If anyone knows which Y2K trends deserve another moment, it’s Paris Hilton.
The longtime style icon has been shaping beauty and fashion since the aughts, so it’s only fitting she’s the face of NYX Professional Makeup’s latest If You NYX You Know campaign.
Inspired by Los Angeles, California staple, Mel’s Diner, the campaign serves up a playful dose of nostalgia while giving a nod to Hilton’s The Simple Life days, channeling her time working at Sonic alongside Nicole Richie.
While reflecting on the past, Hilton tells ET which looks she’d happily wear again, and the one she’d rather leave behind.
“I had so much fun with fashion during that era, and I love that so many of those looks have become iconic now, but I think I would leave Ed Hardy in the archives,” she says.
Still, some throwback staples are here to stay.
“Pink, sparkle, glossy lips, and a really cute matching set will always be a part of my style. I’ve always loved fashion and beauty that feel feminine, fun, and confident.”
Of course, maintaining Hilton’s signature glam routine begins with products she knows have staying power.
“My secret is starting with the right long-wear formulas. I love using a liner or stain first, so the color really stays in place, and then adding gloss on top for that glam finish. The Lip Lingerie Lip Liner Stain and Lip I.V. Hydrating Gloss Stain are amazing because they give you color that lasts, but still feels comfortable and hydrating, so you can have dinner, take photos and not worry about constantly touching up,” she shares.
“I lock everything in with The Face Glue Setting Spray. I’m constantly running around as a mom, CEO, DJ and entrepreneur, so I need my makeup to last and still look flawless,” Hilton adds.
The reality star’s makeup bag also includes a mix of longtime favorites and newer additions.
“I love pairing Butter Gloss in Crème Brûlée with Slim Lip Pencil in Nude Pink. It gives that perfect soft nude-pink lip that works for day or night. Since pink is my favorite color, I’m also obsessed with Buttermelt Blush in Butta Together. It’s such a gorgeous baby pink and gives the skin that fresh, glowy look.”
While Hilton draws inspiration from her early days in the spotlight, her wardrobe has evolved with her.
“I wear those trends in a more modern, polished way. It’s still very Paris, just more elevated as a mom, CEO and sliving.”
Welcoming son Phoenix, 3, and daughter London, 2, with husband Carter Reum, has also shifted her approach to self-care.
“I’m much more intentional about taking care of myself. I try to stay hydrated, eat things that make me feel good, and make wellness part of my routine whenever I can, whether that’s skincare, red light therapy, or just getting quiet time with my babies. My schedule is very full, so for me it’s about consistency, not perfection.”
Parenthood has changed her outlook on beauty, too.
“Beauty has always been such a fun way for me to express myself, but becoming a mom has made me feel confident in a whole new way. My babies are my world, and they remind me every day what really matters. I still love getting glam, but now confidence feels deeper. It’s about feeling happy, grounded, strong, and comfortable in who you are.”
Those are exactly the lessons she hopes to pass on to her children.
“I want to teach them that beauty starts with being kind, confident, and true to yourself. Of course, I’ll also teach them the classics: always take care of your skin, wear sunscreen, drink water, never sleep in your makeup, and have fun with beauty. Makeup should be playful and creative. It should make you feel like the best version of yourself.”
