1970s Disco Makeup Looks: Glam & Glitter Guide

Readers, have you ever wondered how to recreate those iconic 1970s disco makeup looks? The era of Studio 54, bell bottoms, and platform shoes was a time of bold, glamorous, and sometimes outrageous makeup. It was all about making a statement, and what better way to do that than with shimmering eyeshadow, dramatic eyeliner, and a touch of glitter?

I've been researching and analyzing 1970s disco makeup looks for years, and I'm here to share my expertise with you. Whether you're looking for a subtle nod to the era or a full-on disco queen transformation, this ultimate guide has everything you need.

The Essence of 1970s Disco Makeup

1970s disco makeup was all about embracing individuality and expressing yourself through bold colors and dramatic effects. The era was marked by a celebration of all things glamorous and vibrant, and this was reflected in the makeup trends.

Think shimmering eyeshadows, dramatic eyeliner, and a touch of glitter – all designed to create an unforgettable look that would stand out on the dance floor. The key was to create a look that was both glamorous and fun, reflecting the spirit of the era.

Key Elements of 1970s Disco Makeup

Here are some essential elements that defined the iconic 1970s disco makeup look:

Bold Eyeshadow: Shimmering, metallic, and colorful eyeshadows were a staple of the era. Think emerald green, deep blue, gold, bronze, and silver. The goal was to create a dramatic, eye-catching look that would shine under the disco ball.
Dramatic Eyeliner: Thick, winged eyeliner was a defining feature of 1970s disco makeup. The goal was to create a dramatic, feline eye that would accentuate the eyes and add an element of mystique.
Glitter: Glitter was everywhere in the 1970s, and makeup was no exception. From shimmering eyeshadows to glittery eyeliner to a sprinkle of glitter on the cheekbones, glitter was a crucial ingredient for creating that disco-inspired sparkle.
Blush: Blush was applied generously to the cheeks to create a healthy, flushed look. Popular colors included peaches, corals, and pinks.
Lips: Lips were often kept bold and vibrant, with shades of red, pink, and coral being popular choices. Glossy lips were also a common trend, adding a touch of shine and glamour.

Inspiration from the Stars

Many iconic figures of the era helped shape the 1970s disco makeup trend, with their bold styles influencing the looks of countless others. Some of the most notable influences include:

Donna Summer: The "Queen of Disco" was known for her signature smoky eyes and shimmering eyeshadows.
Diana Ross: Ross's dramatic eyeliner and bold lips were a staple of her glamorous look.
Cher: Known for her dramatic and colorful makeup looks, Cher was a fashion icon who embraced bold colors and creative makeup techniques.

Recreate the Look: 1970s Disco Makeup Tutorial

Now that you've got a glimpse into the spirit and key elements of 1970s disco makeup, let's dive into a step-by-step tutorial that will help you recreate this iconic look:

Step 1: Prep Your Skin

Start by prepping your skin with a good moisturizer and primer. This will help your makeup go on smoothly and last throughout the night.

Choose a primer that's suitable for your skin type, and apply it evenly to your face. This step is especially important for a disco look, as you'll be using glitter and heavier makeup that needs a good base to stay put.

Step 2: Foundation and Concealer

Apply your foundation evenly all over your face, blending it carefully along your jawline and hairline. Use a brush or a beauty blender to achieve a seamless finish.

After applying your foundation, use concealer to cover up any blemishes or dark circles. Choose a concealer that matches your skin tone and blend it carefully around the eyes and any trouble spots.

Step 3: Eyeshadow

This is where the real fun begins! Apply a shimmery eyeshadow to your entire eyelid, going all the way up to the crease. Choose a color that complements your eye color and skin tone. For example, if you have green eyes, try a bronze or copper eyeshadow.

If you prefer a more dramatic look, apply a darker eyeshadow to the crease of your eyelid. This will add depth and definition to your eyes. Use a blending brush to soften the edges and create a smooth, seamless transition between the two colors.

Step 4: Eyeliner

Apply a thick, winged eyeliner to your upper lash line. Start by creating a thin line along your lash line, and then extend it out towards the outer corner of your eye, creating a wing. Don't be afraid to go bold with your eyeliner, as 1970s disco looks are all about making a statement!

If you're feeling really adventurous, apply a thin line of eyeliner to your lower lash line as well. This will add an extra touch of drama to your look.

Step 5: Glitter

Add a touch of glitter to your eyelids or cheekbones. You can use loose glitter, glitter glue, or a glitter eyeshadow. Apply a small amount of glitter to your eyelids, focusing on the center of the eyelid. This will create a shimmering, disco-inspired look.

Add a few strategically placed dots of glitter to your cheekbones for an extra touch of sparkle.

Step 6: Blush

Apply blush to the apples of your cheeks. Choose a peach, coral, or pink shade and apply it with a brush or beauty blender. Blend the blush outwards towards your temples to create a natural, flushed look.

