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8 Iconic Y2K Makeup Looks That Are Making a Comeback

Chelsea Hall DefaultChelsea Hall Default
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Published on Feb 2, 2026 • 4 min read
A close-up shot featuring a woman with Y2K-inspired makeup, boasting glittery eyeshadow and a fierce expression MobileA close-up shot featuring a woman with Y2K-inspired makeup, boasting glittery eyeshadow and a fierce expression Desktop

Instagram/@paintedbyesther

The turn of the millennium marked a distinctive era in beauty, blending futuristic vibes with nods to vintage glamor. Y2K makeup was all about bold statements, shimmering eyeshadows, glossy lips, and loads of sparkle and glitter.

Picture this: Metallic hues, iridescent shadows, and super frosty lipsticks. From Britney Spears to Destiny's Child, Y2K makeup embodied the essence of the era's iconic figures. Ahead, we've rounded up noteworthy makeup looks and tips on reviving these timeless beauty trends with a modern twist.

It's about glam time you treated yourself.

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Our Fave Y2K Trends Right Now

1. Blue Eyeshadow

This trend is making a comeback, adding a playful touch to any look. Whether going for a soft pastel hue or an electric blue shade like JELLY PONG PONG COSMETICS Multifunctional Pigment in Cosmic Light, this eyeshadow trend will make your eyes stand out and evoke nostalgic vibes of early 2000s glam. To recreate the look, start with a neutral base eyeshadow, then apply your chosen blue shade onto the lids, blending it outwards and upwards towards the brow bone. Complete your look by adding a touch of shimmer on the inner corners of your eyes for extra dimension.

2. Dark Lip Liner

Dark lip liner is the ultimate Y2K trend that's still turning heads today. Pair it with a nude or clear gloss for a chic and edgy pout that's perfect for both day and night. To recreate the look, line your lips with a dark lip liner, slightly overlining if desired, then fill in with a complementary nude or clear lipstick or gloss. Blend the edges for a gradient finish.

3. Glitter Eyeshadow

Whether you're going for a subtle shimmer or full-on sparkle, this shimmery look adds instant glam to any eye look. To recreate the look, start with a primer to make the glitter adhere better, then pat the glitter eyeshadow onto the lid using a flat brush or your fingertips. For a more intense effect, wet your brush before applying the glitter.

4. Iridescent Eyeshadow

This ethereal trend brings a bold touch to any makeup routine, creating multidimensional, out-of-this-world gorgeous eyes. Whether you're going for a soft, fairy-like glow or a bold, futuristic vibe, iridescent eyeshadow is a must-have for anyone who loves to stand out. To recreate the look, apply the iridescent eyeshadow shades of your choice to the center of the lid and blend outwards towards the corners. Layer for a more intense effect, and apply a touch of highlighter to your inner corners.

5. Glossy Lips

This Y2K trend is back and better than ever, giving your lips a luscious and ultra-hydrated look. Swipe on a clear gloss for a natural, juicy pout, or go bold with a tinted nude or bubblegum pink gloss like SMASHBOX COSMETICS Lip Gloss in the shade Gloss Angeles for a pop of color that screams early 2000s chic. Either way, your lips will be the center of attention wherever you go. To recreate the look, apply a lip balm for hydration, then go in with a layer of gloss for shine. Blot lightly for a more natural finish.

6. Pencil Thin Eyebrows

Love or hate them—sleek, pencil-thin brows that frame the face to perfection were all the rage in the late 90s and early 2000s. Luckily, in the modern-day era, you don't have to wax or pluck your brows (unless you want to) to achieve the look. To recreate the look, start by outlining your desired brow shape with a concealer that mimics your skin tone, then fill in sparingly with a brow pencil, focusing on creating a precise, thin line.

7. Smoked Out Under-Eyeliner

This Y2K trend gives your eyes a seductive and smoldering look that enhances your natural eye shape and draws effortless attention to your gaze. To recreate the look, apply eyeliner along the lower lash line, then use a smudging brush to soften and blend the line for a smoky finish.

8. Hot Pink Eyeshadow

Hot pink eyeshadow is anything but subtle. This vibrant Y2K trend adds a playful pop of color, instantly brightening your eyes and adding a fun, flirty vibe to your look. To recreate the look, apply the hot pink eyeshadow onto the lids or along the lash line with a dense brush, blending the edges for a seamless finish. Pair with neutral shadows in the crease to balance the boldness of the pink.

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