How Brow Shape and Color Trends Have Changed Over the Last 20 Years

Eyebrows are more than just a facial detail – they define expression, frame the face, and influence how balanced and harmonious someone looks. Over the last 20 years, brow shapes and colors have undergone dramatic changes. At the MONLIS School in Munich, one of the leading beauty academies in Germany, we study these shifts and train our students to master both timeless and modern brow techniques.

Early 2000s: Ultra-Thin and Over-Plucked Brows

In the early 2000s, ultra-thin, heavily plucked brows were all the rage. Celebrities like Christina Aguilera and Gwen Stefani made the look famous. The goal was a clean, minimalistic arch that was seen as elegant and feminine. However, constant plucking often damaged the hair follicles, making regrowth difficult. Many clients today are still trying to restore their brows after that era.

2010s: Bold Brows and the Rise of the “Instagram Look”

By 2010, the trend had completely shifted. Influenced by celebrities like Kim Kardashian and Cara Delevingne, bold and full brows became the new ideal. This was the age of the “Instagram brow” – defined, structured, and often paired with makeup techniques like sharp outlining and gradient shading. Products like brow pomades, powders, and gels boomed in popularity.
At MONLIS School, we teach how to create defined, yet natural-looking brows that avoid an overly artificial effect.

Mid-2010s: Microblading and Semi-Permanent Techniques

As demand grew for longer-lasting results, microblading emerged around 2014. This technique mimics individual hairs through fine tattoo strokes. Powder brows and ombré shading also gained traction. These semi-permanent solutions remain popular today.
We at MONLIS School train our students to combine modern techniques like microblading with traditional brow styling to create customized, natural results.

2020s: A Return to Natural Shapes and Individuality

Since 2020, the trend has shifted again—this time toward softness and individuality. Instead of perfectly symmetrical and heavily drawn brows, people now prefer shapes that flatter their natural facial features. Brow lifting and lamination have become go-to services, giving brows a fuller, brushed-up appearance. Harsh dark shades have been replaced with more natural colors like ash blondes, soft browns, and warm neutrals.
At MONLIS School, we teach lamination and lifting techniques that enhance the natural texture without damaging the hair structure.

Brow Color Evolution: From Harsh Black to Soft Natural Tones

Dark, defined colors such as black or deep brown were once dominant. Today, the focus is on creating harmony. Color is now selected based on skin tone, hair color, and the overall look. Subtle blondes, reddish undertones, and cool ash shades give brows depth and dimension. Color theory is an essential part of our training at MONLIS School, ensuring students can choose and mix shades for any client type.

What Does This Mean for Aspiring Brow Stylists?

Looking back over two decades, one thing is clear: trends change quickly, but technique and knowledge remain essential. A good brow stylist must be able to adapt to new trends while maintaining professional standards. At MONLIS School in Munich, we focus on teaching students to understand trends and tailor their work to each individual, instead of following styles blindly.

From pencil-thin brows to fluffy, lifted arches – styles will always evolve. But the mark of a true professional lies in their training, technique, and artistic eye. For anyone starting out in the beauty industry, it’s not just about knowing what’s popular – it’s about learning how to deliver personalized, high-quality results.
At the MONLIS School in Munich, we provide the practical skills and industry insight needed to thrive in the ever-changing world of beauty.