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.
1.4 Groovy Seventies: A Time for Experimentation
The 1970s were all about breaking the mold and embracing individuality. This freedom of expression translated beautifully into the world of makeup, where shimmer, bold colors, and a focus on the eyes reigned supreme.
- Brows: Brows became thicker and fuller in the seventies, often left natural or lightly shaped. Think Farrah Fawcett and Donna Summer – their full brows framed their faces and added a touch of drama.
- Eyes: This is where the seventies truly shine (pun intended!). Shimmery eyeshadows in all colors of the rainbow were a major trend. Think metallic golds, vibrant blues, and even greens – anything that made your eyes pop! Dramatic eyeliner, both in classic black and colorful shades, was also popular. Think of smokey eyes with a lighter shimmery shade blended on top for a truly disco-worthy look. False lashes were a must-have for adding extra volume and drama.
- Lips: While bold colors like red and berry remained popular, the seventies also saw the rise of nude and glossy lips. Think of actresses like Jane Fonda and Ali MacGraw, whose natural-looking lips balanced out the dramatic eye makeup.
- Base: A sun-kissed complexion was the goal in the seventies. Think bronzer used generously on the cheeks and forehead to create a warm, healthy glow. Highlighting was also used to add dimension and create a dewy finish.
Pro Tip: To recreate this fun and funky retro makeup look, invest in a good eyeshadow palette with a variety of shimmery shades. Don’t be afraid to experiment with color combinations and create a look that’s uniquely you! For the lips, a glossy nude lipstick is a perfect choice, but if you’re feeling bold, go for a classic red with a touch of bronzer on your cheeks.
1.5 The Eighties: Excess and Big, Bold Beauty
The 1980s were all about excess, and makeup was no exception. This decade saw an explosion of bright colors, dramatic eyeshadow, and bold lips. Think big hair, neon clothes, and a retro makeup look that matched the energy of the time.
- Brows: Brows in the eighties were all about definition. Think thicker shapes with a high arch, often heavily penciled in for a dramatic effect. Think Brooke Shields and Madonna – their brows were a statement piece in their own right.
- Eyes: Electrifying brights like blue, pink, and purple were all the rage, often used in bold, colorful combinations. Dramatic smokey eyes also remained popular, but with a touch more color added to the mix. Think of the iconic blue eyeshadow look of David Bowie or the smoky purple eyes of Debbie Harry. Think big, bold application with heavy blending for a truly eighties effect.
- Lips: Fuchsia pinks and bold reds were the lip colors of choice. Think matte finishes with a sharp lip line for a dramatic, statement-making look. Outlines were also popular, where a darker lip liner was used to define the lips beyond their natural line.
- Base: Flawless skin with a matte finish was the goal. Think heavy foundation applied to create a smooth, even canvas. Blush was used sparingly, if at all, to avoid detracting from the bold eyes and lips.
Pro Tip: To achieve this eighties-inspired retro makeup look, don’t shy away from color! Play around with bright eyeshadows and bold lip colors to create a look that’s truly eye-catching. For the brows, invest in a good brow pencil and practice shaping them into a high arch. Remember, the eighties were all about making a statement, so don’t be afraid to go bold!
2. Find Your Decade: Choosing the Perfect Retro Makeup Look for You
Now that we’ve explored some iconic retro makeup looks from different decades, it’s time to find the perfect one for you! Here are a few things to consider:
2.1 Let Your Personality Shine Through:
Think about what kind of vibe you want to project. Do you channel the flapper confidence of the twenties? Or maybe the Hollywood glamour of the forties? Perhaps you love the boldness of the sixties or the shimmery disco vibes of the seventies. Choose a decade whose aesthetic resonates with your personality and style.
2.2 Consider the Occasion:
Are you dressing up for a themed party or a night out? Or maybe you just want to add a touch of vintage flair to your everyday look. The occasion can help you decide how dramatic or subtle you want your retro makeup look to be.
