80s Eye Makeup Tutorial: Iconic Looks Recreated

The 80s were a decade of bold fashion and even bolder makeup trends. From neon colors to dramatic eyeliner, 80s eye makeup was all about making a statement. Whether you were channeling a rockstar, a pop icon, or a glamorous movie star, the options were endless. Today, we're taking a trip back in time to recreate some of the most iconic 80s eye makeup looks. From the smoky eye to the power brow, let's dive into the decade that dared to be different!

The History of 80s Eye Makeup

The 1980s saw a surge in experimentation with makeup. The rise of music icons like Madonna, Cyndi Lauper, and Whitney Houston, as well as the influence of movies like “Flashdance” and “Purple Rain,” fueled the trend of bold, colorful, and dramatic looks.

This era saw the popularization of:

Bold Colors: Bright blues, greens, purples, and pinks were popular across eyeshadow palettes, creating a vibrant and energetic aesthetic.
Dramatic Eyeliner: Thick, black liquid eyeliner was a staple, often used to create winged, cat-eye, or graphic shapes.
False Lashes: Voluminous lashes were a must-have for a dramatic and glamorous look.
Power Brows: Bold, defined eyebrows were a significant feature, often drawn with a pencil or powder.

These elements combined to create a unique blend of rebelliousness, glamour, and creativity.

80s Eye Makeup Trends

While the trend of bold color reigned supreme, there were many specific looks that captured the spirit of the decade:

1. The Smoky Eye

This classic look, popularized by the power ballad singers of the era, involves blending dark eyeshadow shades like black, grey, or brown to create a smoky effect.

How to recreate the smoky eye:

Start with an eyeshadow primer.
Apply a dark eyeshadow shade to the crease.
Blend the eyeshadow outwards and upwards towards the brow bone.
Use a lighter shade on the inner corner and center of the eyelid.
Apply black liquid eyeliner to the upper lash line and wing it out.
Finish with several coats of mascara.

2. The Power Brow

Bold, defined eyebrows were a major statement in the 80s. The goal was to create a strong, sculpted look.

How to recreate the power brow:

Start with a brow pencil or powder in a shade close to your natural hair color.
Use short, light strokes to fill in any gaps and create a defined shape.
Use a spoolie brush to blend the product and create a natural finish.
Set the eyebrows with a clear brow gel.

3. The Colorful Eyeshadow

Bright, bold colors were a hallmark of the 80s. Think neon pinks, blues, and greens, often paired with black eyeliner for a striking contrast.

How to recreate the colorful eyeshadow look:

Start with a base of primer.
Apply a bold eyeshadow color to the entire eyelid.
Blend the color outwards and upwards towards the brow bone.
Use a light eyeshadow shade on the inner corner and center of the eyelid.
Apply black liquid eyeliner to the upper lash line.
Finish with several coats of mascara.

4. The Graphic Liner

Graphic eyeliner looks were a big trend in the 80s, with elaborate shapes and patterns becoming popular.

How to recreate the graphic liner look:

Start with a sharp liquid eyeliner.
Create a bold, winged shape with the eyeliner.
Experiment with adding additional lines or patterns.
You can use stencils to help create intricate designs.

80s Eye Makeup Tips

Use high-quality makeup: The bold colors and dramatic looks of the 80s demand vibrant pigment and long-lasting formula.
Don't be afraid to experiment: The 80s were all about pushing boundaries and expressing individuality.
Embrace the power of blending: Even with bold colors, blending helps create a cohesive and polished look.
Focus on one feature: If you're going bold with your eyes, opt for a more neutral lip color.
Don't forget your skin: A dewy or matte base provides the perfect canvas for your 80s eye makeup.

80s Eye Makeup Products

There are a wide range of products available today that can help you achieve the iconic looks of the 80s.

Eyeshadow Palette: Look for palettes with bold colors and shimmery finishes.
Liquid Eyeliner: Choose a black eyeliner with a fine tip for precision.
False Lashes: Try individual lashes for a more natural look or strip lashes for a dramatic effect.
Brow Pencil or Powder: Choose a shade that matches your natural brow color.
Eyeshadow Primer: This helps the eyeshadow last longer and prevents creasing.

FAQs

Q: Can I wear 80s eye makeup today?
A: Absolutely! While some elements may seem bold or over-the-top, you can adapt these looks to fit your style and preferences.
Q: Is it necessary to use all the products mentioned for each look?
A: Not at all! Try experimenting with different products and techniques to find what works best for you.
Q: What are some good modern-day examples of 80s-inspired eye makeup?
A: Many modern makeup looks draw inspiration from the 80s, with many celebrities and makeup artists incorporating elements like bold colors and graphic eyeliner.

Conclusion

80s eye makeup was a celebration of bold, colorful, and dramatic beauty. From the iconic smoky eye to the powerful brow, there are many ways to recreate these legendary looks today. By experimenting with different products and techniques, you can channel the spirit of the 80s and create a look that's both classic and modern.

Ready to embrace the bold colors and dramatic features of 80s eye makeup? Get inspired and start experimenting with your own unique look! And remember, the most important thing is to have fun and express your own personal style.

Video 1980's hair & makeup tutorial