Clinique brings back Chubby Sticks: 28 shades of nostalgia and joy

Clinique’s iconic Chubby Sticks, first launched in 1997, are enjoying a major comeback. The brand has expanded the line to include four products for lips, cheeks, and face: Moisturizing Lip Color Balm, Cheek Color Balm, Sculpting Contour, and Sculpting Highlight. The full palette now features 28 shades, including fun new options like Happiest Happy and Poppin’ Pink.

According to Christie Sclater, Clinique’s Senior Vice President of Global Marketing, stick-format makeup continues to resonate with consumers. “People are gravitating toward makeup that feels intuitive, easy, and joyful,” she says. Chubby Sticks perfectly fit this philosophy: mess-free, easy to apply, and reminiscent of happy memories.

The trend of “nostalgiacore” in beauty is gaining momentum. Gen Z is drawn to products that connect them to earlier cultural moments, while millennials are returning to brands from their childhood. A prime example is Clinique’s Black Honey Lip Balm, launched in 1971, which remains a top seller in the U.S. and has found a new audience among Gen Z following its viral success on TikTok.

Chubby Sticks are a perfect reminder that sometimes, the simplest products bring the most joy.