00’s ICY MAKEUP
The "icy" makeup trend of the 2000s was a hallmark of the Y2K era, featuring cool tones, shimmering finishes, and a futuristic aesthetic that exuded glamour and modernity. The focus was on creating a fresh and ethereal look using light colors and metallic shines to highlight facial features.
This technique was a favorite among iconic celebrities of the time, such as Rihanna, Christina Aguilera, Britney Spears, and Paris Hilton, who flaunted it in music videos, magazine covers, and events. Even the famous Victoria’s Secret Angels embraced the trend with their crystallized looks. Movies like Clueless and Legally Blonde also helped popularize the icy aesthetic.
Shimmery and metallic eyeshadows were the main highlight. Silver, light blue, lavender, and pearly white tones dominated the eyelids. These shadows were applied boldly, covering the entire lid and often extending to the brow bone, creating a unique and impactful look.
2000s makeup was always a well-balanced combo. Lip gloss was indispensable: lips often featured pink, silver, or translucent shades, with a wet, mirror-like finish. Holographic and shimmering effects were hugely popular at the time. Even though there were fewer product options compared to today, brands like MAC, L’Oréal, and Maybelline focused heavily on sparkle for their collections.
Today, the look can be easily recreated thanks to a broader variety of products. Highlighters from brands like Fenty Beauty and Dior offer perfect shades for recreating the technique. Loose pigments can be found in brands such as MAC, Kaima, and Morphe, while Pat McGrath has a diverse range of shimmer-packed palettes ideal for this aesthetic.
Pearlescent highlighters were also a key element of the trend. Cheekbones were lightly accented with shimmer, usually in silver or cool tones, to enhance the icy look. Unlike today’s trends of glowing, natural skin, the base in the 2000s was often matte, creating a contrast with the sparkle of the eyes and lips. Blush was soft, in pink or lavender tones, to complement the cool-toned palette.
Thin and barely filled brows were another defining element, allowing the eyes and lips to take center stage. Glitter was used to further enhance the eyes, either applied on the lids or as small accents around the eyes, creating a starry and glamorous effect.
How to Modernize the Icy Makeup Trend in 2024
You can refresh the iconic 2000s icy look by adding a few contemporary touches:
Full, natural brows: Replace the thin brows of the 2000s with a fuller, well-groomed brow style that frames the face beautifully.
Dewy skin finish: Opt for a more hydrated, glowing complexion to add a fresh and modern feel.
Balanced shadows: Blend frosty eyeshadows with neutral tones to create more depth and sophistication.
Soft gloss: Choose a translucent or subtly shimmering gloss instead of overly frosted lips for a polished finish.
The icy makeup of the 2000s defined a generation and continues to inspire updated versions today. Whether you’re revisiting the Y2K era or giving it a modern twist, this aesthetic remains synonymous with glamour and sparkle!
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