Black women were front and center of beauty and fashion trends throughout the '90s, unequivocally setting standards that would have lasting impressions for generations to come. From artists to supermodels and actresses, Black women were introduced to the world through high fashion, culture, and entertainment for their boundless talent, striking beauty, creativity, and unique style that would trickle down, inspiring the rest of the world.
Their influence is documented throughout Black cinema, red carpets, music videos, and magazine covers as Black women began to break barriers and set the tone for the '90s bombshell. Iconic Black women of that era displayed undeniable femininity, confidence, and sex appeal through a variety of natural elements such as soft glam, sexy silhouettes, and God-given beauty.
As we coast through the final months of 2024, the ’90s revival shows no sign of slowing down. 21st-century social media platforms such as Instagram, TikTok, and Pinterest have made it easier than ever to replicate elements of our favorite ’90s bombshells. Reliving the stylistic contributions of Black women during the era of dramatic eyes, neutral lips, and voluminous, bouncy blowouts has been instrumental in the latest "clean girl aesthetic" trend.
Along with hair and makeup influences, ’90s style icons have also made their way back to high fashion runways with the resurgence of supermodels such as Naomi Campbell and Tyra Banks, while designer brands such as Gap and Calvin Klein have featured nostalgic campaign references. Follow along as we break down elements of the quintessential ’90s bombshell and how to implement the timeless elements into your everyday looks.
The Elements of Being '90s Fine: Makeup
‘90s supermodel glam will never go out of style.
From Naomi's statement lip to Iman’s fresh, flawless skin and Tyra Banks’ striking statement eye, decades later, ‘90s glam continues to make its way onto mood boards and TikTok feeds as inspiration. The allure of less is more finally made its way through the mainstream after the heavy blush and neon color craze of the ‘80s.
Tyra Banks in 1999
Steve Azzara/Corbis via Getty Images
Makeup evolved into fresh, lightweight skin, with more subtle but impactful lined lips, thin brows, frosted colors, and a wearable playfulness that makeup prior to this time didn’t have,” celebrity makeup artist Taylour Chanel told Vogue of the era. Black makeup artists such as Sam Fine and Pat McGrath were the artists leading the memorable makeup trends that graced countless designer runways, campaigns, and makeup covers.
British top model Naomi Campbell in the '90s.
Mick Hutson/Redferns
Balancing bold and natural, there was an emphasis on defining features such as sculpted cheeks, and neutral lined lips, along with enhancing eye shapes while adding a touch of drama with shimmery frosted eyeshadows and dark-hued or neutral lips.
The Elements of Being '90s Fine: Hair
Throughout the ‘90s there were a variety of hairstyles that dominated the decade, but much like fashion, hair trends eventually ease their way back into mainstream culture. Many are on the rise yet again because they're fun, chic, low maintenance, and some are even staples for protecting your natural hair.
‘90s R&B divas such as Brandy’s signature micro braids, Sade’s sleek ponytail, and Lauryn Hill embracing her beautiful locs are examples of timeless beauty that have endured throughout the years.
Portrait of R&B singer Lauryn Hill in 1998.
Anthony Barboza/Getty Images
While there were many beautiful hairstyles in the ‘90s, the iconic pixie cut was a stand-out signature style that was equal parts tough and sexy. Famously worn by Nia Long, Halle Berry, and Toni Braxton, these women made short hair the thing to have in the ‘90s.
Toni Braxton in 1994
Vinnie Zuffante/Getty Images
As of late, blowouts with voluminous curls complimented with a dramatic side part have been one of the most influential hairstyles making their way back to our For You Pages. Songstress Aaliyah, along with iconic Black actresses such as Angela Bassett, Lynn Whitfield, Robin Givens, and Tisha Campbell, have been famous for the body and fullness of their hair.
The Elements of Being '90s Fine: Nails
Before nail art became adopted into mainstream culture, Black women pioneered the long nail trend, which continues in the modern day. Long abstract nails were seen on Olympic gold medalist Flo Jo in the ‘80s and soon adopted by hip-hop legends such as Lil Kim and Foxy Brown and R&B divas Mary J. Blige and SWV's lead vocalist Coko as they paved the way for decorated square-shaped curved nails in bold, colorful shades, adding jewels and gems for extra flair.
Mary J. Blige backstage at the Fox Billboard Awards in 1994.
Jeff Kravitz/FilmMagic, Inc
Today, you don’t even need a salon to achieve this look. With the ease of press-on nails and the invention of Gel-X, this ‘90s nail trend can be achieved through a variety of methods.
