Retro Makeup Look is back in style! Unleash your inner vintage vixen and channel iconic looks from the past. This guide explores makeup trends from the roaring twenties to the electrifying eighties, helping you find the perfect retro vibe for you. Learn how to achieve flawless base, dramatic eyes, bold lips, and more. Plus, discover bonus tips on hairstyling, accessories, and building confidence to complete your retro transformation. Get ready to embrace the past and create a show-stopping makeup look!
Welcome to the Wayback Machine: A Journey Through Retro Makeup Eras
Ever flipped through old black and white photos or scrolled through vintage fashion icons and thought, “Man, their makeup was fierce!”? Well, darlings, you’re not alone. There’s a certain undeniable allure to a well-done retro makeup look. It’s like stepping into a time machine, channeling the elegance of bygone eras, and reminding everyone that flawless faces have been around for a lot longer than Instagram filters.
But where do you even begin? Fear not, fellow makeup enthusiasts! This guide is your passport to a world of retro beauty. We’ll explore iconic styles from the roaring twenties to the electrifying eighties, helping you find the perfect vintage vibe to match your personality.
So, grab your favorite lipstick (or maybe a ruby red one for the occasion!), put on some classic tunes, and get ready to unleash your inner makeup maven with a touch of retro flair.
1.1 The Roaring Twenties: Flapper Fabulous
The 1920s were all about bold statements and shaking off the restrictions of the past. Think flapper dresses, cloche hats, and, of course, a retro makeup look that emphasized the eyes and lips.
- Brows: Thin, dark brows with a sharp arch were the order of the day. Think Louise Brooks and Clara Bow – their brows practically defined the era.
- Eyes: Smoky eyes were all the rage. Deep blacks and browns were used to create a dramatic, almost kohl-rimmed effect. Think smudged-out eyeliner extending towards the temples for a sultry, mysterious vibe.
- Lips: A bold red lip was the epitome of flapper style. Think cherry red, ruby red, crimson – anything that screamed confidence and a touch of rebellion. The application was all about a defined cupid’s bow, often achieved with a lip liner for extra precision.
- Base: While foundation wasn’t as heavy as in later decades, a flawless base was still important. Think a light, even application that focused on concealing imperfections and achieving a porcelain-like complexion.
Pro Tip: To recreate this retro makeup look, invest in a good kohl pencil and some creamy black eyeshadow. Don’t be afraid to experiment with smudging and layering to achieve that smoky effect. And remember, when it comes to the lips, the redder the better!
1.2 The Alluring Forties: Hollywood Glamour Takes Center Stage
The 1940s ushered in a new era of makeup, heavily influenced by the silver screen and the rise of Hollywood stars. This decade was all about sophistication, polished beauty, and creating a flawless, feminine look.
- Brows: Unlike the sharp arches of the twenties, brows in the forties were slightly fuller and more rounded. Think Greta Garbo and Veronica Lake – their brows framed their faces beautifully without being overly dramatic.
- Eyes: Winged eyeliner became the signature look of the forties. A sharp, upward flick at the outer corners of the eyes elongated the shape and created an air of glamour. Think of actresses like Lauren Bacall and Jean Harlow, whose sultry gazes were accentuated by perfectly winged liner.
- Lips: Bold red lips remained popular, but a wider range of colors started to emerge. Think classic Hollywood reds, as well as deep berries and even some coral pinks. The key was a well-defined lip shape with a focus on a full, cupid’s bow.
- Base: Flawless skin was paramount. Think a matte foundation applied perfectly to create a smooth, even canvas. Cream blushes in rosy hues were used to add a touch of color to the cheeks.
Pro Tip: Mastering the winged eyeliner is key to achieving this retro makeup look. Invest in a good liquid liner or a well-sharpened eyeliner pencil and practice makes perfect! For the lips, a red lipstick with a blue undertone is a classic choice that channels the Hollywood glam of the forties.
1.3 Swinging Sixties: Boldness and Mod Styles Collide
The 1960s were a decade of change, rebellion, and experimentation. This definitely translated into the world of makeup, where bold colors and innovative techniques emerged alongside the rise of the mod movement.
- Brows: Thinner brows with a slight arch remained popular, but a more natural look started to gain traction. Think Twiggy, the iconic model whose doe-eyed look and minimal brows redefined beauty standards.
- Eyes: This is where things get interesting! Bold colors like blue, green, and even silver eyeshadow started to appear alongside classic black. Think of the iconic Twiggy eye with its heavy emphasis on the upper lash line and the use of white liner on the waterline to create a wide-eyed effect. False lashes also gained popularity for a dramatic, glamorous look.
- Lips: Pinks of all shades, from baby pink to a bold fuchsia, took center stage. Think of the playful makeup looks of actresses like Audrey Hepburn and Brigitte Bardot. Glossy finishes were also popular, adding a touch of youthful shine.
- Base: While a flawless base was still desired, a more natural look with a dewy finish started to emerge. Think light foundation with a focus on highlighting the natural features.
Pro Tip: To achieve the sixties retro makeup look, don’t be afraid to experiment with color! Play around with different eyeshadow shades and find one that complements your eye color. For the lips, a light pink gloss is a perfect way to channel the playful energy of the decade.
