1970s Makeup Styles: Iconic Looks & Tutorials
1970s Makeup Styles: Iconic Looks & Tutorials
The 1970s was a decade of bold experimentation, and makeup reflected this spirit. From the glamorous disco looks to the natural, earthy vibes, 1970s makeup offered a wide range of options for women to express their individuality. This era saw a shift from the heavy, painted-on styles of the 1960s to a more relaxed and expressive approach. Let's dive into the iconic looks and tutorials that defined 1970s makeup and learn how to recreate them today.
The Disco Fever: Bold & Glamorous
The disco era was all about dazzling glamour and making a statement. Thick, dramatic eyelashes, shimmering eyeshadow, and bold lips were staples of the disco look.
Eyes:
- Shimmering Eyeshadow: Metallic silver, gold, and bronze eyeshadows were heavily used, often applied all over the lid and blended up to the brow bone. A touch of iridescent shimmer on the cheekbones added extra sparkle.
- Thick Eyeliner: Thick lines of black or brown eyeliner were applied along the lash line, often extended into a winged shape.
- Dramatic Eyelashes: Multiple coats of mascara or false eyelashes were used to create a dramatic, wide-eyed look.
Lips:
- Bold Colors: Red, orange, and fuchsia lipsticks were popular choices, often with a glossy finish.
- Lip Liner: A matching lip liner was used to outline the lips and prevent feathering.
Cheeks:
- Blush: Cream blush in shades of peach, coral, or rose was applied to the apples of the cheeks for a healthy glow.
Tutorial:
- Prep the Skin: Start with a clean face and apply a light foundation or tinted moisturizer.
- Create a Base: Use a neutral eyeshadow as a primer over your eyelids.
- Apply Shimmering Eyeshadow: Use a flat eyeshadow brush to apply a shimmery eyeshadow over the entire eyelid.
- Define with Eyeliner: Draw a thick line along the upper lash line, extending it outwards into a wing.
- Bold Lashes: Apply several coats of mascara or use false eyelashes.
- Cheeky Flush: Apply blush to the apples of your cheeks.
- Glossy Lips: Apply a bold lipstick in your favorite shade.
The Natural Look: Effortlessly Chic
While disco glam was popular, many women embraced a more natural look that emphasized healthy, glowing skin and minimal makeup.
Skin:
- Even Skin Tone: Focus on achieving a flawless, even skin tone using light foundation or tinted moisturizer.
- Rosy Cheeks: A light application of cream or powder blush was used to add a natural flush.
- Dewy Finish: Highlighter was used sparingly to create a natural, dewy finish.
Eyes:
- Neutral Eyeshadow: Soft shades of brown, beige, or peach were used to define the eyelid crease and brighten the inner corners.
- Mascara: One or two coats of mascara were used to define the lashes.
Lips:
- Nude or Soft Pink: Nude or soft pink lipsticks were popular for a subtle, natural look.
Tutorial:
- Prep the Skin: Start with a clean face and apply a light moisturizer.
- Even Skin Tones: Apply a light foundation or tinted moisturizer for an even skin tone.
- Rosy Glow: Apply a light touch of blush to the apples of your cheeks.
- Natural Eyes: Use a brown, beige, or peach eyeshadow to define the crease.
- Define Lashes: Apply one to two coats of mascara.
- Subtle Lips: Apply a nude or soft pink lipstick.
The Bohemian Look: Earthy & Free-Spirited
The bohemian look reflected the free-spirited and earthy vibe of the 1970s. It embraced natural beauty and a relaxed, carefree attitude.
Skin:
- Minimal Coverage: Light foundation or tinted moisturizer was used sparingly to even out skin tone, allowing imperfections to show through.
- Bronzer: Bronzer was applied to the cheeks, forehead, and nose for a sun-kissed glow.
- Blush: Blush in shades of peach or rose was used to add a natural flush.
Eyes:
- Earthy Tones: Eyeshadows in shades of brown, gold, or green were used to create a subtle, earthy look.
- Long Lashes: Mascara was used to define the lashes and create a natural, lengthening effect.
Lips:
- Natural Shades: Nude, peach, or soft pink lipsticks were popular choices.
- Gloss: Lip gloss was often used to add a touch of shine.
Tutorial:
- Prep the Skin: Start with a clean face and apply a light moisturizer.
- Natural Coverage: Use a light foundation or tinted moisturizer to even out skin tone.
- Bronzy Glow: Apply bronzer to your cheeks, forehead, and nose.
- Earthy Eyes: Use a brown, gold, or green eyeshadow to define the crease.
- Long and Lush Lashes: Apply mascara to define and lengthen your lashes.
- Natural Lips: Apply a nude, peach, or soft pink lipstick.
Beyond Basic Beauty: The Bold & Experimental
In addition to the main looks, 1970s makeup also embraced bold and experimental trends.
Bold Eyebrows: Thick, sculpted eyebrows were a defining feature of 1970s makeup.
Colored Liner: Blue, green, and purple eyeliner were popular for adding a pop of color.
Glitter: Glitter was used liberally on eyelids, cheekbones, and even lips for a dramatic and festive look.
The Influence of Pop Culture
1970s makeup was heavily influenced by pop culture icons of the era.
The Queen of Disco, Donna Summer: Donna Summer's bold makeup looks with thick eyeliner, shimmering eyeshadow, and dramatic lashes inspired countless women.
The Glamorous Cher: Cher's dramatic look with thick, sculpted eyebrows, heavy eyeliner, and bold lips was a symbol of 1970s glamour.
The Iconic Farrah Fawcett: Farrah Fawcett's effortless beauty with her long blonde hair and natural makeup look became a timeless trend.
1970s Makeup: Timeless Tips & Tricks
While the makeup trends of the 1970s are a fun throwback, some of the key principles remain relevant even today.
- Prepare Your Skin: Proper skin preparation is essential for any makeup look. Use a gentle cleanser and moisturizer to ensure a smooth and even canvas.
- Focus on Eyes or Lips: Choose to focus on either your eyes or lips to avoid an overly heavy look.
- Experiment with Colors: Don't be afraid to experiment with different colors and textures.
- Blend, Blend, Blend: Blending is key to achieving a seamless and polished look.
FAQs
Q: What was the most popular lipstick shade in the 1970s? A: Red, orange, and fuchsia were the most popular lipstick shades.
Q: What was the purpose of using lip liner in the 1970s? A: Lip liner was used to outline the lips and prevent feathering, creating a defined and polished look.
Q: What was the most popular mascara style in the 1970s? A: Thick, dramatic lashes were a staple of 1970s makeup. Multiple coats of mascara or false eyelashes were often used to create this effect.
Conclusion
1970s makeup was a time of bold experimentation and individual expression. From the glamorous disco looks to the natural, earthy vibes, there was a style for every woman. Whether you're looking to recreate an iconic look or simply gain inspiration from the past, the 1970s offers a wealth of unique and timeless makeup ideas. Explore the bold colors, dramatic textures, and playful beauty trends that defined the decade and let your inner 70s fashionista shine!
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