The soft grunge makeup trend is making a noticeable comeback this fall, as seen during Fashion Month S/S '27. Makeup artist Ashley Rebecca notes that this trend aligns with a '90s revival in makeup, hair, and fashion, reflecting consumers' desire for playful experiences with their beauty routines. After a period dominated by the clean girl aesthetic, characterized by minimal skin tints and tinted lip balms, the shift back to full glam is evident.
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For those inspired by soft grunge, Rebecca offers practical tips and product recommendations. Emphasizing eye makeup is key; she suggests applying eyeliner on the eyes and waterline, then softly smoking it out. Products like Sarah Creal’s Eyes Up 24H Creamy Kajal Eyeliner in Everyday Matte Bronze, along with MAC Cosmetics' Multisculpt Matte Liquid Eyeshadow, are recommended for achieving this look.
Fresh, glowing skin is also essential to soft grunge. Rebecca advises using a minimal skin tint and opting for liquid bronzer instead of blush to create a more sultry aesthetic.
Classic smokey eyes add to the allure, and Rebecca recommends finishing the look with eye gloss for a sexy shine. Popular options include MAKEUP BY MARIO's Long-Wear Cream Eyeshadow and Charlotte Tilbury's Exagger-Eyes Waterproof Eyeshadow Stick.
Nail design can enhance the overall appearance, so coordinating them with your makeup is suggested. Glamnetic and Quezadyl offer nail products that add a chic touch.
To further warm up the skin, Rebecca suggests using liquid bronzers with a sheen highlight, enhancing the bone structure and adding a playful vibe reminiscent of festival looks.
Lastly, adding imaginative elements like feathers or appliqués can elevate soft grunge looks. Ann Demeulemeester showcases this effectively, transforming a simple eyeliner into an art form.
Ashley Rebecca Schultz, a New York-based makeup artist, provides these insights. Her experiences span editorial, commercial, and celebrity work, and she is also a contributor to Byrdie.