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Nineties-Inspired Party Makeup

Festive soirees are finally back, but there’s more to party season makeup than glitter and sparkles. With a nod to the Nineties, here are five illuminating looks that flatter all ages and skin tones to get you into the mood…

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Gilded Blush

Rose gold is one of the most flattering shades. Try reversing the classic smoky shape, so it’s more intense in the inner corner to give the illusion of bigger eyes. “Take the rose-gold hue into the inner corners of your eyes, using your socket as a guide, for a more contoured effect; and swap black liner for burgundy for a subtler finish,” says Adele.

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Like A Fine Wine

Introducing a new take on the iconic rich burgundy lip: set against gorgeous, satin-finish skin with a hint of shimmer across your eyes, it’s effortlessly elegant. “In the Nineties they overlined and in 2021 we underline. If you don’t usually go for bold shades, this is more wearable and accentuates your Cupid’s bow,” says Adele.

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Deep Blue Dreams

While baby blue used to be the hue of choice, a deep navy is a warmer, more alluring shade that works against every skin tone. The gentlest hint of shimmer brightens and lifts, too. “Keep the rest of your makeup clean and simple, and don’t take the blue right into the inner corner of your eyes. Add a hint of highlighter there instead to make the colour pop and add a new dimension,” says Adele.

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Blurred Lines

Put a modern spin on the grunge, tightlined eyeliner with softer, diffused lines and a glossy wash across your eyelids. It’s a look that you’ll want to channel long after the festive season ends. “Pair your smudged-liner look with a cream bronzer on your cheeks to keep your finish fresh and dewy,” suggests Adele.

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Lined & Defined

Brown lip liner paired with a pale shade across the eyes is the ultimate beauty throwback to the Nineties. Give it a 2021 feel with an ombre effect on your lips. “Use your lip liner as a base, layer with lipstick and then gently blend with your finger or a brush,” says Adele. “The blurred lines make it feel more effortless and less Instagram.

Photography by Anya Holdstock; makeup by Adele Sanderson; beauty direction by Liz Hambleton; Model: Shay @ Milk.