2.3 Embrace Your Natural Beauty:
Remember, makeup is all about enhancing your natural features, not covering them up. Choose a retro makeup look that complements your eye shape, skin tone, and hair color. Don’t be afraid to adapt elements from different decades to create a look that feels uniquely you.
3. Step Back in Time: A Guide to Creating Your Retro Makeup Look
Now that you’ve chosen your decade, let’s get down to the fun part – creating your retro makeup look! Here’s a step-by-step guide:
3.1 The Canvas: Achieve a Flawless Base
No matter what decade you’re channeling, a flawless base is essential. Here’s how to achieve it:
- Moisturize: Start with a good moisturizer to hydrate your skin and create a smooth canvas for makeup application.
- Prime: Apply a primer to help your makeup stay put throughout the day and minimize the appearance of pores.
- Foundation: Choose a foundation that matches your skin tone perfectly. Apply it in a thin layer, focusing on areas that need more coverage.
- Concealer: Use concealer to hide any blemishes or dark circles. Opt for a shade that’s one shade lighter than your foundation for a natural look.
- Set it with Powder: Set your foundation and concealer with a translucent powder to prevent creasing and ensure your makeup stays put all day long.
3.2 Brows on Fleek: Shaping for Your Chosen Era
Brows play a crucial role in framing your face and defining your retro makeup look. Here’s how to shape them for your chosen decade:
- Twenties: Thin, sharply arched brows are the way to go. Use a brow pencil or pomade to define and shape your brows.
- Forties: Opt for slightly fuller brows with a softer arch. Fill in any sparse areas with a brow pencil, but avoid overdrawing them.
- Sixties: Thinner brows with a slight arch remain popular, but a more natural look is also acceptable. Use a brow pencil to lightly define your brows.
- Seventies: Thicker, fuller brows are in! Leave them natural or lightly shape them with a brow brush and clear brow gel.
- Eighties: Bold, defined brows with a high arch are the key. Use a brow pencil to heavily define and shape your brows.
3.3 Eye Know You’re Looking Gorgeous: Techniques for Retro Eyes
Now comes the fun part: creating the eyes that define your retro makeup look! Here’s a breakdown by decade:
3.3.1 The Twenties: Smokey Drama
- Apply a light eyeshadow base to prevent creasing.
- Use a dark brown or black eyeshadow to create a smokey effect on your lid. Blend it upwards and outwards for a diffused look.
- Line your upper and lower lash lines with a kohl pencil for a dramatic effect. Smudge the liner slightly for a softer look.
- Apply mascara generously to both your upper and lower lashes for added drama.
3.3.2 The Forties: Winged Eyeliner Extravaganza
- Apply a light eyeshadow base to your lids.
- Choose a neutral eyeshadow shade and apply it all over your lid for a base.
- Use a liquid liner or a well-sharpened pencil to create a sharp wing at the outer corner of your eye.
- Line your upper lash line with the liner, extending it slightly beyond the outer corner of your eye to create the wing.
- Apply mascara to your upper lashes, focusing on the outer corners to elongate them.
3.3.3 The Sixties: Twiggy’s Take on Liner
- Apply a light eyeshadow base to your lids.
- Apply a neutral eyeshadow shade all over your lid.
- Apply a white eyeliner pencil to your waterline (the inner rim of your lower eyelid) to create a wide-eyed effect.
- Use a black liquid liner or a very sharp pencil to draw a thin line along your upper lash line, starting from the inner corner and extending outwards slightly. Don’t create a wing, keep the line thin and close to the lash line.
- Apply a few individual false lashes or cluster lashes on the outer corners of your eyes for extra drama (optional).
- Apply mascara to your top lashes, focusing on the top and the outer corners to create a doll-like effect.
3.3.4 The Seventies: Shimmer and Bold Pops
- Apply a light eyeshadow primer to your lids.
