70s Makeup Looks: Retro Glamour Guide

The '70s were a decade of bold experimentation, and makeup trends reflected this perfectly! From the disco-infused glitz to the natural, bohemian vibes, 70s makeup offered a range of looks catering to every personality. If you're looking to channel your inner retro goddess, this guide will help you navigate the iconic styles and recreate them for modern times.

The Rise of Disco Glamour

This era saw a surge in bold, dramatic makeup, mirroring the vibrant energy of the disco scene. Think shimmering eyelids, thick eyeliner, and statement lips.

Key Elements of Disco Makeup:

Eyes: The focus was on creating wide, expressive eyes.
- Shimmering Eyeshadows: Gold, silver, bronze, and copper shades were staples, applied liberally across the lid and up to the crease.
- Dramatic Eyeliner: Black liquid liner was used to create a bold wing, often extended beyond the outer corner of the eye for a dramatic effect.
- False Lashes: Full, fluttery false lashes were a must-have to enhance the overall glamour.
Cheeks: Rosy cheeks were a popular choice, adding a healthy flush to the complexion.
- Blush: Cream or powder blush in shades of pink, coral, or peach was applied to the apples of cheeks.
Lips: Lips were often bold, complementing the dramatic eye makeup.
- Matte Lipsticks: Red, burgundy, plum, and brown hues were popular choices in matte finishes.
- Glossy Lips: Glossy lip glosses were also used to add shine and volume.

Pro Tip: To avoid an overly heavy look, use a light hand when applying the eyeshadow and blush. Focus on one feature – the eye or the lip – and keep the other softer.

The Natural Bohemian Look

Counterbalancing the disco glamour, the '70s also witnessed a rise in the bohemian aesthetic, embracing softer tones and emphasizing natural beauty.

Key Elements of Boho Makeup:

Eyes: The focus was on creating a soft, natural look.
- Neutral Eyeshadows: Brown, beige, and peach shades were used to define the crease and add dimension.
- Subtle Eyeliner: A thin line of brown or black eyeliner was applied to the lash line for a subtle definition.
- Mascara: One or two coats of brown or black mascara were used to lengthen and define the lashes.
Cheeks: A natural flush was preferred, with a focus on healthy-looking skin.
- Blush: A light dusting of peach or pink blush was applied to the apples of cheeks.
Lips: The focus was on enhancing natural lip color.
- Neutral Lip Colors: Beige, nude, or light peach shades were used to create a soft, natural finish.

Pro Tip: To achieve a truly bohemian look, embrace imperfections. Allow your freckles to show and use a minimal amount of makeup.

The Grunge Revolution

The late '70s saw the emergence of the grunge movement, bringing with it a new wave of rebellious, unpolished styles. Grunge makeup was all about embracing imperfection and a natural, undone look.

Key Elements of Grunge Makeup:

Eyes: The goal was to create a smudged, smoky effect.
- Dark Eyeshadows: Black, navy, or dark brown eyeshadows were applied heavily to the crease and blended out for a smoky look.
- Heavy Eyeliner: Black eyeliner was used to line the lash line and create a dramatic effect.
- Natural Lashes: No false lashes were used, and mascara was applied sparingly.
Cheeks: A natural flush was preferred, with a focus on healthy-looking skin.
- Blush: A light dusting of brown or pink blush was applied to the apples of cheeks.
Lips: The focus was on enhancing natural lip color.
- Neutral Lip Colors: Beige, nude, or tinted lip balms were used to create a soft, natural finish.
- Dark Lipstick: Black or dark brown lipstick was sometimes used for a rebellious statement.

Pro Tip: Embrace the messy, imperfect look by using a smudged, blended technique for eyeshadow and eyeliner.

The Power of '70s Makeup Today

While the '70s makeup trends may seem dated at first glance, they offer a timeless elegance and a unique retro charm. By applying them with a modern touch, you can achieve a truly unique and stylish look.

Modernizing 70s Makeup:

Modern Colors: Experiment with bolder, more modern shades of eyeshadow, blush, and lipstick.
Subtlety is Key: Instead of recreating the full-on disco look, focus on incorporating one or two key elements.
Modern Techniques: Use modern makeup techniques, such as blending and strobing, to create a polished, contemporary finish.

The Essential Makeup Kit

To recreate these iconic looks, you'll need some essential makeup tools and products:

Eyeshadow Palette: A versatile palette with neutral shades, shimmery colors, and darker options for smoky eyes.
Eyeliner: Black liquid liner for a precise wing or a black pencil for a smudged effect.
Mascara: Black or brown mascara for definition and length.
Blush: Cream or powder blush in shades of pink, peach, or coral.
Lipstick: Matte reds, burgundies, and nudes for a variety of looks.
Lip Gloss: For a glamorous, volumizing effect.
Eye Lash Curler: For lifting and curling the lashes.
Makeup Brushes: A variety of brushes for blending, applying, and smudging.

FAQ

What is the best way to create a 70s eye look? The best way to recreate the 70s eye look is to focus on creating a dramatic, winged eye with bold eyeliner. You can also experiment with shimmery eyeshadows and false lashes.
How can I make 70s makeup work for a modern look? Focus on incorporating one or two key elements of the 70s look, such as a bold lip or a winged eye, and use modern techniques to achieve a polished finish.
What are some popular 70s makeup trends that are still trendy today? Many 70s trends, such as bold eyeliner, shimmering eyeshadow, and natural makeup, are still popular today.

Conclusion

70s makeup offers a diverse palette of looks, from the dazzling disco glamour to the effortless boho style. By understanding the key elements of these looks and adapting them to modern aesthetics, you can recreate timeless retro glamour and express your individual style. So, grab your eyeshadow palettes, bold lipsticks, and lash curlers, and get ready to embrace the bold and beautiful world of 70s makeup!

Call to Action: Explore our complete collection of makeup tutorials and discover the perfect 70s look for you!