Disco 70s Makeup Trends: Bold Looks & How To

Readers, have you ever wondered about the bold and glamorous makeup looks of the disco era? The 70s were a time of experimentation and self-expression, and this was reflected in the makeup trends that emerged. From shimmery eyeshadow to dramatic eyeliner, disco makeup was all about making a statement and turning heads.

We've delved into the world of 70s disco makeup and discovered some of the key trends and techniques that defined this iconic era. We'll explore the signature looks, essential products, and expert tips to help you recreate the glamour of the disco era.

The Rise of Disco Makeup

The rise of disco culture in the 1970s had a profound impact on makeup trends. The vibrant atmosphere of disco clubs and the desire for a more dramatic and expressive look fueled the popularity of bold and colorful makeup.

Women embraced the freedom to express themselves through their makeup, experimenting with different colors, textures, and techniques. From the glitzy nightclubs to the streets, disco makeup became synonymous with fun, confidence, and a touch of rebelliousness.

Key Trends: Defining the Disco Makeup Look

Shimmery Eyeshadow

Shimmery eyeshadow was a staple of the disco era. The focus was on creating a glamorous and eye-catching look with shimmering shades of gold, silver, bronze, and copper. The use of iridescent pigments created a captivating effect that reflected the flashing lights of the disco clubs.

Applying shimmery eyeshadow was all about creating a bold and dramatic look. Women used their fingertips or brushes to apply the eyeshadow over their entire eyelid, blending it out towards the brow bone.

Many used a wet brush for a more intense color payoff and to make the shimmer really pop. They also layered different shades to achieve a multidimensional effect, adding depth and dimension to their eyes.

Bold Eyeliner

Bold eyeliner was another defining element of disco makeup. The emphasis was on creating a dramatic and elongated eye shape that accentuated their eyes.

Thick, black eyeliner was applied along the upper lash line, extending outwards into a wing shape. Women also used a thin line of eyeliner along the lower lash line to create a sultry and eye-catching look.

The use of liquid eyeliner allowed for precise application and created a dramatic, sharp line that was perfect for the bold and expressive makeup of the disco era.

Dramatic Lashes

Dramatic lashes were considered essential for achieving the ultimate disco makeup look. The aim was to create a captivating and alluring effect by adding volume and length to their lashes.

Women used several coats of mascara to create dramatic and voluminous lashes. Some even used false eyelashes to amplify their lash volume and achieve a more dramatic and glamorous look.

To create a more defined and dramatic lash look, women used an eyelash curler to lift and curl their lashes before applying mascara.

Blush and Contour

Blush and contour were essential for defining the face and adding a natural glow to the skin. The focus was on creating a healthy flush and emphasizing the cheekbones.

Women used warm, peachy shades of blush to add a natural flush to their cheeks. They applied blush on the apples of their cheeks and blended it outwards towards their temples.

Contouring was also a popular technique for defining the cheekbones and sculpting the face. Women used bronzer to create a shadow effect along their cheekbones, jawline, and temples, emphasizing their facial structure.

Bold Lips

Bold lips were a key feature of disco makeup, allowing women to make a statement with their lips. The focus was on creating a bold and eye-catching pout that complemented their overall look.

Women experimented with a variety of bold colors, including reds, oranges, pinks, and even purples. They opted for high-impact shades that added a touch of drama and glamour to their looks.

To achieve a bold lip look, they used a lip liner to outline their lips and prevent the lipstick from bleeding. They then applied lipstick with a brush for precise application and a smooth, even finish.

Highlighter

Highlighting was important for achieving a luminous and radiant complexion characteristic of disco makeup. The focus was on creating a healthy glow and emphasizing key facial features.

Women used a highlighter on the high points of their face, including their cheekbones, brow bones, and cupid's bow. They applied highlighter using a brush or fingertips, blending it seamlessly into their skin.

Creamy highlighters were often used to achieve a more intense and radiant glow. They were blended into the skin with their fingertips or a sponge for a natural and luminous finish.

