Supermodel beauty's back: how '90s glam shapes 2026

Forget fleeting nostalgia—the '90s supermodel aesthetic isn't just trending; it's fundamentally reshaping the beauty landscape of 2026. From Naomi Campbell’s signature lip to Cindy Crawford’s iconic blowout, the decade’s hallmarks are experiencing a sophisticated resurgence, influencing everything from TikTok feeds to high-fashion runways.

The enduring allure: why we're still obsessed

For years, the '90s have circled back, but this feels different. It's not a mere revival; it's a reinterpretation. The era’s beauty language—a delicate balance of boldness and naturalism—resonates in a world craving authenticity and effortless chic. As Ash K. Holm, a leading makeup artist, observes, “The look was all about a balance between bold and natural, emphasizing certain features while maintaining an air of effortless elegance—a philosophy remarkably relevant today.”

Sculpted cheeks and matte mastery

The foundation of the supermodel look? Sculpted cheeks. Valeria Ferreira, another sought-after artist, emphasizes the importance of defining bone structure, a key characteristic of the era. “Flawless skin, perhaps punctuated by a few freckles for a contemporary twist, is paramount,” she notes. But it isn't just about contour; it’s about warmth. Harris recommends using a soft, fluffy brush and bronzer to sculpt the cheeks and subtly warm the forehead. The complexion itself leans towards a soft matte finish, a stark contrast to the heavy glosses of the previous decade. Prada Beauty’s Reset Rebalancing Setting Powder and Armani Beauty’s Luminous Silk Natural Glow Blurring Foundation are modern staples for achieving this polished, yet understated glow.

Eyeshadows and frosty accents: a subtle sparkle

The eyes weren’t about maximalism. Instead, cool-toned browns and lighter neutrals subtly enhanced the eye shape. A rich brown or smokey grey shadow along the lash line, combined with frosty accents—think blue, periwinkle, or copper—added a touch of intrigue. Chanel’s Rouge Coco Ultra Hydrating Lip Colour in Rotonde provided a vampy finish, often paired with a darker lip liner for dimension. The key? A soft hand to avoid veering into maximalism.

The hair: volume, symmetry, and sleekness

The '90s weren't just about makeup; the hair played an equally vital role. Ricky Fraser, a celebrity hairstylist, points to the era's icons—Claudia Schiffer, Yasmeen Ghauri—as ultimate inspiration. “It was an era that exuded confidence and power, while still owning your femininity,” he says. Symmetry was key, with the sleek middle part now experiencing a significant return. Achieving that signature bold volume, Fraser suggests, requires starting with clean, wet hair and setting sections with rollers, or opting for a multistyler tool for at-home styling.

Modernizing the icons: a few key tips

But how to translate this iconic beauty for 2026? Taylour Chanel suggests embracing browns and smokey tones—a nod to the