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.