Essential Makeup Products for a 70s Disco Look

To recreate the glamorous and bold looks of the disco era, you'll need a few essential makeup products. From shimmering eyeshadows to bold lipsticks, here are some must-haves for achieving that iconic disco look:

Shimmery Eyeshadow Palette: Choose a palette with a range of shimmering shades, including gold, silver, bronze, and copper. You can find these in both cream and powder formulas.
Bold Eyeliner: Opt for a liquid eyeliner for precise application and a dramatic finish. Black is the classic go-to, but you can also experiment with other colors like brown or blue.
Mascara: Choose a volumizing mascara to create dramatic and eye-catching lashes. Look for mascaras with a jet-black formula for a bold and defined look.
False Eyelashes: For extra drama, use false eyelashes to add volume and length to your lashes. Choose a style that complements your eye shape and desired look.
Blush: Opt for a warm, peachy shade of blush to add a natural flush to your cheeks. Cream or powder blush formulas work well for a natural-looking glow
Bronzer: Use a matte bronzer to define your cheekbones, jawline, and temples. Choose a shade that complements your skin tone.
Bold Lipstick: Explore various shades of bold lipstick, including reds, oranges, pinks, or purples. A lipstick with a creamy or matte finish will provide a long-lasting and vibrant look.
Highlighter: Opt for a cream or powder highlighter to create a luminous and radiant complexion. Choose a shade that complements your skin tone and desired level of glow.

Tips for Achieving a Flawless 70s Disco Makeup Look

Creating a flawless 70s disco makeup look requires understanding a few essential tips and techniques. Here are some valuable insights for recreating the glamour of the disco era:

Start with a Smooth Base: Prepare your skin with a moisturizer and a primer to create a smooth and even canvas for your makeup. This will help your makeup last longer and prevent it from creasing.
Apply Foundation Evenly: Use a foundation that matches your skin tone and apply it evenly across your face using a brush or sponge. Ensure you blend the foundation around your jawline and hairline for a seamless finish.
Set Your Makeup: After applying your foundation and other makeup products, use a setting powder to set your makeup in place. This will prevent it from smudging or fading throughout the day or night.
Don't Be Afraid of Color: Embrace bold and vibrant colors for your eyeshadow, blush, and lipstick. The key is to blend them out seamlessly for a natural-looking finish.
Experiment with Textures: Play with different textures, such as shimmery eyeshadows, matte lipsticks, and creamy blushes. Mixing and matching textures can add depth and dimension to your look.
Practice Makes Perfect: Creating a disco makeup look involves techniques that may take practice. Start slowly and experiment with different products and techniques to find what works best for you.

Variations on the Disco Makeup Look

The disco makeup look can be adapted to suit different preferences and occasions. Here are some variations you can consider:

Daytime Disco: For a more subtle daytime version, opt for a lighter hand with eyeshadow and eyeliner. Stick with neutral shades for eyeshadow and a sheer lip color.
Glam Rock: Embrace a more edgy and rock-inspired vibe with smoky eyeshadow and metallic lips. Use dark shades of eyeshadow and a bold, smoky eye look.
Modern Disco: Update the disco look with modern touches. Use metallic eyeshadows and liquid lipsticks in bold shades. Add a touch of glitter for a modern twist.

The Lasting Impact of Disco Makeup

The impact of disco makeup on fashion and beauty is undeniable. The bold and expressive looks of the 70s continue to inspire makeup trends today.

Modern makeup artists often draw inspiration from the iconic looks of the disco era, incorporating elements like bold eyeliner, shimmery eyeshadow, and dramatic lashes into contemporary makeup styles.

The disco makeup era taught women the power of self-expression through makeup, embracing bold colors, dramatic textures, and a playful approach to beauty.

FAQ's

What is the best way to achieve a shimmering eyeshadow look?

For a shimmering eyeshadow look, start with a primer to create a smooth canvas. Use a brush to apply the shimmering eyeshadow over your entire eyelid, blending it up towards the brow bone. You can use a wet brush for a more intense color payoff and a greater shimmer effect.

How can I create dramatic lashes for a disco look?

For dramatic lashes, apply several coats of volumizing mascara to your lashes. Consider using an eyelash curler to lift and curl your lashes before applying mascara for a more defined look. If you want even more volume and length, try using false eyelashes.

What are some must-have products for a 70s disco makeup look?

Some must-have products for a 70s disco makeup look include shimmering eyeshadow, a bold eyeliner, volumizing mascara, false eyelashes, blush, bronzer, bold lipstick, and highlighter.

Conclusion

The disco makeup trends of the 70s were all about making a statement and embracing self-expression. By incorporating bold colors, shimmery textures, and dramatic techniques, women created captivating looks that reflected the era's vibrant atmosphere. So, whether you're looking to step back in time or simply add a touch of disco glamour to your modern look, the iconic trends of the disco era can provide endless inspiration.

To learn more about makeup trends from different eras, check out our other blog posts on makeup history and fashion. You'll find a wealth of information and tips to help you explore the world of makeup and discover your own style.

Video Historically Accurate: 1970s DISCO Makeup Tutorial