While abstract art was thriving in ‘90s culture, there was also the conservative It girl who preferred sheer nude polishes with a subtle shine finish, Ferrari red monotone sets, and the classic French manicure tips.
The Elements of Being '90s Fine: The Fashion
Black media and entertainment television played a vital role in showcasing the diverse fashion trends of the ’90s, bringing unique styles into the mainstream and setting the tone for cultural expression. Iconic Black films and television shows introduced us to characters whose style we still admire, capturing the essence of the era through vibrant and memorable fashion moments. Music artists were equally influential, creating some of the decade’s most iconic style statements.
Together, these cinematic and musical representations of ’90s culture cemented a lasting legacy in fashion, embodying creativity, identity, and self-expression that remains relevant today.
In 2024, '90s fashion trends are re-emerging with a focus on classic silhouettes and minimalist aesthetics, offering a breath of fresh air to modern wardrobes. Inspired by iconic entertainers like Janet Jackson, whose edgy style influenced streetwear, and Halle Berry, whose elegance and poise redefined red carpets, the aesthetic remained effortlessly sexy for both day and night.
Halle Berry attending the MTV Movie Awards in 1993.
Vinnie Zuffante/Getty Images
Key pieces like low-rise jeans, crop tops, chokers, and slip dresses define laid-back yet stylish looks reminiscent of Aaliyah's iconic tomboy-chic vibe and Naomi Campbell's runway glamour. Tailored suits, sheer tights, and playful skirts also took center stage, capturing the chic, feminine flair of '90s fashion with a conservative yet bold aesthetic.
Janet Jackson at the album release party for 'The Velvet Rope' in 1997.
SGranitz/WireImage
While the unforgettable sitcoms, movies, and red-carpet moments of the decade continue to influence today’s high-fashion aesthetics, this revival captures the era’s signature ease and allure, reimagined for a new generation.
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Whether you're planning to meet a certain financial or fitness goal, or you're simply trying to maintain and build on the progress you made this year, having something to look forward to is always a good look. Setting actual goals, according to research, actually leads to more success than just playing things by ear. So here are a few to get you started, sis:
(Disclaimer: Not everything is for everyone, so do like my Granny always says: "Eat the meat. Spit out the bone." Take on five out of the 40 and focus on that for the remainder of the year, or do them all. Either way, this is just to get you started.)
40 Ways To End The Year Strong and Inspired
Money Moves
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1. Increase your retirement (or other savings/investment) contributions by 1%.
Experts have found that you could be leaving money on the table by not upping your contributions when you can.
2. Cancel two to five subscriptions.
You could be missing hundreds, even thousands, of dollars a year due to sneaky price hikes and "updates."
3. Create a "fun" in a high-yield savings account.
This is especially important if you struggle with the dreaded b-word (budget) and will make next year's efforts a lot less intimidating. Even if it's $10 a month, do it.
4. Put on your big-girl panties, and set up automatic transfers and payments for at least one bill.
It reduces the stress of managing bills, lessens the chance of a missed payment---and the fees that come with that---and there can be cost savings for doing so.
5. Invest in a cleaner or housekeeping service.
Bosses who value their time (and mental health) invest their dollars into areas where the time they'd spend doing those tasks themselves could be better used to focus on other money-making projects. (And yes, rest is part of that.) Get a housekeeper, sis, or drop off that laundry, even if it's once per month.
6. Donate to a charity.
Beyond the tax benefits, it's a win-win for the greater good of communities you care about.
7. Review your insurance policies and negotiate a better rate (or move on) before their end dates.
Experts often agree this is a small but mighty step to take each year, especially since insurance rates are competitive, you could be spending more money than you need to (or not enough) and your insurance rates can affect your mortgage payments.
8. Call your loan provider and refinance.
As interest rates fall, “millions of borrowers may be able to refinance and get more affordable payments. As interest rates eased down to 6.5%, about 2.5 million borrowers could already refinance and save at least 75 basis points (0.75%) on their interest rate,” the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau reports. You can also refinance student and other types of loans.
9. Stop buying individual items and stock up via going bulk.
Research has found that, among 30 common products, buying in bulk could save you 27% compared with buying in lower quantities. Water, paper products, and baby products like diapers, toiletries, and garbage bags are the top items where people see the most cost-effectiveness. (This has been a lifesaver for me—children, large family, or not—especially when it comes to toothpaste, deodorant, toilet paper, and feminine hygiene products, saving stress, time, and money.)
10. Go cash-only for the holidays.
If you set smart goals and stick to limits on things like gifts, going out to eat, or groceries, you'll see the benefits of this. Cash-stuffing is one method recommended, but something as simple as taking a $10 bill out for lunch, disabling that card for an hour, and leaving your card in a safe place at the office can give you that mindset jump start to see how far you can take your money without the need to splurge.