- Choose a shimmery eyeshadow in a bold color like blue, green, or gold and apply it all over your lid. Blend it upwards and outwards for a diffused look.
- Apply a darker shade of the same color in the crease of your eyelid to add depth. Blend well to avoid harsh lines.
- Line your upper lash line with a black or dark brown eyeliner, extending it slightly beyond the outer corner for a subtle wing.
- Apply mascara generously to both your upper and lower lashes for added drama. For a truly disco-worthy look, you can even try using colored mascara on your lower lashes.
3.3.5 The Eighties: Electrifying Brights and Dramatic Smokey Eyes
- Apply a light eyeshadow primer to your lids.
- Choose a bold, bright eyeshadow shade like blue, pink, or purple and apply it all over your lid. Blend it upwards and outwards for a diffused look.
- Alternatively, you can create a dramatic smokey eye using black or dark brown eyeshadow. Blend it heavily for a smoldering effect.
- Line your upper lash line with a black eyeliner, creating a thick, dramatic line. You can also add a wing at the outer corner for extra oomph.
- Apply mascara generously to both your upper and lower lashes. For an even more dramatic look, you can try using false lashes.
Pro Tip: When experimenting with bold eyeshadow colors, remember to blend! Blending is key to creating a polished and professional-looking retro makeup look.
3.4 Cheeky Chic: A Touch of Retro Blush
Blush adds a touch of color and dimension to your face, completing your retro makeup look. Here’s how to apply it for different decades:
- Twenties & Forties: A subtle flush of color on the apples of your cheeks is ideal. Opt for a peachy pink or rose-colored blush and apply it lightly with a fluffy brush.
- Sixties: A hint of pink blush applied high on the cheekbones is the way to go. Think of a youthful, doll-like flush.
- Seventies: Bronzer takes center stage in the seventies. Apply it generously to the apples of your cheeks, temples, and forehead for a warm, sun-kissed glow. You can also add a touch of peach blush for a healthy-looking flush.
- Eighties: Blush is used sparingly in the eighties, if at all. Focus on the other elements of your makeup, like the bold eyes and lips, and keep the cheeks clean and sculpted with a touch of bronzer for definition.
3.5 Pucker Up: Perfecting Your Retro Lip
The perfect lip completes your retro makeup look. Here’s how to achieve iconic lip styles from different eras:
3.5.1 The Twenties: The Bold Berry
- Exfoliate your lips to ensure a smooth canvas.
- Line your lips with a lip liner in a shade slightly darker than your chosen lipstick color. Overdraw the cupid’s bow slightly for a defined look.
- Apply a bold berry lipstick in a shade like cherry red, ruby red, or plum. Use a lip brush for a precise application.
- Blot your lips with a tissue to remove excess lipstick and create a more matte finish.
3.5.2 The Forties: The Classic Red Lip
- Exfoliate and moisturize your lips for a smooth application.
- Line your lips with a lip liner in a shade that matches your lipstick perfectly. Define the cupid’s bow for a classic look.
- Apply a classic red lipstick using a lip brush for a flawless application. Blot your lips with a tissue for a matte finish.
3.5.3 The Sixties: Playful Pinks
- Exfoliate and moisturize your lips.
- Line your lips with a lip liner in a shade that matches your chosen lipstick color, or even a shade slightly lighter for a softer look.
- Apply a light pink or baby pink lipstick for a playful, youthful vibe. You can also opt for a glossy finish for extra shine.
3.5.4 The Seventies: Glossy Goodness
- Exfoliate and moisturize your lips.
- Line your lips with a lip liner in a shade that matches your chosen lip color, or skip the liner altogether for a more natural look.
- Apply a glossy lipstick or lip gloss in a nude shade or a soft pink for a natural, dewy finish.
3.5.5 The Eighties: Fuchsia Fun and Bold Outlines
- Exfoliate and moisturize your lips.
- Line your lips with a lip liner in a shade that’s darker than your chosen lipstick color. You can even overline your lips slightly to create a fuller appearance.
