Grunge Makeup Is Back: Why the 90s Look Is Trending in 2025

From Rebellion to Runways – The Evolution of a Bold Aesthetic

Fashion trends are known to recycle, but in 2025, one revival has sparked excitement, nostalgia, and controversy all at once: grunge makeup. What started in the 1990s as an anti-establishment, messy, and rebellious look is now returning to mainstream beauty culture. But unlike its original raw form, today’s version—sometimes called “clean grunge”—is polished, curated, and social-media ready.

This raises an important question: Has grunge makeup lost its authentic edge, or is it simply evolving to fit a new generation?

What Is Grunge Makeup?

Grunge makeup first rose to prominence in the early 1990s alongside the alternative rock scene and youth counterculture. Inspired by the likes of Kurt Cobain, Courtney Love, and the underground punk movement, it embodied rebellion against the polished perfection of mainstream beauty standards.

The look typically included:

• Smudged eyeliner that looked slept-in
• Dark lipstick shades like plum, burgundy, or black
• Pale or minimal foundation to keep it raw
• Messy brows and undone hair to reject conventional grooming

At its core, grunge wasn’t just about makeup—it was about rejecting the idea that beauty had to be flawless, feminine, or commercial. It was messy on purpose, a visual protest against the glossy magazines of the time.

Why Grunge Makeup Is Trending Again in 2025

Fast forward to 2025, and the rise of grunge makeup is tied to several cultural shifts:

Nostalgia for the 90s – Just as fashion trends like baggy jeans and chunky sneakers have returned, makeup trends are also being revived. Many Gen Z and young Millennials find comfort in styles that remind them of a simpler, pre-digital era.

Social Media Influence – Platforms like TikTok and Instagram have fueled the resurgence by showcasing “grunge makeup tutorials.” The hashtag #GrungeMakeup has millions of views, with influencers blending smudgy eyeliner looks into more refined versions.

Rebellion in a Different Form – While the original grunge was about rejecting perfection, today’s revival reflects rebellion against hyper-glamorous, AI-filtered beauty standards. In a world where flawless skin and perfect brows dominate, smudged eyeliner and imperfect lipstick feel refreshing again.

The “Clean Grunge” Debate

One of the most controversial aspects of the trend is the rise of “clean grunge.” Beauty brands and influencers have reimagined the aesthetic, replacing raw imperfection with carefully curated smudges and deliberate messiness.

Critics argue this strips away the authenticity of the movement. What was once a rejection of beauty norms has now become another product marketed by the beauty industry. Instead of truly messy eyeliner, many tutorials teach how to create the illusion of messiness while still being camera-ready.

Supporters, however, argue that trends always evolve. They believe “clean grunge” allows modern audiences to embrace the aesthetic without completely abandoning mainstream appeal. For many, it’s less about rebellion and more about self-expression.

Celebrity and Runway Influence

The trend has also gained traction because of its presence in celebrity culture and high fashion. Stars like Billie Eilish, Halsey, and Olivia Rodrigo have experimented with grunge-inspired makeup on red carpets and in music videos.

Runway shows from designers such as Marc Jacobs and Alexander McQueen have featured models with smudged eyeliner, dark lips, and pale skin. However, unlike the 90s, these looks are paired with luxury outfits, showing how grunge has transitioned from street rebellion to high-fashion chic.

Fans vs. Critics: The Ongoing Conversation

The return of grunge makeup has divided opinions online.

• Fans love the nostalgia and freedom it brings. Many say it feels like a breath of fresh air compared to overly polished beauty standards.
• Critics claim it’s another example of mainstream culture commercializing a movement that was once authentic. Some argue that packaging grunge as a “trend” undermines the very spirit of grunge itself.

A popular TikTok comment summed it up perfectly: “Grunge was never supposed to be perfect. If it’s curated, it’s not really grunge—it’s cosplay.”

Beyond the Makeup: A Symbol of Expression

What makes this revival so fascinating is that it’s more than just eyeliner and lipstick. It’s part of a larger cultural cycle of rebellion and reinvention. Just as the 90s youth used grunge to push back against conformity, today’s generation is using it to push back against digital perfection and beauty filters.

Grunge makeup, whether raw or polished, is becoming a visual statement of individuality. In an age where artificial intelligence, photo editing, and flawless beauty apps dominate, imperfection is starting to look revolutionary again.

The Future of Grunge Makeup

Will grunge makeup remain a long-lasting movement in beauty, or will it fade as quickly as it returned? Experts believe that while the “clean grunge” version may cycle out, the core message—embracing imperfection—will remain powerful.

Whether you prefer authentic 90s smudges or TikTok-inspired clean grunge, the trend proves one thing: beauty doesn’t have to be perfect to be impactful.

Final Thoughts

The return of grunge makeup in 2025 is more than just a nostalgic throwback. It’s a reminder that beauty trends are often born from cultural expression, not just cosmetics. For some, it’s a fashion statement. For others, it’s an identity.

And while the debate about authenticity will continue, one thing is certain—grunge makeup has once again found its place in the spotlight, reminding us that rebellion will always have a place in beauty culture.