80s Bollywood Makeup Looks: Recreate the Glamour
80s Bollywood Makeup Looks: Recreate the Glamour
The 1980s were a golden era for Bollywood, not just for the iconic music and dance numbers but also for the bold and glamorous makeup looks that graced the silver screen. From the dramatic eye makeup to the vibrant lips, 80s Bollywood makeup was all about making a statement. This article delves into the key features of this iconic style, providing a comprehensive guide for anyone looking to recreate the glamour of this bygone era.
The Foundations of 80s Bollywood Makeup
The cornerstone of any 80s Bollywood makeup look was a flawless base. This was achieved with a heavy emphasis on foundation and concealer. The goal was to create a smooth, porcelain-like finish, often several shades lighter than the natural skin tone. This was followed by generous amounts of blush to accentuate the cheekbones and provide a healthy flush.
Foundations & Concealers
- Heavy Coverage: Foundations were often thick and creamy, offering maximum coverage to hide any imperfections.
- Lightening Effect: They were typically chosen in shades one or two shades lighter than the natural skin tone, creating a "fair" look that was considered a beauty standard in those times.
- Concealer for Precision: Concealer was used liberally to cover blemishes, dark circles, and other imperfections, achieving a flawless, even canvas.
Blush for the Cheeks
- Emphasis on Cheekbones: Blush was applied generously to the apples of the cheeks and blended towards the temples, highlighting the cheekbones.
- Bright and Vibrant Tones: Popular colors included peach, pink, and coral for a youthful, healthy glow.
- Contouring with Blush: Some makeup artists even used blush to contour the face, creating depth and dimension.
The Eyes: A Symphony of Color and Drama
The eyes were the stars of the show when it came to 80s Bollywood makeup. Think bright, bold eyeshadows, exaggerated eyeliner, and dramatic lashes. This look aimed to enhance the eyes, making them appear larger and more expressive.
Bold Eyeshadows
- Metallic Finishes: Metallic gold, silver, bronze, and copper eyeshadows were all the rage, creating a glamorous and sophisticated look.
- Vibrant Colors: Blue, green, purple, and pink eyeshadows were also commonly used, adding a pop of color and drama to the eyes.
- Cut Crease Technique: This technique involved creating a sharp crease line with a contrasting eyeshadow, adding definition and making the eyes appear larger.
Exaggerated Eyeliner
- Thick Lines: Bold black or brown eyeliner was used to create a dramatic, winged effect.
- Double Eyeliner: Some opted for double eyeliner, using a black liquid liner on the upper lash line and a colored liner on the lower lash line.
- Graphic Shapes: Eyeliner was used creatively to create graphic shapes, such as thick lines extending outwards from the corners of the eyes.
Dramatic Lashes
- Multiple Layers of Mascara: Mascara was applied liberally, often in multiple coats to create thick, voluminous lashes.
- False Lashes: False lashes were popular, adding extra length and volume to the lash line.
- Individual Lashes: Individual lashes were also used to accentuate the outer corners of the eyes, further enhancing their appearance.
The Lips: A Playful Pop of Color
80s Bollywood makeup was all about making a statement, and the lips were no exception. The trend emphasized vibrant and pigmented colors for a bold and confident look.
Bold Lipstick
- Red for Passion: Red lipstick was a favorite choice, symbolizing confidence and allure.
- Pops of Pink: Pink shades, from soft to bright, were also popular, offering a playful and youthful touch.
- Fuchsia, Coral, and Orange: These vibrant shades added a touch of boldness and energy, making the lips the focal point of the makeup look.
Lip Liner for Precision
- Matching Lipsticks: Lip liner was always used to outline the lips, matching the chosen lipstick color.
- Defining the Lips: Lip liner helped to define the shape of the lips, creating a precise and polished look.
- Preventing Feathering: The lip liner acted as a barrier, preventing the lipstick from bleeding or feathering.
The Hair: Volume and Texture
80s Bollywood hairstyles were characterized by big, voluminous hair with intricate braids and elaborate waves. They added a touch of drama and complemented the flamboyant makeup looks.
Big Hair
- Backcombing: Backcombing was a common technique used to create volume and height at the crown.
- Hairspray: Hairspray was used generously to hold the style in place, ensuring that the hair remained voluminous and full.
- Bouffants: Bouffants were a popular choice, adding a touch of elegance and sophistication.
Braids and Waves
- French Braids: French braids were often incorporated into elaborate hairstyles, adding texture and detail.
- Waves and Curls: Women sported cascading waves and curls, adding softness and femininity to the look.
- Accessories: Hair accessories like headbands, clips, and flowers were used to add a touch of glamour and personality to the hairstyle.
80s Bollywood Makeup: A Timeless Trend
While the 80s may be long gone, the signature makeup looks from that era continue to inspire. The bold eyeshadows, exaggerated eyeliner, and vibrant lips are still seen on runways and in pop culture today, proving that 80s Bollywood makeup is truly timeless.
Modern Interpretations of 80s Bollywood Makeup
The modern take on 80s Bollywood makeup focuses on creating a balanced and contemporary approach. It retains the core elements of bold colors and dramatic eyes but incorporates subtle techniques and modern products for a more refined finish.
- Modern Foundation: Opt for lightweight, buildable foundations that offer natural coverage and a dewy finish.
- Subtle Blush: Instead of heavy blush application, opt for a soft, natural blush to enhance the cheeks.
- Smoky Eyes: Recreate the dramatic eye looks with a modern twist, using a smoky eye technique with neutral and warm eyeshadows.
- Modern Eyeliner: Instead of thick, graphic eyeliner, try a thinner line or a subtle wing for a more contemporary look.
- Glossy Lips: Opt for glossy lipsticks or lip glosses in bold shades, keeping the modern trend of a natural, hydrated finish.
FAQ
Q: What are the key ingredients in 80s Bollywood makeup?
A: The key ingredients include bold eye shadows, exaggerated eyeliner, dramatic lashes, vibrant lipsticks, and foundation for a flawless base.
Q: How can I achieve a modern interpretation of 80s Bollywood makeup?
A: Use modern products like lightweight foundations, subtle blush, smoky eye techniques, and glossy lipsticks to create a contemporary and balanced look.
Q: What are some tips for recreating a specific 80s Bollywood makeup look?
A: Look at inspiration from iconic Bollywood actresses of the era. Study their makeup looks and try to emulate their signature styles.
Q: Is it necessary to wear all of the elements of 80s Bollywood makeup?
A: No, you can choose to wear the elements that you feel most comfortable with and that complement your personal style.
Q: Can I recreate 80s Bollywood makeup looks for everyday wear?
A: Yes, you can tone down the intensity of the makeup elements for a more wearable everyday look.
Conclusion
The 80s Bollywood makeup style is a testament to the power of bold, vibrant colour and dramatic, expressive eyes. It continues to inspire and influence makeup trends today, showcasing a timeless blend of glamour and confidence. By incorporating the key elements and understanding the modern interpretations, you can recreate the iconic looks of this era and embrace the bold, playful spirit of 80s Bollywood makeup.
Ready to unleash your inner Bollywood diva? Find your favorite shades of eyeshadow, lipstick, and eyeliner, and get ready to create a dazzling statement!
