Remember the days when your mom would get ready for a party, meticulously applying that perfect shade of brown lipstick? The one that made her look like she stepped out of a Bollywood movie? Fast forward to 2024, and that same lipstick is making a comeback, but this time, it’s Gen Z who’s obsessed. Your mom’s 90s lipstick is now Gen Z’s hottest trend! But why? Is it pure nostalgia, or is there something more to this resurgence? In this blog, we’ll dive into the world of 90s brown lipstick, explore why it’s back in vogue, and show you how to rock it with affordable Indian brands like Lakmé. Whether you’re a 90s kid reliving the glory days or a Gen Z trendsetter, this one’s for you!

The 90s Makeup Era: When Brown Ruled the Lips

Ah, the 90s—a time when Bollywood was all about melodrama, fashion was a riot of colors, and makeup was unapologetically bold. Enter the iconic brown lipstick, a staple in every Indian woman’s vanity. From Kajol’s sultry pout in Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge to Madhuri Dixit’s timeless elegance in Hum Aapke Hain Koun..!, brown lips were everywhere. It wasn’t just a trend; it was a statement. “Brown lipstick was the ultimate power move,” says makeup artist Priya Mehta. “It screamed confidence and sophistication, especially in a sea of reds and pinks.”

But it wasn’t just about aesthetics. The 90s were a time of cultural shifts—India was opening up, and so was its beauty scene. Brown lipstick, with its earthy tones, felt like a perfect blend of tradition and modernity. It suited Indian skin tones beautifully, from the dusky to the fair, making it a universal favorite. And let’s not forget the affordability—brands like Lakmé and Elle 18 offered shades like “Coffee” and “Chocolate” that didn’t break the bank. For many, it was their first lipstick, a rite of passage into womanhood.

The Nostalgia Factor: Why We Can’t Let Go

Nostalgia is a powerful thing. It’s like a warm hug from the past, reminding us of simpler times. For millennials, the 90s were a golden era—think landlines, cassette tapes, and, of course, brown lipstick. “I remember raiding my mom’s makeup drawer for that Lakmé brown,” says 32-year-old Ananya from Mumbai. “It was like stepping into her world.” This emotional pull is why trends like brown lipstick keep circling back. It’s not just makeup; it’s a time machine.

But nostalgia isn’t just for the older crowd. Gen Z, who never lived through the 90s, is oddly drawn to it too. Why? Because it’s a rebellion against the polished, Instagram-filtered perfection of today. “The 90s feel raw and real,” says 19-year-old fashion blogger Riya. “Brown lipstick is edgy, imperfect, and that’s what we love.” It’s a nod to an era when beauty was less about likes and more about self-expression. And in a world of fleeting trends, nostalgia offers a comforting anchor.

Gen Z’s Obsession: More Than Just a Throwback

So, why is Gen Z, a generation that worships at the altar of TikTok and Instagram, embracing a trend from before they were born? It’s a mix of authenticity, individuality, and a dash of rebellion. “Gen Z loves to stand out,” says beauty analyst Neha Kapoor. “Brown lipstick is bold—it’s not for the faint-hearted. It’s a statement of confidence.” And in a world where everyone’s chasing the next big thing, reviving a 90s classic feels fresh, ironically.

Social media plays a huge role too. Platforms like TikTok are flooded with #90sMakeup challenges, where creators recreate iconic looks with a modern twist. “I saw a tutorial on how to pair brown lipstick with graphic liner, and I was hooked,” says 21-year-old makeup enthusiast Priya. “It’s like the 90s, but cooler.” Plus, with influencers like Suhana Khan and Ananya Panday sporting brown lips on red carpets, it’s clear: this trend has Gen Z’s stamp of approval.

But it’s not just about aesthetics. Gen Z values sustainability and affordability—enter Indian brands like Lakmé, which offer vegan, cruelty-free options at pocket-friendly prices. “I don’t need to splurge on a foreign brand when Lakmé’s got me covered,” says Riya. It’s a win-win: trendy, ethical, and easy on the wallet.

Affordable Indian Brands: Brown Lips for Every Budget

Speaking of Lakmé, let’s talk about the brands bringing this trend back to life. Lakmé, a household name since the 90s, has always been at the forefront of Indian beauty. Their Absolute Matte Melt Liquid Lip Color in “Caramel Nude” is a fan favorite, offering a rich, velvety finish that screams sophistication. And at under ₹500, it’s a steal. But Lakmé isn’t alone—brands like Elle 18, Maybelline, and Sugar Cosmetics are jumping on the brown bandwagon too.

Elle 18 Color Pop Matte Lipstick in “Cocoa”: A deep, chocolatey hue perfect for dusky tones.
Maybelline SuperStay Matte Ink in “Voyager”: A long-lasting formula that’s bold yet wearable.
Sugar Smudge Me Not Liquid Lipstick in “Rustic”: A warm, terracotta shade that’s Gen Z-approved.

These brands aren’t just affordable; they’re accessible. From tier-1 cities to small towns, you can snag a brown lipstick at your local kirana store or online. “I love that I can experiment without burning a hole in my pocket,” says 25-year-old Nisha from Jaipur. It’s beauty democracy at its finest.

How to Wear Brown Lipstick: Tips for Every Occasion

Now, the million-rupee question: how do you wear brown lipstick without looking like you’ve time-traveled from 1995? It’s all about balance. “Brown can be tricky,” says makeup artist Tanya Sharma. “Pair it with neutral eyes and a soft blush to keep it modern.” Here’s a quick guide:

Daytime Chic: Dab on a sheer brown gloss for a subtle, office-friendly look.
Evening Glam: Go full matte with a deep brown, paired with winged liner for drama.
Festive Flair: Mix it up with a brown-red hybrid for Diwali or weddings.

And don’t forget your undertone. “Cool-toned skin? Opt for mauve-browns. Warm tones? Think caramel or cinnamon,” advises Tanya. The key is to play around—brown lipstick is versatile, from nude to vampy. “I wear it to college with just mascara,” says Priya. “It’s my go-to for that effortless vibe.”

Conclusion: Nostalgia Meets New-Age Cool

So, why is 90s brown lipstick back? It’s a perfect storm of nostalgia, Gen Z’s love for the unconventional, and the affordability of Indian brands like Lakmé. For millennials, it’s a trip down memory lane; for Gen Z, it’s a bold, authentic statement. And for all of us, it’s a reminder that beauty trends are cyclical—what’s old is new again.

Whether you’re raiding your mom’s makeup stash or swiping your card for a fresh tube, brown lipstick is here to stay. So, why not give it a whirl? Head to your nearest store, grab a shade that speaks to you, and pucker up. After all, beauty is about having fun—and maybe, just maybe, channeling your inner Kajol.