip that became the ultimate symbol of '90s beauty.

The iconic lip that recently made a massive comeback consists of lining your lips with a lip liner that's two or three shades deeper than your natural lip color and blending the lines toward the center of your mouth. Then, use a lighter shade of lipstick or lip gloss, such as the Fenty Beauty Gloss Bomb ($21), to give your lips that irresistible shine that will make them the star of your '90s supermodel glam look.

Cheeks and Contours: A Subtle Art

To subtly define your features without leaving any harsh lines behind, use a cream contour such as the NUDESTIX Tinted Blur Contour Sculpting Stick ($32).

Start by applying the tiniest amount of contour to the hollows of your cheeks and blending it toward your temples. Then, highlight the high points of your face, such as your cheekbones, nose, and cupid's bow, with a dab of cream or liquid highlighter to avoid powdery finishes that might make your skin look like plastic.

Finally, to achieve that natural-looking flush on your cheeks, use a cream blush, such as the Melting Cream Blush by Rare Beauty ($22), and blend it out with your fingers for a soft, diffused look that will add a touch of radiance and warmth to your complexion, without overpowering the other elements of your makeup.

Closing Thoughts

While the '90s beauty scene was a mixture of bold, matte looks and natural, glowing aesthetics, the supermodel glam trend will always be remembered as one of the most iconic and timeless beauty styles to date.

Perfect for any occasion, whether you're heading to a NYE party or want to elevate your everyday look, mastering the '90s supermodel glam is all about effortless elegance and a touch of seduction.

So next time you're feeling nostalgic for the decade of grunge and minimalistic fashion, channel your inner supermodel and embrace this iconic beauty trend with confidence.

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