Step 7: Lips

Apply a bold lipstick to your lips. Red, pink, and coral shades were popular choices in the 1970s. You can also add a touch of gloss for extra shine.

Step 8: Mascara

Finish off your look by applying a couple of coats of mascara to your lashes. This will give your eyes a dramatic and defined look.

1970s Disco Makeup: A Touch of History

The 1970s was a period of significant social and cultural upheaval, and these changes were reflected in the fashion and beauty trends of the era. The rise of disco music and the emergence of a new generation of young people demanding freedom and self-expression led to a shift away from the more conservative makeup styles of the 1960s.

The advent of new makeup products and techniques, coupled with the influence of fashion icons like Donna Summer, Diana Ross, and Cher, helped shape the 1970s disco makeup look. These trends were amplified by the emergence of magazines and television shows that showcased the latest fashion and beauty trends, making them accessible to a wider audience.

1970s Disco Makeup Essentials

If you're ready to embrace the glamorous world of 1970s disco makeup, you'll need to stock your beauty kit with a few essential products.

Eyeshadow Palette

A versatile eyeshadow palette with a variety of shimmering, metallic, and colorful shades is essential for creating a 1970s disco makeup look. Look for palettes that include shades like emerald green, deep blue, gold, bronze, and silver. You should also include a few neutral shades, such as beige and brown, for blending and creating depth.

Eyeliner

A black or brown liquid eyeliner is a must-have for creating dramatic wings. Opt for a felt-tip liner for precise application and a bold look. You may also want to consider a gel liner for a more intense color payoff and longevity.

Glitter

Glitter is a key component of any 1970s disco makeup look. You can use loose glitter, glitter glue, or glitter eyeshadow. Choose a fine-textured glitter for a subtle sparkle, or opt for chunky glitter for a more dramatic effect.

Mascara

A volumizing mascara will help you achieve the dramatic, lash-enhancing look of the 1970s. Look for a mascara that lifts, separates, and adds volume to your lashes, making them appear longer and thicker. And, don't forget, a lash curler is a great tool for adding definition and lift to your lashes.

Blush

A peach, coral, or pink blush will add a touch of color and warmth to your cheeks. Choose a blush that has a creamy texture for easy application and blending.

Lipstick

A bold lipstick is essential for a 1970s disco makeup look. Choose a red, pink, or coral shade that complements your skin tone. Consider a creamy or matte lipstick for a long-lasting finish. You may also want to add a touch of gloss for extra shine and glamour.

1970s Disco Makeup: Beyond the Basics

Once you've mastered the basics of 1970s disco makeup, you can experiment with different techniques and variations to create unique and exciting looks. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

Colored Eyeliner

Instead of using black or brown eyeliner, try a colorful eyeliner in shades like blue, green, or gold. This will create a more dramatic and eye-catching look.

Double Winged Eyeliner

Instead of just applying eyeliner on the upper lash line, try creating a double wing by applying liner on the lower lash line as well. This will add an extra touch of drama and sophistication to your look.

Colored Mascara

For a more daring look, try using colored mascara, such as blue, green, or purple. This will create a more vibrant and playful effect.

Glitter Lips

For a truly statement-making look, try applying glitter to your lips. You can use a clear gloss and mix in your favorite glitter, or use a glitter lipstick. Be sure to apply a lip liner to define your lips and prevent the glitter from bleeding.

FAQs

How do I make my 1970s disco makeup look last longer?

To make your 1970s disco makeup last longer, start with a good primer. This will create a smooth base for your makeup and help it stay put for hours. Be sure to set your makeup with a setting spray to lock in the look. You should also avoid touching your face throughout the day, as this can cause your makeup to smudge or wear off.

What are some good 1970s disco makeup trends to avoid?

While 1970s disco makeup was all about embracing bold and dramatic looks, there were some trends that didn't age so well. Avoid using too much foundation, as this can create a heavy, mask-like effect. Also, steer clear of extremely heavy eyeshadow or eyeliner, as this can overwhelm your features. Keep in mind that the goal is to create a glamorous and flattering look, not to overdo it.

How can I make my 1970s disco makeup look more modern?

To make your 1970s disco makeup look more modern, try using a lighter hand with the eyeshadow and eyeliner. Focus on blending the eyeshadow seamlessly to create a softer and more natural look. You can also experiment with different colors and textures to create a unique and contemporary twist on this iconic look.

Conclusion

So, there you have it, readers – a complete guide to recreating those iconic 1970s disco makeup looks. With a little practice and a touch of confidence, you can embrace the spirit of the era and channel your inner disco queen. And don't forget to check out our other articles for more fashion and beauty tips from the past and present!

Video Historically Accurate: 1970s DISCO Makeup Tutorial