Fashion and beauty always return in cycles – and 2025 clearly belongs to the revival of grunge aesthetics. This trend, which defined the 1990s by blending the rebellious spirit of the rock scene with the effortless style of supermodels, is back in a modernized form.
On social media, the hashtag #cleangrunge has exploded, showing how to merge the raw, careless vibe of the nineties with today’s minimalist elegance. The result? A look that feels edgy yet polished – ideal for a generation searching for authenticity, individuality, and practicality.
What is grunge make-up and how did it originate?
Grunge make-up emerged in the late 1980s and early 1990s as a response to the perfectionism of the beauty scene at that time. While the 80s were about bold colors and elaborate hairstyles, grunge brought a revolution: imperfection as a style statement.
Classic grunge make-up
Dark smokey eyes, smudged black eyeliner, pale skin, and dark lips in shades of wine, burgundy, or brown. This look was worn by rock stars as well as supermodels like Kate Moss, who became an icon of the genre.
Clean grunge make-up (2025)
The modern version keeps the essence but adds refinement and wearability. The skin looks clean, matte or semi-matte, the eyes feature softer smokey shadows or graphic liners, and the lips are in deep shades but applied with a light touch – often dabbed on with a finger for that blurred “after-party lips” effect.
How to create a grunge look – step by step
Skin:
Forget the dewy glow – grunge favors a matte to velvet finish. A unified complexion and subtle contouring are enough to shape the face without excessive perfection.
Eyes:
- Classic: smudged black liner, dark smokey shadows in black, gray, brown, or khaki.
- Modern: graphic eyeliner, a soft smokey shade only on the upper lid, finished with mascara.
Lips:
Dark tones are a must – wine, burgundy, brown, or even black lipstick. For a clean grunge effect, gently pat the color with your fingers for a blurred, undone look.
Brows:
Natural, brushed-up, and slightly messy. Sharp definition doesn’t fit grunge – unkemptness is part of the style.
Who wears the grunge look in 2025?
Today’s celebrities are embracing the trend with enthusiasm:
- Bella Hadid opts for a minimalist clean grunge look with burgundy lips.
- Billie Eilish combines raw aesthetics with futuristic elements.
- Zendaya proves that grunge can look chic and luxurious even on the red carpet.
The inspiration reaches back to the 1990s – supermodels like Kate Moss and Shalom Harlow were the first icons to show that carelessness can be as alluring as elegance.
How to style grunge make-up for different occasions
- Bold version: Smokey eyes, black liner, and deep red lips – perfect for a concert, party, or date night.
- Clean grunge daytime look: Matte skin, subtle liner, and lips in “bitten berry” or nude-brown shades. Natural yet stylish.
- With fashion: Matches perfectly with a leather jacket, oversized shirt, high-waisted jeans, or a minimalist outfit. The contrast between rebellious make-up and simple fashion creates a modern balance.
Why grunge deserves a chance in 2025
- It’s a style for everyone – you can choose the level of intensity.
- It feels charismatic and authentic – it’s not about perfection, but personal expression.
- More versatile than ever – clean grunge works both at the office and at a party.
- Most importantly: grunge is about freedom. It allows you to look edgy, sexy, and elegant at the same time.
Grunge make-up is not just a retro comeback – it’s a trend that has transformed into a modern, wearable version. In 2025, it’s one of the biggest beauty phenomena, giving women and men alike the chance to express their personality without compromise.
