60s 70s Makeup Looks: Guide To Retro Glam
60s 70s Makeup Looks: A Guide to Retro Glam
The 60s and 70s were eras of radical change, and their influence on fashion and beauty is undeniable. From Twiggy's mod eyes to disco queen glitter, retro makeup continues to inspire modern looks. If you're yearning to channel the bold and glamorous aesthetics of these iconic decades, this guide will help you recreate the most sought-after retro makeup styles.
The Mod Look of the 60s
The 1960s ushered in a youthful energy with the rise of the "Swinging Sixties" and the "Mod" movement. Think clean lines, bold shapes, and a vibrant color palette.
Key Features
- Thick Black Eyeliner: The signature look of the 60s was a dramatic, thick black eyeliner, often applied with a cat-eye flick. This defined the eyes, adding a touch of intensity and playfulness.
- False Lashes: Long, full lashes were essential for achieving the wide-eyed "doll" look.
- Pale Skin: A flawless, porcelain complexion was sought after, achieved with foundation and powder.
- Subtle Blush: A light touch of pink or peach blush was applied to the apples of the cheeks for a natural flush.
- Neutral Lips: While bold colors were popular for eyes, lips usually stayed neutral with a pale pink or nude lipstick.
How to Recreate the Look
Start with a smooth canvas: Apply a light, hydrating foundation and concealer to achieve a flawless, pale base.
Define your eyes: Use a black liquid eyeliner to create a thick line along your upper lash line, extending it out into a classic cat-eye flick.
Amplify your lashes: Apply a few coats of volumizing mascara, or opt for false lashes for maximum impact.
Add a touch of color: Apply a light peach or pink blush to the apples of your cheeks for a natural flush.
Complete with a neutral lip: Finish the look with a pale pink or nude lipstick.
The Glamorous Glow of the 70s
The 1970s brought about a more relaxed and bohemian vibe, with a focus on natural beauty and a touch of extravagance. Think disco balls, shimmering shadows, and a touch of grunge.
Key Features
- Smoky Eyes: The smoky eye was a staple of the 70s, with soft, blended shadows creating a dramatic, yet sophisticated effect.
- Shimmering Shadows: Metallic and iridescent eyeshadows were a popular choice for adding a touch of glamour and reflecting the disco lights.
- Contouring: Contouring was a key technique for creating dimension and highlighting facial features.
- Bold Lips: The 70s saw a resurgence in bold lip colors, from fiery reds to deep burgundy hues.
How to Recreate the Look
Prep your skin: Apply a creamy foundation and concealer to create a smooth and even base.
Create a smoky eye: Use a blend of neutral browns, grays, or black eyeshadows to create a smoky effect on your eyelids. Blend upwards towards the crease, creating a soft and diffused gradient.
Add a touch of shimmer: Apply a metallic or iridescent eyeshadow to the center of your eyelids for added sparkle.
Contour your cheekbones: Use a bronzer to define your cheekbones and create a sculpted look.
Complete with a bold lip: Finish the look with a bold red, burgundy, or berry-toned lipstick.
The Evolution of Retro Makeup
Retro makeup has evolved throughout the decades, with each decade bringing its own unique style, but the core principles of enhancing natural beauty and experimenting with color and textures remain constant.
1950s: The "New Look"
The 1950s, with its emphasis on feminine elegance, featured a dramatic, sculpted look with a focus on bold brows, red lips, and a sculpted face.
1980s: The '80s Power Look
The 80s was all about bold color, bright eyeshadow, and a dramatic, sculpted look. Think neon colors, power brows, and a heavy application of blush.
1990s: Grunge Chic
The 90s saw a rebellion against the excessive makeup trends of the 80s, embracing a minimalist and grunge-inspired aesthetic with a focus on natural beauty.
Tips for Creating Retro Style Makeup
Start with a good skincare routine: A hydrated and healthy complexion is the key to creating any makeup look.
Experiment with colors: Don't be afraid to experiment with different shades and textures to find what works best for you.
Keep it simple: Start with a few key products and gradually build up your look.
Practice makes perfect: The more you practice, the more confident you will become with your retro makeup skills.
FAQ
What are the must-have products for creating retro makeup?
Some must-have products for creating retro makeup include a creamy foundation, concealer, liquid eyeliner, eyeshadow palettes, and bold lipsticks.
How can I modernize a retro look?
You can modernize a retro look by tweaking the intensity of the makeup, using more subtle colors, and focusing on a more natural finish.
Can I wear retro makeup for everyday wear?
Yes, you can wear retro makeup for everyday wear by adjusting the intensity of the look and choosing colors that complement your skin tone.
Conclusion
Retro makeup offers a fun and creative way to express your personal style. By embracing the bold colors, playful textures, and timeless techniques of the 60s and 70s, you can achieve a look that is both classic and contemporary. Remember, the key to mastering retro makeup is to experiment and find what works best for you. So, get creative, have fun, and channel your inner retro queen!
Call to Action: Want to learn more about specific retro makeup techniques? Check out our blog post on "Creating the Perfect 60s Twiggy Eye Look" for a step-by-step guide.
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