80s Makeup Tutorial: Real Looks for Modern Faces

80s Makeup Tutorial: Real Looks for Modern Faces

The 80s were a vibrant era of big hair, bold fashion, and even bolder makeup. While some trends from that decade have thankfully faded away, others are experiencing a resurgence, bringing a fresh twist to modern beauty looks. This article will delve into the world of 80s makeup, offering a practical guide to recreate iconic looks for today's faces. We'll explore the key elements of 80s makeup, showcasing its evolution and how to adapt it to your unique style.

The Evolution of 80s Makeup

The 80s makeup scene was a powerhouse of innovation. From the power of power ballads and Madonna's rise to fame to the rise of the supermodel and the liberation of women, the 80s were a time of expression and self-discovery. The key focus was on colour, boldness, and highlighting individual features.

Some of the most notable trends included:

Bright eyeshadows: Vivid blues, purples, greens, and even neon shades were staples.
Heavy eyeliner: Dramatic, thick eyeliner lines, often winged for an extra dose of glam.
Bold blush: Ranging from bright pink to peaches, blush was applied generously on the apples of the cheeks.
Sculpted contouring: Contouring was a key technique to define cheekbones and create a dramatic, sculpted face.
Red lipstick: A classic staple for a bold and powerful look.

Modernizing 80s Makeup Looks

While the 80s trends were iconic, they can be adapted to suit modern tastes. Here are some key tips for modernizing 80s makeup:

Choose a focus: Instead of applying everything at once, pick one or two signature elements to recreate.
Embrace softer shades: While vibrant colors are still relevant, consider opting for softer pastel shades for a more modern feel.
Focus on precision: Modern techniques prioritize precision and clean lines. This means paying close attention to blending and using liner sparingly.
Embrace natural skin: Instead of caking on foundation, opt for a lighter, sheer formula. This emphasizes the natural beauty of your skin while still allowing for dramatic eye makeup.
Prioritize your eyebrows: 80s eyebrows were often thin and arched. Modern trends favor thicker, natural-looking brows, so focus on defining and enhancing those features rather than dramatically altering them.

Mastering the 80s Makeup Essentials

Now that we've covered some fundamental principles for modernizing 80s makeup, let's delve into the specific techniques and products that will help you recreate iconic looks.

1. The 80s Eyeshadow Look

The iconic 80s eyeshadow look is all about vibrant colors and bold application. Here's a step-by-step guide:

Prep your lids: Start with an eyeshadow primer to create a smooth, long-lasting base.
Choose your colors: Select two or three complementary shades. For a classic look, opt for a light shimmery shade for the base, a medium matte shade for the crease, and a vibrant, contrasting color for the lid.
Apply a transitional shade: Using a fluffy brush, blend a matte, neutral transitional shade (like brown or taupe) into the crease. This will create depth and define the eye shape.
Layer on the color: Apply your primary color on your lids, working from the inner corner outwards. Use a fluffy brush for a soft, blended effect or a flat brush for a more defined look.
Add a touch of shimmer: Apply a shimmery shade to the center of your lid for a glamorous touch.
Blend, blend, blend: Use a clean brush to blend all the colors together, ensuring a seamless transition from one shade to the next.

2. The 80s Eyeliner Look

Bold eyeliner is a key element of 80s makeup. Here's how to recreate it:

Choose your weapon: Liquid liner is ideal for sharp lines but can be tricky for beginners. Gel liner offers a good alternative.
Get the perfect wing: Start with a thin line at the lash line. Extend the line outwards, creating an angled wing that follows your eye's natural shape.
Emphasize the eyes: Apply a thin line along the lower lash line to enhance the depth of the eye.
Don't forget the lashes: Amplify the impact of your look with several coats of voluminous mascara.

3. The 80s Blush Look

80s blush was all about bold color and high cheekbones. Here's how to get the look:

Choose your shade: Pink, peach, and coral were popular choices for 80s blush. Select a shade that complements your skin tone.
Apply with a brush: Use a fluffy blush brush to apply the color high on the cheekbones, moving outwards towards the temples.
Blend for a natural finish: Blend the color gently towards your hairline. This creates a natural, flushed look.

4. Sculpting and Highlighting

Sculpting and highlighting were essential elements of 80s makeup. Here's how to achieve a modern take:

Contouring: Use a matte bronzer to create definition around the cheekbones, jawline, and forehead. Blend seamlessly with a brush to avoid harsh lines.
Highlighting: Apply a shimmery highlighter to the brow bone, cheekbones, and the cupid's bow to emphasize these areas.

FAQs About 80s Makeup

1. Can I wear 80s makeup every day?

Not necessarily. While some elements like bold eyeliner and colorful eyeshadow can be adapted for daily wear, it's important to keep the overall look balanced and appropriate for your chosen occasion.

2. Is 80s makeup only for young people?

No! 80s makeup can be adapted to work on any skin type or age group. The key is to choose the right shades and techniques for your individual features.

3. What are the most popular 80s makeup trends today?

Bold eyeliner, eyeshadow with a focus on color, and sculpted cheekbones are some of the key 80s trends experiencing a resurgence in popularity.

Conclusion

Mastering the art of 80s makeup is a fun way to experiment with bold colors and vintage vibes. Remember to adapt these trends to your individual style and keep the overall look balanced. The key is to have fun, experiment, and express yourself through the transformative power of makeup.

Call to action: Ready to embrace the 80s? Gather your favorite colorful eyeshadows, bold eyeliner, and a vibrant blush, and get ready to recreate iconic 80s looks with a modern twist!

Video 80s Makeup