There was a multitude of iconic trends throughout the 2000s era. Just a few of these memorable clothing trends include spaghetti strap tanks, tracksuits, and anything denim. However, the makeup which completed these looks is not to be overlooked. The most influential makeup trends through this period were long lashes, glowing skin, smokey eyeshadow, and red lip gloss.
Glowing skin became a trend as skin illuminators, highlighters, and glowing skin products became popular. Models embraced their natural beauty with natural skin makeup with a dewy shimmer finish. In Vogue magazine, dated back to 2002, Volume 193 Issue, 8 Page 2, several models are photographed wearing minimal makeup but glowing cheeks. Pictured are two models with different hair colors and facial structures but identical makeup. Both models employ a natural appearance that has a radiant finish to them. In addition to glowing face makeup, another iconic statement was red lipstick or red lip gloss. Reese Witherspoon is also pictured in this issue wearing a navy blazer, low bun, minimal face makeup, and striking red lip gloss. The red lip gloss is a statement and adds character and personality to her outfit. Countless celebrities also took after the red lipstick trend of this time period, such as Selena Gomez, Katie Holmes, Ann Hathaway, and many more.
In terms of eye makeup, there were two significant trends of this time period. The first trend was the smokey eye. This trend became very popular and has remained a timeless trend. In the Vogue Archive from 2002, Vol. 193, Issue 8, Page 10, Sophia Loren is photographed in a stunning red gown, dark smokey eyeshadow, glowing skin, and a statement red lip color. The smoky eye became seen through celebrities photographed at events because it was the perfect makeup for every red-carpet event. The second eye trend of the 2000s was white eyeshadow. This color made every eye color pop and had a natural finish for everyday makeup. Some people would dress this look up with red lipstick, and others would keep it natural and minimalistic with a natural pairing lip color.
Long eyelashes were one of the most remembered trends from this time period. It is argued that this trend began with Jennifer Lopez at the Grammys in 2000 wearing a Versace gown. Lopez stole the show with her look for this event which included red fox fur lashes by Shu Uemura. These lashes were light red, and she wore a minimal amount of mascara with them. As a result of this iconic look, every woman envied the appearance of long, thick, and luscious eyelashes. Soon after, lash bars and boutiques began opening in department stores which soon led to a new eyelash extensions business. In addition to extensions, lash serums that promised growth and renewal of lashes were seen. Mascaras began to be marketed as serums to adjust to the consumers’ desires in this era. In Vogue Volume 190, Issue 1, Page 2, Brittney Spears is photographed in an all-black outfit with dark smokey eye makeup and fake lashes. During this era, fake eyelashes became essential for any red-carpet event.
During the 2000s, smoky eyes, false eyelashes, red lipstick, and glowing skin were significant trends. Several of these trends, such as red lipstick and dark smokey eyeshadow, became statement looks to complete any outfit. While glowing skin and white eyeshadow maintained the natural yet elegant demeanor. These trends were begun through celebrities such as Jennifer Lopez and false eyelashes or Reese Witherspoon with statement red lipstick. In contrast, other trends were evoked through magazines and beauty company campaigns. Regardless of how these trends gained popularity, these trends remain some of the most paramount makeup looks of all time.