Love And Romance
11. Say "no."
There are clear mental and physical health benefits to saying no including the setting of healthy boundaries, creating time and energy for other self-care activities, and protecting yourself from physically harmful situations (i.e. unprotected sex or abuse). Just say it, clearly and simply, when you need to.
12. Set a fun, free, adults-only date night for once a week or twice a month with your spouse.
If busy, high-profile folk have touted the success of this, even you can make the time for quality time with your partner. And it's even better when it costs nothing. The best connections are made doing something chill, challenging, or outside the usual dinner-and-a-movie date. Play a game that allows you to reconnect, take a walk in your neighborhood to chat and laugh, or try a little erotic chocolate/edible liquid/paint episode a la Mea Culpa.
13. Go out with Mr. or Ms. "Not My Type."
I love my man, but if I were waiting out for my "type" at the time, we wouldn't be celebrating seven (going on eight) years together. Sometimes having strict, unrealistic expectations for a spouse (especially related to things like height, physical features, or career path) is what's keeping you alone and lonely.
Take the pressure off and explore all your options. I'm not telling you to stop popping the balloon on the guy who earns $20,000 less than you if that's a hard no that Jesus himself told you to skip. I'm asking you to explore other options and see what else God might have out there for your love journey.
14. Immediately apologize and pray together.
I've learned that always being "right" isn't always ideal when you truly care about someone and you're in a relationship for the long haul. Defaulting to an apology when necessary, even when things aren't 100% resolved, is a good way to prioritize peace and save your energy for more worthwhile battles. Research has even supported the benefits of apologies in relationships, and how couples married for five or more years do it often.
15. Get a Rose and discover true self-love.
Do I really have to explain this? You've gotta know what satisfies you, and how better to figure that out than to practice self-love in the bed by yourself? You can also try this with a partner, but as a woman who got on this train very much later in my sexual activity journey. I have a lot more learning to do on my own, and even in a satisfying relationship, I like to find out new things about myself, by myself.
Figure out what you're into, watch what you want to watch, and read what you want to read to define pleasure for yourself. There's a freedom and empowering element there especially if you're used to prioritizing pleasing your partner.
16. Be direct and have the "money talk" with bae.
Money issues are one of the leading causes of divorce, so you need to have those conversations before you even think about marrying someone. And true, nobody can predict the future so you won't be able to avoid some challenges altogether, however, talking with your potential spouse about how they view money, their spending habits, and the pain points in terms of their approach to money management can at least give you a glimpse into what's in store if you do walk down the aisle, move in with them, or decide to share a bank account/business/child with them.
17. Invest in the "paid" version of that dating app.
I know plenty of successful, married folk who did this and met "the one" as a result. Let's be honest: The free version is for playing around. I had a lot of fun with my "free" profile back in the day, trust me. Upgrade that photo, profile, and package, and see if the quality of your dating adventures changes when you're serious about finding a true partner. Dating coaches and matchmakers cosign this.
18. Solo travel to meet that long-distance connection.
Sometimes, your perfect match isn't within 100 miles of you, and that's okay. Make it an adventure, enjoy the memories, and book that ticket. I met my man this way and it's been a whirlwind escape ever since. If you're not comfortable traveling solo, travel or (network to plan travel) with a group via Facebook.
Career And Business
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19. Schedule coffee or virtual meetups with smart people from your graduating class, previous employer, or current employer.
I have gotten many freelance opportunities by doing this. It's as simple as connecting and offering value (or simply learning how you can better equip yourself to do so.) It's also a great way to expand your network, spark new friendships, or find out about new job opportunities.
20. Invest in a well-made suit.
I don't care what industry you're in, a suit says "power," and it's not as old-school or out-of-style as you'd think. Plus the whole experience of looking for a new one (or getting one tailored) is fun and affirming. Try these options. I swear, anytime I wear a blazer, I'm treated like a celebrity or boss, especially when traveling. I was once upgraded to first-class wearing a yellow blazer outfit, and the airline professional literally said, "You look like somebody important. Here you go."
21. Volunteer for a worthwhile project or cause that's important to your company.
If you're overworked and underappreciated, skip this one, but if you truly have the time, love what you do, and want to advance, this move is clutch. Volunteering for extra projects got me where I am today in media because I had foresight, and knew that was the only way at the time to leverage relationships, and I was able to challenge myself to learn skills that 20 years later are still bankable. That VP you can't get a meeting with will be at that gala your company is planning, so join that committee, sis.
