The 1990s were a transformative decade for beauty, giving rise to a multitude of memorable trends that resonate even today, such as the grunge-inspired looks and the minimalist chic aesthetics. Among these, the standout trend that continues to enchant beauty aficionados is the captivating Latte Makeup style. This look artfully blends warm, earthy tones that evoke the comforting hues of a creamy latte, while also paying tribute to the voluminous hairstyles that defined the era. In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through the essential steps to create this effortlessly chic makeup style, complemented perfectly by the iconic 90s hair, featuring expert insights from Sarah Jossel’s Edit as highlighted in her column in The Sunday Times Style.
Step 1: Create a Radiant Base for Flawless Makeup
Start your beauty regimen by preparing your skin with the MZ Skin Hydrate & Nourish Hyaluronic & Retinol Day Moisturiser SPF 30. This product not only hydrates but also lays the perfect foundation for a smooth makeup application. For an extra layer of luminosity, apply the Supergoop! Glowscreen SPF 30, which offers a subtle glow while protecting your skin from harmful UV rays. Next, enhance your complexion with the Collection Cosmetics Gorgeous Glow Filter Finish in Fair/Medium to achieve that coveted radiant finish. Finally, add a touch of magic with Trinny London Sheer Shimmer in Katie on your key facial features to impart a delicate shimmer that reflects light beautifully.
To maintain your skin’s glow, incorporate Paula’s Choice 10% Azelaic Acid Booster into your nighttime routine, which helps with skin texture and tone. Seal in moisture overnight with the Elizabeth Arden Retinol Ceramide Capsules Line Erasing Night Serum, ensuring you wake up to a refreshed and radiant complexion ready for the day ahead.
Step 2: Mastering Subtle Contouring Techniques
Embrace the essence of 90s beauty with the art of subtle contouring. To add depth and dimension to your facial structure, utilize the Spectrum Collections B06 Tall Tapered Blender Brush to seamlessly blend a matte bronzer along your cheekbones, jawline, and forehead. This technique enhances your natural features while maintaining a soft, approachable look that is characteristic of the era. Aim for a harmonious blend to ensure there are no harsh lines, allowing your makeup to enhance your beauty rather than mask it. Remember, the key to effective contouring is to build the product gradually, ensuring your look remains fresh and effortless.
Step 3: Achieve Warm, Earthy Eye Makeup
To create captivating eyes that reflect the warmth of a latte, select the SURRATT BEAUTY Smoky Eye Baton to craft a palette of earthy tones. Begin by applying medium-toned shades across your eyelids, gradually deepening the crease for a beautifully blended transition. This method not only enhances the shape of your eyes but also adds an element of sophistication. For an authentic 90s touch, use the shimmer end of the Smoky Eye Baton to highlight the inner corners and the center of your eyelids, introducing a playful glimmer that captures attention and adds dimension to your eye makeup.
Step 4: Define Your Brows for a Bold Look
Bold brows are a hallmark of 90s beauty and are essential for achieving the Latte Makeup aesthetic. Define and fill in your brows using a product that complements your natural hair color and desired intensity. Whether you prefer a pencil, gel, or powder, ensure that your brows are well-groomed and shaped to frame your face beautifully. The right brow shape can enhance your overall look, making your eyes pop and adding a touch of drama that is both timeless and trendy.
Step 5: Enhance Your Lashes for a Wide-Eyed Effect
Elevate your eye makeup by applying several coats of your favorite mascara, focusing on lengthening and volumizing your lashes for that quintessential wide-eyed 90s effect. For added drama and definition, consider using individual false lashes to create a fuller lash line without overwhelming your natural beauty. This technique allows for a customizable look that can be tailored to suit any occasion, whether you’re going for a casual day out or a glamorous evening event.
Step 6: Embrace Latte-Inspired Cheeks and Lips
For your cheeks and lips, select warm, muted brown tones or rich terracotta shades that resonate with the latte theme. Begin by outlining your lips with a coordinating lip liner to create a defined shape, then fill in with a creamy lipstick for a polished finish. For a natural flush on your cheeks, reach for the Saie Beauty Dew Blush, which provides a soft, dewy finish that complements the entire look beautifully. This combination of colors not only evokes the warmth of a cozy café drink but also ties the entire makeup look together seamlessly.
Step 7: Achieve Iconic 90s Voluminous Hair
To capture the quintessential 90s voluminous hairstyle, start by nourishing your hair with the Garnier Ultimate Blends Smoothing Hair Food Coconut & Macadamia 3-in-1 Hair Mask, which hydrates and revitalizes your locks. Before you begin styling, apply the Bumble and bumble Heat Shield Thermal Protection Mist to protect your hair from heat damage. For that iconic 90s volume, use a large-barreled curling iron to create loose, bouncy waves that exude effortless elegance. This hairstyle not only complements the Latte Makeup look but also serves as a nostalgic nod to the trends that defined a generation.
With the Latte Makeup look, you can blend the beauty trends of the 90s with a modern twist that feels fresh and exciting. By following the expert tips from the Sarah Jossel Edit, you’ll have all the tools you need to recreate this nostalgic yet chic look effortlessly. So indulge in the nostalgia while embracing the current beauty landscape, ensuring you remain stylish and timeless.


