Everything old is new again, especially in the world of beauty. From voluminous hair to bold lips and graphic eyeliner, retro beauty trends are making a major comeback this year, with modern twists that feel fresh and wearable. Thanks to social media, celebrity style, and the nostalgia boom, we’re seeing decades-old looks find new life in today’s beauty scene. Ready to throw it back in style? Discover the top retro beauty trends making waves right now, and how to rock them in 2025.
1. ’60s-Inspired Graphic Eyeliner
The swinging ’60s are back in a big way, especially when it comes to eye makeup. Think bold cat eyes, cut creases, and floating eyeliner in dramatic black or fun colors. Inspired by icons like Twiggy and Brigitte Bardot, this look is all about sharp lines and high contrast.
Modern twist: Use gel or liquid liners with clean precision. Add a pop of white or pastel on the waterline for a playful update.
2. Fluffy, Full Brows (aka ‘80s Brows)
Goodbye, overly sculpted Instagram brows. Hello, natural, full arches. Inspired by the bold brows of Brooke Shields in the ’80s, today’s version is brushed-up, slightly untamed, and totally effortless.
Modern twist: Use a tinted brow gel or wax to enhance your shape without overfilling. Think soft and fluffy, not blocky or overdrawn.
3. Blush Draping from the ’70s and ’80s
Once considered a dated makeup technique, blush draping- sweeping color from the cheeks up toward the temples- is back with a vengeance. Originally popular in the disco era, this sculpting technique is now being used for a fresh, youthful flush.
Modern twist: Use creamy blush formulas in berry, coral, or peach for a seamless, glowy finish. Bonus: it doubles as contour and color.
4. Retro Hair Accessories
From silk scarves and scrunchies to barrettes and headbands, vintage-inspired hair accessories are all over TikTok and runways. Whether you’re channeling a ’90s cool girl or a ‘60s mod moment, these accessories are both functional and stylish.
Modern twist: Pair your retro hair clip with sleek buns or soft waves for a polished but playful vibe.
5. Red Lips à la Old Hollywood
There’s nothing more timeless than a red lip, and this year it’s getting the full Marilyn Monroe and Audrey Hepburn treatment. Classic red tones with blue undertones are back in rotation, especially for evening looks or power dressing moments.
Modern twist: Keep the rest of your makeup minimal, just flawless skin and mascara- to let your lips do the talking.
6. Glowy Skin, the ’90s Way
Forget ultra-matte finishes. The ’90s taught us that healthy, radiant skin is always in. This year, it’s all about achieving that dewy, fresh-faced look reminiscent of supermodels like Naomi Campbell and Cindy Crawford.
Modern twist: Layer hydrating primers, skin tints, and cream highlighters to achieve a “your skin but better” glow without the glitter.
7. French Manicures (Yes, Really)
Once considered outdated, the French manicure is having a serious glow-up. Celebs and influencers are bringing back the look with thinner tips, unexpected colors, and modern shapes.
Modern twist: Try a micro French, reverse French, or colored tips like neon, chocolate brown, or pastel blue to breathe new life into the classic.
8. Voluminous Hair and Bouncy Blowouts
Big, bouncy hair is back- and we’re loving every second of it. Inspired by ‘90s bombshells and even ‘70s glam, volume is the name of the game. Curtain bangs, layers, and round-brush blowouts are the go-to styles for this trend.
Modern twist: Use modern hot tools like blowout brushes or curlers and finish with lightweight volumizing spray for movement without the crunch.
Nostalgia Never Looked So Good
Retro beauty isn’t about copying the past—it’s about reinventing it with a fresh edge. These comebacks give you the best of both worlds: timeless glamour with a modern sensibility. Whether you lean into one trend or mix and match across decades, there’s never been a better time to have fun with your look.