You can look at the non-make-up era of Kiss from 1983-1995 as managing to keep the band relevant despite many rock sub-genres coming and doing during this period. But also, critics have pointed out that the band was merely following musical trends rather than leading the pack.
During an interview with The Magnificent Others with Billy Corgan, Kiss co-founder Paul Stanley shared his thoughts on the topic. And to his credit, was critical of some of the band’s decisions during this period.
“I mean, the clothes got ridiculous,” Stanley admitted (transcribed by Ultimate Guitar). “We looked like we got dressed in the dark in a costume store, y’know? ‘What do you think my feather earrings?’ ‘Oh, good. Goes with your eye makeup!'”