80s Grunge Makeup: The Ultimate Guide

The 1980s were a decade of bold fashion and music, and grunge was a defining subculture that emerged from the Seattle underground music scene. Grunge makeup reflected this rebellious spirit, taking inspiration from the raw, unpolished aesthetic of the era. It embraced undone beauty, celebrating blemishes and imperfections, contrasting the more polished trends of the time. If you're looking to channel the raw energy and rebellious edge of 80s grunge, this guide will provide you with everything you need to know.

The Grunge Look: A Brief Overview

80s grunge makeup is characterized by a focus on natural features, with a focus on enhancing them rather than hiding them. Think "no makeup" makeup, with an emphasis on imperfections and a smudged, smoldering aesthetic. This look was about rebellion against traditional beauty standards, embracing individuality and a raw, authentic look.

Key Elements of 80s Grunge Makeup

To fully understand 80s grunge makeup, it's important to break down its core elements:

1. Skin:

Minimal Coverage: Grunge makeup emphasized a natural, almost bare-faced look. Instead of striving for flawless coverage, the goal was to embrace the skin's texture and imperfections.
- Tip: Opt for tinted moisturizers, BB creams, or sheer foundations that even out skin tone without hiding blemishes.
Matte Finish: A matte finish was preferred over dewy or shiny skin, further emphasizing the raw and natural aesthetic.
- Tip: Choose matte foundations and concealers, or use a mattifying powder to set your makeup.
Rosy Glow: A healthy flush of color on the cheeks was a key element of 80s grunge makeup, adding a hint of vibrancy to the otherwise minimalist look.
- Tip: Use a cream blush in a natural shade like peach, rose, or coral. Blend it lightly onto the apples of your cheeks for a natural flush.

2. Eyes:

Smoky Eyes: The signature look of 80s grunge makeup involved smudged, smoky eyes.
- Tip: Use black or dark brown eyeshadows to create a smoky effect. You can also experiment with shades like charcoal, purple, or blue to add a touch of color.
Bold Eyeliner: Eyeliner was often used to enhance the eye shape and create a more dramatic effect.
- Tip: Go for a black or dark brown liner. Use it to line the upper lash line and smudge it out for a more defined look.
Mascara: Mascara was used sparingly, with a focus on emphasizing the natural lash line.
- Tip: Opt for a black mascara with a defining formula. Apply a few coats for a natural but noticeable lift.
No Eyebrows: Many grunge icons embraced a "no eyebrow" look.
- Tip: If you're feeling bold, you can try this look by simply brushing your brows up and using a clear brow gel to hold them in place.

3. Lips:

Neutral Lips: Lips were typically kept nude or barely there to maintain the minimalist look.
- Tip: Use a lip balm or a sheer lip gloss in nude shades. You can also opt for a matte lipstick in a natural color for a more polished look.
Emphasis on Contour: To further accentuate the natural features, 80s Grunge makeup relied heavily on contouring.
- Tip: Use a contouring powder or cream to define the cheekbones, jawline, and nose, adding depth and dimension to the face.

80s Grunge Makeup Inspiration: The Icon

Courtney Love: As the lead singer of Hole, Courtney Love epitomized the grunge aesthetic. Her messy hair, smudged eyeliner, and pale complexion became iconic symbols of the movement.
Jennie Garth: Known for her role as Kelly Taylor in the TV show Beverly Hills, 90210, Jennie Garth's signature look included smudged black eyeliner and a natural, no-makeup makeup aesthetic.
The Riot Grrrl Movement: This movement, which emerged as a counter-culture movement, embraced DIY ethics and feminist ideals. Riot grrrl makeup often involved stark black eyeliner, bold red lips, and a punk-rock attitude.

How to Create an 80s Grunge Makeup Look

1. Prep Your Skin: Start by cleansing and moisturizing your skin. Use a primer to create a smooth canvas for your makeup.

2. Apply Foundation: Select a sheer foundation or tinted moisturizer that matches your skin tone. Apply it sparingly to even out your skin tone without hiding blemishes.

3. Contour: Use a contouring powder or cream to define your cheekbones, jawline, and nose. Blend well for a natural look.

4. Create Smoky Eyes: Use a black or dark brown eyeshadow to create a smoky effect on your eyelids. Smudge the shadow out with a brush for a soft, diffused look.

5. Define Your Eyes: Use a black or dark brown eyeliner to line your upper lash line. Smudge the liner with a brush for a more dramatic effect.

6. Apply Mascara: Use a black mascara with a defining formula to emphasize your natural lash line. Apply a few coats for a natural but noticeable lift.

7. Set Your Makeup: Use a translucent powder to set your makeup and control shine.

8. Finish With Lips: Apply a lip balm or sheer lip gloss in a nude shade. You can also opt for a matte lipstick in a natural color for a more polished look.

Grunge Makeup FAQs

1. Can I wear 80s grunge makeup with other makeup styles?

Absolutely! Grunge makeup can be incorporated into other makeup styles to add a touch of edge. You can experiment with combining it with a bold lip, a shimmery eyeshadow, or even with a more polished look. The beauty of grunge makeup is its versatility.

2. Is 80s grunge makeup appropriate for all skin tones?

Yes, grunge makeup can be adapted to suit all skin tones. The key is to use shades and products that complement your natural complexion. For example, if you have darker skin, you can use darker shades of eyeshadow and liner to create a smoky effect.

3. How do I find the right grunge makeup products?

Look for products that are designed to create a natural, smudged look. Matte foundations, cream blushes, and long-lasting eyeshadows are good choices. You can also find specialized grunge makeup kits that include everything you need to create the look.

4. What are some tips for applying 80s grunge makeup?

Use your fingers to blend eyeshadow for a more natural look
Don't be afraid to experiment with different shades and textures
Embrace imperfections and celebrate your unique features

Conclusion: Embrace Your Inner Rebel

80s grunge makeup is all about embracing individuality and celebrating raw, authentic beauty. By understanding its key elements and experimenting with different techniques, you can create your own unique grunge look that reflects your personal style. Remember, it's about embracing the imperfect and rocking your individuality!