60s 70s Makeup Looks: Retro Trends For Modern Faces

60s 70s Makeup Looks: Retro Trends For Modern Faces

Meta Description: Step back in time and rediscover the iconic makeup trends of the 60s and 70s! From Twiggy's bold lashes to disco-era shimmer, learn how to recreate these retro looks for a modern twist.

The 1960s and 1970s were eras of bold experimentation in fashion, and makeup was no exception. From the Twiggy-inspired mod looks of the 60s to the disco-era glam of the 70s, these decades offered a unique blend of playful color, dramatic eyeliner, and a touch of rebellion. These trends are experiencing a major revival, with celebrities and makeup artists embracing the timeless beauty of retro styles. This article explores the key elements of 60s and 70s makeup, guiding you through the techniques and products to recreate these iconic looks for a modern twist.

The Mod Look: 60s Makeup Trends

The 1960s were all about embracing youth, innocence, and a clean, simple aesthetic. Minimalism reigned supreme, and the focus was on highlighting natural features with clean lines and bold details.

Eyes: The "Twiggy" Look

Bold Eyeliner: The iconic "Twiggy" look demanded thick, dramatic eyeliner, emphasizing the upper lash line. Use a black liquid liner for a precise application, or a charcoal pencil for softer definition.
False Lashes: Long, thick false lashes were a must-have, amplifying the eye-opening effect.
Minimal Shadow: Opt for barely-there eyeshadow, focusing on a light wash of color or a single shade to enhance the natural eye shape.

Lips: Natural or Pop of Color

Nude Lips: Embrace the "barely-there" lip trend with a nude lip balm or gloss for a subtle, natural look.
Bold Red: For a pop of color, choose a bright red lipstick with a matte or satin finish.

Skin: Dewy and Flawless

Light Foundation: Opt for a light foundation or tinted moisturizer, aiming for a natural, dewy finish.
Blush: A touch of blush on the apples of the cheeks adds a healthy flush. Choose a light, peachy shade for a natural look.

The Glam Look: 70s Makeup Trends

The 1970s witnessed a transition towards a more glamorous and extravagant style. Bold colors, dramatic eye makeup, and shimmering finishes were the hallmarks of this era, reflecting the rise of disco and a more liberated attitude towards makeup.

Eyes: Shimmer and Shine

Metallic Shadow: Metallic eyeshadows were a staple, creating dramatic eye-catching looks. Experiment with gold, silver, bronze, and copper shades.
Smoky Eye: The smoky eye became a defining feature of 70s makeup, using a blend of dark shades like grey, black, or brown to create depth and definition.
Lash Curler: Long, curled lashes were essential for creating a dramatic and glamorous look.

Lips: Bold and Bright

Brown Lipstick: Brown lipstick was a popular choice, offering a sophisticated and edgy alternative to red.
Coral Lipstick: Coral lipstick was another popular choice, adding a touch of brightness to the look.

Skin: Bronzed and Glowing

Bronzer: Bronzer was widely used to create a sun-kissed glow and contour the face. Apply it to the cheekbones, forehead, and nose.
Highlight: Highlighting was another key element, adding luminosity to the high points of the face.

Recreate Retro Makeup for a Modern Twist

While embracing iconic retro looks, modern makeup allows for personalization and customization. Here are some tips to adapt 60s and 70s makeup to your own style:

1. Update Your Eyeshadow Palette

Opt for modern eyeshadow formulas with better pigmentation and longevity.
Choose shades that complement your skin tone and eye color.
Use a blending brush to create a seamless and blended look.

2. Embrace Modern Liner Techniques

Practice with different winged eyeliner shapes to find the best fit for your eyes.
Experiment with colored liners for a modern twist on classic black.
Use waterproof liner for long-lasting wear.

3. Play with Lip Colors

Don't shy away from bold, bright lip colors.
Consider using a lip liner to define the lips before applying lipstick.
Experiment with glosses and balms for a modern sheen.

4. Modernize Your Skin

Choose a lightweight foundation formula that provides coverage without feeling heavy.
Embrace modern contouring techniques for a natural and sculpted look.
Use a highlighter for a subtle, glowy effect.

FAQ: Retro Makeup Trends

1. What are the best tools for applying 60s and 70s makeup?

Eyeliner brush: For precise and bold eyeliner application.
Angled brush: To blend eyeshadow and create a smoky eye effect.
Blending sponge: To create a seamless and blended look.
Lash curler: To curl lashes and create a dramatic look.
False lash applicator: For applying false lashes with ease.

2. How can I make my retro makeup look more modern?

Choose lighter eye shadow shades: While bold colors are iconic, opt for lighter shades for a more contemporary take.
Use cream or liquid eyeliner: These formulas offer a more modern finish than traditional pencil liners.
Apply blush sparingly: A light touch of blush is more flattering for modern looks.
Skip the heavy foundation: Opt for a lightweight foundation or tinted moisturizer.

3. What are the key differences between 60s and 70s makeup?

60s makeup: Emphasizes clean lines, minimal shadow, and bold eyeliner for a modern look.
70s makeup: Includes metallic shadows, smoky eyes, and bold lip colors for a glamorous and dramatic effect.

Conclusion: Embrace Timelessness with Retro Makeup

The 60s and 70s makeup trends offer a timeless allure, drawing inspiration from decades of bold experimentation and glamorous style. While vintage looks can be recreated with modern techniques and products, the key to success lies in experimentation, creativity, and embracing your own unique style. By mastering the techniques and adapting these trends to your own preferences, you can create timeless makeup looks that are as relevant and chic today as they were decades ago.

Call to Action: Ready to experiment with retro makeup? Share your favorite 60s and 70s makeup trends in the comments below! Let’s dive into the world of vintage style and discover the magic of retro makeup.