Beauty trends of the late '90s and early 2000s are back, and I'm here for the full-circle nostalgia. Growing up, I was entranced by the Black women who graced the covers of magazines, walked runways, and served on red carpets with a goddess-like persona from head to toe.
From fashion models to video vixens, Black women have always set the tone when inspiring generations. In today's market, beauty brands have widened their scope when it comes to inclusive colors and matching tones for Black skin but that wasn't always the case back in the day. Even then, leave it to Black women to make do by leading creativity and style even when excluded from the beauty industry.
Looks of the '90s are projected to lead Fall 2021's top makeup trends, with a range of easily recognizable trends that defined beauty more than 20 years ago.
Highlighting pronounced features and fully lined lips, this was the decade of both sultry-sexy neutrals and over-the-top everyday glam. Inspired to create a fresh take on throwback makeup trends this season? Keep scrolling for my take on the iconic looks inspired by my childhood. Dark and sultry, or fun and flirty: Which '90s sweetheart are you?
Dark And Sultry
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When the '90s supermodel ruled the world, there was a mix of both sexy-sultry with an ultra cool-girl exterior. Two of my favorite icons, Naomi Campbell and Tyra Banks, were the leading ladies of beauty and makeup trends during the decade.
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Never shying away from a beat face and stunning looks to match, I was inspired to recreate a combination of two looks using a glossy lined lip and dark undereye pair.
Along with the '90s lip and undereye liner, I went for a sultry shadow for more of a neutral fall vibe. Perfect for an evening out, I absolutely loved this look.
Fun And Flirty
Shahirah Ahmed/xoNecole
This dreamy '90s-inspired makeup look is a fun and flirty combination when going for a bit of drama. With a pop of pink lips and eyeshadow to match, the iconic combination, inspired by Clueless, is a super fashion-forward look that should be worn sparingly.
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Although impressing myself, there is such a thing as overdoing it. Wearing brighter colors felt a bit out of my comfort zone, but I still loved it. In my opinion, go for both a lighter lip and eyeshadow for a daytime look.
Of the two looks, I gravitated toward dark and sultry. Confident and chic, I truly felt like a '90s bombshell.
To get your beauty fix and to stay up to date with the latest trends, check out the xoNecole Beauty section here.
Featured image by Shahirah Ahmed/xoNecole
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It's easy for couples to fall into a routine, going through the motions and letting their connection sit on autopilot. While comfort is natural in a long-term relationship, it’s important to remember: that what you don’t nurture, eventually fades. So, why not make 2025 the year you reset your relationship? Here’s how to start the year with a renewed bond, reigniting the spark that brought you together.
Step 1: Schedule Your Reset Meeting
The first step to hitting the reset button is a State of the Union meeting with your partner. This is your chance to take a pulse on the relationship, discuss what's working, and identify areas that need attention. It’s all about creating space to reflect, without distractions.
Grab a pen and paper (or open a shared note on your phone) and come prepared to share your top 2-3 desires for your relationship.
What do you both want to feel more of in 2025? Maybe it’s feeling more appreciated, or perhaps you want to reignite the passion you had when you first started dating. Whatever it is, get clear about it, and make sure both of you are on the same page.
This isn’t just about listing your own wants, it’s also about discussing ways to nurture each other’s needs. Relationship goals should be focused on fostering deeper intimacy, trust, and mutual respect. Use this time to check in, not only with each other but with your individual feelings and expectations. Set the foundation for a fulfilling year ahead.
Alistair Berg/Getty ImagesStep 2: Set A Date (Or Multiple!)
Having the meeting is only the first step. Now, it’s time to take action. One of the simplest ways to breathe new life into a relationship is by reintroducing consistent, intentional time spent together. For many couples, life gets busy, and date nights fall by the wayside. But dating doesn’t stop when you say "I do"—in fact, it’s even more essential.
During your reset meeting, lock in a regular date night that works for both of your schedules. This could be a weekly dinner date or an every-other-week adventure—whatever keeps things fresh. The goal is consistency. It’s easy to push date nights aside when life gets hectic, but if you set a specific date each week or month, you’re making your relationship a priority.
If you’re unsure what to do for your date nights, don’t worry! The key is creating new experiences together. This is what sparks excitement and brings you closer as a couple. Whether it’s cooking a new recipe together, trying a dance class, or exploring a nearby town, it’s about creating shared memories that build your connection.
Getty ImagesStep 3: Find an Accountability Partner
Just like you might have a personal trainer to help you crush your fitness goals, an accountability partner for your relationship can do wonders for keeping both of you on track. Consider hiring a marriage coach or therapist—someone who can meet you where you are and guide you in strengthening your relationship.
When selecting a professional, it’s important to choose someone who truly wants the best for your marriage and can provide actionable advice.
Don’t be afraid to set high standards for your relationship, and seek guidance on how to keep it thriving for the long haul. In your reset meeting, discuss your commitment to growth, and be honest about areas where you may need support.
Marriage isn’t a set-it-and-forget-it endeavor—it’s an ongoing process. Regular check-ins with a professional can help keep your relationship in tip-top shape and “divorce-proof” by addressing issues before they become insurmountable.
DMP/ Getty ImagesStep 4: Try Something New Together
Stale routines can easily make a relationship feel monotonous. Spice things up by trying something new! Couples that explore new activities and create new memories together have stronger, more fulfilling bonds.
My husband and I host one of the top luxury marriage retreats, A Weekend For Love, designed to help couples experience new things together. From couples' workshops to outdoor adventures, the retreat provides a platform to rediscover each other and reconnect on a deeper level.
The element of surprise can reignite your connection. It’s exciting, fresh, and shows your partner that you’re committed to growing together. This doesn’t have to be a huge commitment—it could be as simple as trying a new hobby or planning an impromptu weekend getaway.
Your Relationship Should Be A Priority
As you start the year with personal goals in mind, don’t forget the importance of nurturing your relationship. It’s easy to get caught up in work, fitness, and family obligations, but your bond with your partner deserves to be at the top of your list. Resetting your relationship offers an opportunity to reignite that spark and remind each other why you fell in love in the first place.
In 2025, make a commitment to prioritize your partnership, to nurture it daily, and to invest in its growth. Take time to celebrate each other’s victories, support one another’s dreams, and build a foundation of love and respect. When you start the year with a clear focus on your relationship, you’re setting it up for success.
So, before you start mapping out your new workout plan or work goals, do yourself a favor: put your relationship at the top of that list. Your love story deserves a fresh start, too.
Happy New Year, and here’s to a love-filled 2025!
Couples, if you are ready to do the work and invest in your relationship register for A Weekend For Love: Heart Retreat Feb 21-23, 2025.
Featured image by zamrznutitonovi/Getty Images
