Is GRUNGE makeup having a comeback in 2024?

Fashion and beauty trends are cyclical, often witnessing the revival of styles from the past. In recent times, one such trend making a notable comeback is grunge makeup. Defined by its edgy, rebellious, and effortlessly cool aesthetic, grunge makeup dominated the 1990s fashion scene. As an alternative makeup brand, grunge never really left our radar. However, as we navigate through 2024, it becomes increasingly evident that the grunge era is experiencing a resurgence, captivating a new generation of makeup enthusiasts. This article explores the reasons behind the return of grunge makeup, the key elements of the trend, and how it has evolved to suit the contemporary beauty landscape.

The Rise of Grunge Makeup in the 90s:

Grunge makeup first gained prominence in the early 1990s, coinciding with the alternative rock music movement. Popularized by bands like Nirvana and Pearl Jam, grunge culture became synonymous with a disheveled, anti-establishment look. Makeup played a crucial role in expressing this rebellious spirit, characterized by dark, smudged eye shadows, matte lips, and an overall minimalist approach. The androgynous appeal of grunge makeup challenged conventional beauty standards, making it a defining aspect of the era.

The Contemporary Grunge Revival:

Fast forward to 2024, and grunge makeup is making a compelling comeback. The revival of this trend can be attributed to a desire for nostalgia and a yearning for the authenticity associated with the 90s. As the beauty industry constantly evolves, trends tend to recycle, and grunge makeup is finding a new audience who appreciates its nonchalant, raw charm. Influencers and celebrities are embracing the grunge aesthetic, showcasing its adaptability to the modern age.

Key Elements of Grunge Makeup:

Smoky Eyes and Dark Hues: The hallmark of grunge makeup lies in its dark, smoky eyes. Deep, earthy tones such as browns, plums, and charcoals are applied generously around the eyes, often intentionally smudged for a lived-in appearance. This technique adds a touch of mystery and rebellion, capturing the essence of grunge.

Our Vampyrism eyeshadow palette contains the perfect hues for the most grungey aesthetic. With dark cranberries, and muted olives it really has a look for every occasion.

Matte Lips: Grunge makeup typically features matte lip colours in shades like deep burgundy, brown, or even black. This departure from glossy finishes enhances the overall muted and understated vibe, creating a bold contrast to the nude lip hype of recent years.


Why not check out our Air Matte Liquid Lipstick in the shade Mocha for a perfectly cool brown shade, that's easy to wear and suits the look.


Minimalist Complexion: Grunge beauty emphasizes a natural, slightly undone complexion. Heavy foundation is eschewed in favor of a more effortless, barely-there look. Imperfections are embraced, and the focus is on achieving a flawlessly imperfect finish.


Why not check out our Second Skin Bronzer. Use a large brush to dust over natural skin, to bring it to life, without overdoing the look of the skin. 


Edgy Eyeliner: A defining feature of grunge makeup is the bold use of eyeliner. Thick lines, both on the upper and lower lash lines, contribute to the rebellious allure. Winged liners and messy, undone strokes perfectly capture the grunge spirit.

Why not check out our INFINITY eyeliner pen for those winged lines? Pair it with the Infinity gel eyeliner in the waterline for the perfect grungey eyeliner.

While the core elements of grunge makeup remain intact, the trend has undergone subtle adaptations to align with contemporary beauty standards. The incorporation of cruelty-free and vegan products, the emphasis on skincare, and the use of more refined techniques have brought grunge makeup into the 21st century without compromising its essence.

In 2024, grunge makeup is undeniably experiencing a revival, captivating a new generation while invoking a sense of nostalgia for those who witnessed its heyday. The trend's ability to seamlessly blend rebellion with a minimalist aesthetic resonates with the evolving beauty preferences of today. As makeup enthusiasts continue to explore diverse styles, grunge makeup stands as a testament to the enduring allure of past eras, proving that beauty trends are, indeed, cyclical. 

However, as we always say - wear what you like, when you like as personal STYLE never goes out of fashion.