The power pout of 2025 is here, and it’s darker than ever. Black lips, once a bold symbol of gothic style and avant-garde fashion, have now become a mainstream statement, reshaping beauty standards and trends. From silent film heroines of the 1920s to modern-day celebrities like Rihanna, the edgy black-lipped look has made a dramatic return—courtesy of Gen Z and a growing embrace of goth culture.
Black lips are experiencing a revival, thanks to the goth resurgence in fashion and beauty, driven by Gen Z. This generation, known for reimagining old trends with a modern twist, has embraced the black-lipped look with open arms. Jenna Ortega’s portrayal of Wednesday Addams in the hit Netflix series Wednesday played a pivotal role in bringing back goth glam. Ortega’s hauntingly cool black pout captured the dark yet chic essence of the goth aesthetic, inspiring a wave of black lipstick enthusiasts.
While the goth revival has undeniably pushed black lips to the forefront, the look also has deep roots in the 1920s. Silent film stars like Clara Bow and May Murray were pioneers of the bold black lip, setting the stage for a fashion statement that would transcend decades. Their dramatic makeup choices, paired with strong brows and sleek bobbed hair, embodied the spirit of flapper style—rebellious, empowering, and unapologetically bold. Today, the resurgence of black lipstick is both a nod to the glam of the past and a symbol of modern empowerment.
The 2025 Autumn/Winter runway shows further solidified black lips as a beauty trend to watch. At Schiaparelli’s prestigious fashion show, legendary makeup artist Pat McGrath crafted fierce black lips for the models, transforming them into femme fatales with inky, glossy pouts. The dramatic look added a touch of elegance and danger, aligning perfectly with the collection’s bold, opulent designs. This runway moment was the final push for black lipstick to transcend niche goth circles and become a staple in the fashion and beauty world.
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The influence of black lipstick has reached the A-list, with icons like Rihanna leading the charge. The pop sensation, known for her fearless fashion choices, has embraced black lipstick with unapologetic flair. Whether gracing red carpets or slaying everyday looks, Rihanna’s bold use of black lips has become synonymous with modern beauty rebellion. Other celebrities, such as Anja Rubik, have also been seen sporting this daring trend, showing that black lips aren’t just for goths anymore—they’re for anyone wanting to make a statement.
Black lipstick has a magnetic appeal. It’s bold, moody, and mysterious—qualities that resonate with those looking to break free from conventional beauty standards. The look is not just about the color; it’s about the attitude that comes with it. Wearing black lipstick is a declaration of confidence and individuality. In a beauty landscape dominated by natural looks and nude shades, the black lip offers a refreshing contrast, offering a new way to express boldness and personality through makeup.
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In 2025, black lips have become more than just a trend—they are a statement. From the silent film era’s iconic actresses to modern-day trendsetters, black lipstick has evolved into a symbol of strength, confidence, and creative expression. Whether fueled by nostalgia for the 1920s or the resurgence of goth culture, the black-lipped look is rewriting the rules of beauty. As celebrities and fashion runways continue to embrace this dark and daring trend, it’s clear that black lipstick is here to stay, empowering those who wear it to take charge of their beauty narrative.