22. Write down why you deserve a raise and ask for it in your next one-on-one.
Gather those receipts (ie sales increase numbers, KPIs met, deals closed, people acquired via recruitment, the impact of systems updates, or other tangible success metrics) and ask for that raise before the first or second-quarter budgets are being finalized.
23. Instead of quitting, write down your exit plan.
While revenge quitting is set to be a thing next year (and maybe you're among those who will be leading the trend), try the better boss move and quit with a real plan.
24. Start automatically separating that estimated self-employed quarterly tax estimate.
If you have side hustles (or you're collecting 1099 income,) baby, you do not want to neglect those quarter tax payments. Talk to a professional, do your research, and set up automatic transfers to an account specifically for paying these at the appropriate due dates.
25. Sign up for a free one- to 11-week course related to your industry—or the industry you want to be in next year.
Institutions like Harvard University and platforms like Coursera offer free courses that can enhance your skills. You can also invest in certificate courses with accredited colleges as well as tech training.
26. Hit "Easy Apply" for 10 dream jobs listed on LinkedIn.
While you shouldn't solely rely on this when actively job-seeking, using this convenient LinkedIn option is a great way to get into the habit of applying for positions. And if you're already employed, you should still be "dating" other employers if you're looking to make a move in the next six months. Keep your interview skills sharp, practice toughening up for the "nos," and get a bit of an ego boost in the process.
Self-Care And Wellness
27. Pre-schedule three month's worth of massages.
Oftentimes this is cost-effective since some spas offer deals for multiple bookings. Also, it makes an act of self-care deliberate and important, not an option. When you get that reminder call, you'll know it's real.
28. Fire that therapist and try another one.
Cultural competency in mental health support is one major problem that can hinder Black women from even bothering with therapy. And who wants the added stress of spending multiple, paid sessions explaining why something is a microaggression? Cut the cord and move on to try someone else, either via a Black women therapists channel or recommendations from others.
29. Join a small group at church.
Bedside service ain't gonna cut it and neither is going to the usual Sunday service. Join a smaller group and upgrade your efforts to connect, network, and elevate spiritually. Even if virtually, take a step to dig a bit deeper with more targeted Bible study and discussions.
30. Say no, even to loved ones.
This is on here twice, for a reason. Saying no is the simplest, most powerful micro-action you can take today to make 2025 better. No explanations. No guilt. Say no.
31. Choose one "luxury" beauty product for skincare and stick to it.
This was trending big on social, especially for millennials hitting their 40s. There's just something so freeing about not giving in to every trend and sticking to the basics that work, especially when there are quality, healthy ingredients involved. Put those orders on auto-renew.
32. Sign up for a new sport or fitness class just for fun, not for results.
It's great to be on a weight-loss or weight-lifting journey, but try something just for the fun of it. Switch things up with a couple of these fitness activities.
33. Book a staycation.
Leave the passport at home and explore a nearby community or another town in your state. There's so much enrichment in your own backyard right here in the U.S., and you don't even have to break the bank.
34. Pre-schedule your mammograms, Pap smear, and peri-menopause checkups for next year.
Take control of your health by pre-scheduling essential appointments like mammograms, Pap smears, and peri-menopause check-ups for 2025. Prioritizing these screenings early ensures you stay on top of your wellness and make time for self-care in the new year.
35. Cut off support of beauty and wellness professionals whose customer service is below standard.
This is another one that many Black women have been vocal about—from unrealistic pre-appointment requirements, to booking fees, to long waits, to unsavory in-salon experiences. Spot the red flags early, and just stop accommodating foolishness. Support salons or experienced stylists who are kind, have proper systems in place and value your time.
36. Schedule five to 10-minute moments of silence on your calendar.
Again, wellness is not optional, and if it's not on my calendar, it's not official. Sit quietly. Pray. Meditate. Or do nothing. The benefits of silent moments are almost endless.
37. Download a meditation app.
If you've found that meditation is difficult to schedule or to even start, an app can help. Try this, this, or this one, and take that step to embrace something new to enhance your wellness routine. If you're tired of downloading apps, create a playlist for meditation via Amazon Music or Spotify and schedule a reminder to do it once a day or week.
38. Invest in a healthy meal prep or delivery service.
Time is emotionally expensive, so save as much of it as possible. Getting into meal prep to keep to your goals is a great way to save time, stress, and effort. The health benefits of meal prepping have also been proven via research.
39. Create a positive playlist on Spotify, Amazon Music, YouTube, or other streaming platform.
It can be podcasts, music, affirmations, or somatic sounds. It's a game-changer. You can even set an alarm to wake you up to start your day with the positive playlist. Not into creating your own? There are plenty to choose from with a quick search.