- Apply a bold fuchsia or bright red lipstick for a dramatic statement. You can also opt for a matte finish for a true eighties look.
Pro Tip: Don’t forget to blot your lipstick after application! This will help prevent it from smudging and ensure it stays put throughout the day (or night!).
4. Retro Ready: Setting the Stage for Your Vintage Look
Your makeup is on point, but there’s more to a retro makeup look than just the face! Here are some additional tips to complete your transformation:
4.1 Hairstyling for a Complete Transformation
Hairstyles play a crucial role in channeling the vibe of your chosen decade. Here are some ideas:
- Twenties: Think finger waves, bobs with headbands, or cloche hats to complete your flapper look.
- Forties: Victory rolls, sleek chignons, or loose curls with side pins are perfect for a touch of Hollywood glam.
- Sixties: Go big or go home! Think beehive updos, bouffants, or Twiggy’s iconic mod cut.
- Seventies: Long, flowing waves with a center part or feathered hairstyles scream disco queen.
- Eighties: Teased bangs, crimped hair, or high ponytails with scrunchies are quintessentially eighties.
Pro Tip: Don’t have the time or skills for a complicated hairstyle? Look for vintage-inspired hair accessories like headbands, barrettes, or scarves to add a touch of retro flair to your everyday hairstyle.
4.2 Accessorize Like They Did in the Past
The right accessories can truly elevate your retro makeup look. Here are some tips for different decades:
- Twenties: Think pearl necklaces, long dangly earrings, and headbands with feathers or jewels.
- Forties: Cat-eye sunglasses, pillbox hats, and long gloves add a touch of Hollywood sophistication.
- Sixties: Go bold with geometric earrings, statement necklaces, and headbands with flowers or peace signs.
- Seventies: Round sunglasses, chunky necklaces with peace symbols, and headbands with a boho vibe are perfect for channeling your inner flower child.
- Eighties: Neon leg warmers, oversized statement earrings, and chunky bracelets complete an eighties-inspired look.
Pro Tip: Don’t be afraid to raid your grandma’s jewelry box or hit up a vintage store for unique accessories that add a touch of authenticity to your retro makeup look.
4.3 Channel Your Inner Movie Star: Confidence is Key!
The final touch to your retro makeup look? Confidence! Remember, makeup is a form of self-expression. Embrace the vintage vibes, own your unique style, and rock that look with confidence. After all, the most beautiful accessory you can wear is a smile (and maybe a touch of retro flair!).
5. Bonus Round: Retro Makeup Products for the Modern Muse
While some vintage makeup products might be hard to find, there are plenty of modern options that can help you achieve a retro makeup look. Here are a few suggestions:
- 5.1 Cream Blushes for a Vintage Flush: Cream blushes offer a dewy finish and are perfect for recreating the subtle blush looks of the twenties and forties.
- 5.2 Kohl Pencils for Classic Smokey Eyes: Kohl pencils are perfect for creating the dramatic smokey eyes popular in the twenties, forties, and even the eighties.
- 5.3 False Lashes for a Touch of Old Hollywood Glamour: False lashes add instant drama and volume, perfect for channeling the glamour of the forties and fifties.
Pro Tip: Don’t be afraid to experiment with different makeup products and techniques to find what works best for you. Remember, there’s no one-size-fits-all approach to a retro makeup look. The most important thing is to have fun and express your unique style!
6. Embrace Your Inner Vintage Icon
So there you have it! With these tips and tricks, you’re well on your way to creating your perfect retro makeup look. Remember, makeup is a way to celebrate different eras and express your creativity. So, channel your inner vintage icon, embrace the past, and create a look that’s uniquely you!
7. Let’s Chat! Share Your Favorite Retro Makeup Looks
We’d love to hear from you! What’s your favorite decade for retro makeup looks? Share your favorite tips, tricks, and inspiration in the comments below. Let’s get this retro makeup party started!