Let’s throw it back to the early noughties. Picture this: pleather leggings, gladiator sandals, and those shuttered glasses Kanye West made trendy. But when envisioning the makeup trends of the decade, it was all about pencil-thin arches, teased hair, and candy-coloured shadows. Ahhh, those were the days.
So, when Nicki Minaj posted a pre-Starships era throwback selfie circa 2008, it took us back down a nostalgic rabbit hole. In the side-by-side comparison, the then vs now pictures show that the rapper has not changed one bit. In fact, during those 14 years, all that's really changed is the star’s hair and makeup. She's gone from dark waves, a fringe, and purple eyes to burnt orange locks and peachy-toned makeup.
Even her makeup from 14 years ago is still on trend. Just last year, purple blush went viral on TikTok and, now, thanks to Nicki, we're thinking it's time for purple eyeshadow to make a comeback and have (another) moment. Cue Euphoria glam 3.0...
Of course, it comes as no surprise that the post is inundated with likes and comments. The Super Bass singer's fandom are sending her all the love and praise for the throwback look.
One user wrote: "Queen 👑 🙌 ❤️"
Another added: "Its giving 'ima be 21 forever'"
Everyone's clicking on...
One fan wrote: "Only thing chnged iz ur bank account😍😍😍 u just gon be fine 4 lyfe sister💕"
And one said: "This glow upppp 🔥🔥🔥 dammnnn"
Trends might come and go, but Nicki will continue to slay for decades to come. Long live the Queen of rap.
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Lia Mappoura (she/her) is the Beauty Writer at Cosmopolitan UK, with over four years of experience reporting across the brand's print, social, video and digital platforms. Lia covers everything from emerging trend analysis to viral celebrity hair and makeup moments, making her an expert at spotting the season’s next big beauty look (before it takes over social media feeds).
In 2025, she was named The Rising Media Star at the Love Perfume Awards with The Perfume Shop, recognised for her outstanding digital fragrance content and for building genuine authority within the space. She is passionate about challenging outdated beauty stereotypes, championing inclusive representation in beauty, and educating readers on the trends, products and conversations shaping the industry today. Follow her on Instagram or find her on LinkedIn.
