How can you recreate those nostalgic retro makeup looks from the 70s, 80s, and 90s? Whether you’re looking to channel your inner disco queen or rock out like a grunge icon, this guide will walk you through the essentials for each decade. Let’s get started!

The 1970s: Boho Glam and Disco Delight

The 1970s were all about self-expression, whether through fashion or makeup. This decade saw the rise of disco and bohemian styles, which brought a mix of glam, glitter, and earthy tones.

Key Elements of 70s Makeup

1. Eyes

   • Bold eye makeup is a signature of the 70s look. Think bright colors, heavy eyeliner, and plenty of shimmer. You should opt for eyeshadows in vibrant hues like turquoise, gold, and purple.
   • A popular trend was the “floating crease” look; blend a darker shade along the crease and a lighter color on your eyelid.

2. Lips

   • For lips, stick with a softer palette to balance the boldness of the eyes. Creamy beige, soft pinks, and peachy nudes were popular. You may also experiment with a lip gloss for that glossy finish.

3. Cheeks

   • When it comes to blush, go for a warm, sun-kissed look. A peach or coral blush applied on the apples of your cheeks will give you that refreshing glow.

4. Skin

   • Skin in the 70s was often glowing and dewy. Use a lightweight foundation to even out your skin tone while still letting your natural skin shine through.

Products to Use

Product Type	Recommendations
Eyeshadow Palette	Bright, shimmery options with bold colors
Eyeliner	Liquid or gel for sharp lines
Lipstick	Creamy formulas in nude or soft pink
Blush	Coral or peach tones
Foundation	Lightweight, dewy finish

The 1980s: Bold, Bright, and Exuberant

If the 70s focused on individuality, the 80s leaned into big statements. This decade was all about vibrant colors, daring eye makeup, and dramatic looks, mirroring the flamboyant fashion of the time.

Key Elements of 80s Makeup

1. Eyes

   • Bold and colorful eyeshadow was the star of the show. Use neon shades like electric blue, hot pink, and vibrant purple. Don’t shy away from layering colors or creating graphic shapes.
   • Pair the eyeshadow with thick mascara for that dramatic, full lash effect. Consider using false eyelashes for extra volume.

2. Lips

   • Bold lips were a must-have. Bright red, fuchsia, and even deep burgundy became staples. Matte lipsticks worked great for a fierce look, but gloss added a fun, youthful twist.

3. Cheeks

   • Blush was often applied liberally to create a striking pop of color. Bright pink or fuchsia shades applied generously on the cheeks will channel that fun loving 80s spirit.

4. Skin

   • Skin in the 80s could be matte or luminous, depending on your vibe. Use a medium-coverage foundation to perfect your complexion, and finish with a hint of highlighter for some glow.

Products to Use

Product Type	Recommendations
Eyeshadow Palette	Bright neon colors and bold shades
Eyeliner	Bright colors or liquid for dramatic effects
Lipstick	Matte or glossy in vibrant hues
Blush	Bright pinks or fuchsias
Foundation	Medium coverage with slight matte or luminous finish

The 1990s: Grunge and Glam

The 90s brought a wave of diverse aesthetics—from the edgy grunge look to the glamorous supermodel vibe. This blend of styles allows you to pick and choose aspects based on your personal style.

Key Elements of 90s Makeup

1. Eyes

   • The 90s saw the rise of the smoky eye, often featuring soft browns, grays, and deep plum colors. You can achieve this by blending a dark shadow across your eyelid and using a lighter shade in the inner corners.
   • Eyeliner was essential, often applied in dark colors along the waterline for added drama.

2. Lips

   • Lips стали более темными, часто в цветах, таких как бургундия или коричневый. Линия для губ в согласии с помадой была популярной, чтобы подчеркнуть формы губ.

3. Cheeks

   • The blush in the 90s was typically subtle, often using a soft peach or soft pink. You barely want to notice it, just enough to have a hint of color on the cheeks.

4. Skin

   • The original supermodel look ruled the 90s, showcasing a flawless base. Use a full-coverage foundation for a polished appearance. A little bit of highlighter can go a long way for that fresh, dewy look.

Products to Use

Product Type	Recommendations
Eyeshadow Palette	Soft and smoky shades like browns and grays
Eyeliner	Dark colors for a smoky effect
Lipstick	Deep burgundy or brown
Blush	Soft peach or pink shades
Foundation	Full coverage for a matte finish

Tips for All Decades

Regardless of which decade you choose to recreate, a few tips apply universally:

1. Skin Prep is Key

No matter the look, prepping your skin is essential. Cleanse, moisturize, and prime your skin for the best canvas possible. Preparing your skin helps makeup adhere better and last longer, ensuring you look fabulous all day.

2. Tools of the Trade

Investing in high-quality brushes and tools will make a significant difference in your application. Blending sponges, eyeshadow brushes, and foundation brushes can elevate your retro look significantly.

3. Practice Makes Perfect

Don’t be discouraged if you don’t nail it the first time! Makeup is an art, and like any art form, it requires practice. Spend time experimenting with different techniques and products to find what works best for you.

4. Embrace Your Individuality

While it’s great to recreate looks from the past, don’t hesitate to incorporate your personal flair. Feel free to mix elements from different decades, or add a modern twist to an old favorite.

5. Have Fun!

Makeup is about self-expression and creativity. Enjoy the process, and don’t be afraid to try new things. Retro looks can be glamorous, funky, or edgy; let your personality shine through!

Conclusion

Recreating retro makeup looks from the 70s, 80s, and 90s can be a fun and rewarding experience. With the right products, techniques, and a bit of practice, you can channel the charm and vibrancy of these iconic decades. Remember, makeup is all about creativity, so take this information and put your unique spin on it. Each decade has its charm, so pick what resonates with you and have fun!