Lipliner without lipstick? This 90s beauty hack is making a comeback

The 90s have officially dialled in, and they’re bringing back one of their baddest beauty flexes: lip liner worn solo. Once the signature of supermodels and pop divas, the lip-liner-only look is making a sizzling comeback with a softer, more wearable vibe. This time around, it’s less about razor-sharp outlines and more about subtle contouring, diffused edges, and enhancing your natural lip shape. Think ‘I woke up like this’—but with precision.

We tapped two top makeup pros to spill the tea on why this nostalgic trend is having a moment again and how to nail it like it’s 2025, not 1995.

The renaissance

Back in the 90s, lip liner was anything but subtle. Dark brown or raisin pencils paired with pale or beige lipstick created an ultra-contrasted, edgy look. Picture Naomi Campbell’s mocha pout or Pamela Anderson’s dramatically overlined lips. It was bold, it was glam—and it was intense. Fast forward to today, and the lip-liner-only look has had a glow-up. Now, it’s all about softly blurred edges, a hint of colour, and the perfect balance of definition and nonchalance.

“Wearing lip liner without lipstick creates a natural, fuller-lip effect while letting you play with bold or neutral tones,” explains Mariyam Nagani, Makeup Director at Dessange. “For a modern twist, opt for softly blended edges and hydrating liners that don’t dry out your lips. It’s an effortless, chic way to enhance your pout with minimal effort.”

Nail the look

Unlike its predecessor, today’s lipliner trend is all about subtlety and blending like a pro. According to Saikat Chakraborty, National Artist at MAC Cosmetics, the biggest faux pas people make is drawing a stark outline and just leaving it there. “Apply your liner in light, feathery strokes rather than one precise line. Then, take your fingertip, a brush, or even just press your lips together to soften it,” he advises. The result? Effortlessly defined, perfectly imperfect lips.

For a next-level blurred effect, Chakraborty recommends using a fluffy eyeshadow brush. “This keeps it looking natural and lived-in, not like you’re trying too hard,” he explains. To avoid the dreaded dry-lip look, he suggests dabbing a bit of balm or clear gloss in the centre. “That way, it looks intentional—not like you just forgot the lipstick.” The key here? Make it look cool, not unfinished.

2025’s hottest shades

Sure, brown lip liner is the ultimate throwback, but the 2025 colour palette offers far more variety. “Brown is still the classic ‘90s shade, but in 2025, we’re seeing so much more range,” says Chakraborty. “Cool-toned brown or taupe gives that true supermodel vibe, while terracotta or burnt sienna adds warmth and a sun-kissed effect. For a softer, more romantic take, go for deep mauve or berry.”

And if you’re feeling spicy? “Cherry red liner on its own is a statement I’m loving; it’s striking but still sophisticated. The key is blending it well so it feels intentional,” he adds. The trick to keeping the look flattering is choosing a shade that enhances your natural lip colour. “Go one or two shades deeper than your lips for the most natural effect,” advises Chakraborty. The result? Sculpted, defined lips—no lipstick required.

Softer, glossier, and cooler than ever

While the inspo may be retro, today’s take on lip-liner-only makeup is sleek, wearable, and way less fussy. Gone are the days of stark, unblended borders. The new version is all about diffused lines, soft contours, and a slightly glossy or balmy finish. The effect? Lush, plump-looking lips that feel effortless and chic—never overdone.

“Back in the ‘90s, the contrast was intense—super dark liner with almost no blending,” says Chakraborty. “Now, it’s more soft and lived-in. The new version is less about a strict outline and more about shaping and enhancing your lips in a natural way.”

So, whether you’re channelling your inner ‘90s supermodel or just want to add a little extra oomph to your everyday look, the lip-liner-only technique is your new beauty go-to, perfect for days when you want to look like you tried without actually trying. And as Chakraborty sums it up, “Honestly, this trend looks best when it’s not too perfect. A little bit of natural fade makes it feel easy, effortless, and totally wearable.”

So go ahead—line it, blur it, and own it. Because sometimes, less really is more.

Lead image: Getty

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