40. Set up reminders for Alexa (Siri or other AI) to remind you, "You are loved," and "You are okay."
This simple effort can boost your endorphins and remind you that you're indeed, not alone, and you will be okay, regardless. To set mine up, I simply commanded, "Alexa, remind me everyday 'Jesus loves me,'" and like clockwork she does. She almost scared the ish out of me one day when I'd forgotten the reminder was active, but it was the reminder I needed when anxiety had gotten the best of me that week.
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In the VogueBeauty Secrets video, we find that the popular TikToker’s beauty routine is more than just products—it’s a testament to self-care, practicality, and embracing life’s imperfections. Her balance of natural beauty and thoughtful touches serves as an inspiring guide for anyone looking to elevate their routine.
Skincare First: A Simple but Powerful Routine
Screenshot/ Vogue YouTube
Nara’s approach to skincare starts with simplicity.
- Cleansing: She begins her day by splashing her face with water. "I usually just splash my face with water in the morning," she explains.
- Nourishment: Nara swears by the True Botanicals Oil, a product she’s been using since her first pregnancy. "This is my favorite thing. I started using it four years ago when I was pregnant with my first baby."
- Hydration: For her dry, eczema-prone skin, Nara relies on DLA Real, a German pharmacy moisturizer she’s used for a decade. “I have very dry skin and deal with a lot of eczema...I try to keep my skin as moisturized as possible.”
- Sunscreen: Despite occasionally forgetting it, sunscreen is a staple in her routine. "I made this sunscreen once for my husband...he didn’t get a sunburn that day, so I guess it works."
Skincare First: A Simple but Powerful RoutineScreenshot/ Vogue YouTube
Her DIY sensibilities extend to her lips, where she uses a homemade scrub crafted from brown sugar, coconut oil, honey, and peppermint essential oil. "My mom actually taught me how to make this."
Makeup: Natural, Fun and Versatile
Screenshot/ Vogue YouTube
When it comes to makeup, Nara’s philosophy is all about enhancing her natural beauty with a playful twist.
- Primer and Concealer: A matte primer sets the stage for her hydrating products. Nara mixes two shades of Hourglass Concealer, letting it sit for optimal coverage. “I apply my concealer and let it sit...it always helps with coverage.”
- Brows and Lashes: Her eyebrows, lightly plucked and filled for a wispy effect, have a story of their own. "I remember when I was 14, my modeling agency told me to never touch my eyebrows again. I didn’t, until a few months ago." For lashes, she relies on Ardell Individual Lashes, which "have carried me through very tough times."
- Blush and Contour: Nara admits to having “blush blindness” because of her love for the product. She layers cream blush with powder blush and contours lightly using the Fenty Matchstick in Mocha.
- Lips: A defined yet soft lip is her signature, using Mac Chestnut Lip Liner, a berry stain, and Mac Lip Glass. “I smudge the liner with my finger for a softer look.”
A Personal Touch to Haircare
@naraazizasmith well… #easyrecipe #hairtok #fypシ #homemade #hairgrowth
Nara’s hair journey reflects her resilience and adaptability. After struggling with severe scalp eczema, she transitioned from curly to straight hair to protect her scalp and hairline. "People always tell me to bring my curls back, but they don’t realize the struggle with scalp eczema."
She also shared on TikTok that she recently had a scissor-happy stylist who cut a little too much so of course the woman who also makes homemade PopTarts, Cola, and Cheez-Its, also made her own hair growth serum.
With rosemary sprigs and boiled water, she transforms the mixture into a spray bottle. Nara combines olive oil with clean rosemary sprigs, jojoba, sweet almond oil, vitamin E, peppermint oil and Argan oil for the rosemary hair oil. She sprays rosemary water onto her scalp and hair. Then, she will massage oil directly onto her scalp and leave it on before washing it out.
Finishing Touches
Screenshot/ Vogue YouTube
Nara’s final steps are all about adding a polished, dewy glow. She uses the Chanel Transparent Balm, describing it as a product that “makes you look dewy and sweaty, but in the best way.” A spritz of Fix Plus Spray sets her look, and her favorite fragrance, Maison Margiela Beach Walk, completes the routine.
Cooking, Kids and Confidence
Outside of beauty, the South African-born beauty finds joy in cooking from scratch—a necessity born from managing her autoimmune disease and eczema. "Cooking meals from scratch started when my eczema flared up so badly I couldn’t function." Her 4-year-old daughter, Rumble, also shares her love for makeup, often mimicking her routine. "She needs her blush on, and her eyebrows brushed up...the more glitter, the better."
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Feature image Screenshot/ Vogue YouTube