80s Makeup Eyeliner: Iconic Looks & Tutorials
makeupeyelinericoniclookstutorials">80s Makeup Eyeliner: Iconic Looks & Tutorials
The 1980s was a decade of bold fashion and even bolder makeup, and eyeliner was a key component. From the sharp flicks of the power suits to the dramatic cat eyes of the club scene, 80s eyeliner defined a generation's style. Join us as we explore iconic 80s eyeliner looks, delve into the techniques that made them famous, and offer tutorials for recreating these timeless styles.
The Evolution of 80s Eyeliner: A Decade of Drama
The 80s saw a dramatic shift in eyeliner trends, moving from the subtle, understated lines of the 70s to more pronounced, graphic shapes. This evolution was spurred by a confluence of factors: the rise of power dressing, the influence of pop culture icons, and the emergence of new makeup technologies.
Early 80s eyeliner was often characterized by thin lines and subtle flicks, inspired by the minimalist trends of the late 70s. As the decade progressed, bold cat eyes became increasingly popular, symbolizing strength and empowerment. The iconic "winged" eyeliner emerged, creating a dramatic uplift at the outer corner of the eye.
Iconic 80s Eyeliner Looks: From Power Suits to Power Ballads
The 80s offered a smorgasbord of eyeliner looks, each reflecting a different facet of the decade's style. Here are some of the most iconic:
1. The Power Suit Flick: This sharp, angular line, often drawn with liquid liner, was a staple of the power dressing era. It emphasized the sharp lines of shoulder pads and structured blazers, reflecting the confident, ambitious spirit of the times.
2. The Cat Eye: This universally flattering look involved drawing a thin line along the lash line, extending it outwards into a dramatic flick, creating a captivating feline effect. The cat eye was equally at home in the boardroom or on the dance floor, making it a versatile and enduring style.
3. The Double Wing: Taking the cat eye to the next level, the double wing involved drawing two distinct wings. One wing extended outwards towards the temple, while the other was drawn along the lower lash line, creating a dramatic, eye-opening effect.
4. The Thick Line: This bold statement emphasized the eye's shape, drawing a thick line along the upper lash line, often extending towards the outer corner. The thick line epitomized the era's penchant for drama and over-the-top beauty.
5. The Colored Liner: The 80s embraced color, and this extended to eyeliner. Bold shades like teal, purple, and electric blue were popular choices, adding a pop of vibrance to any look.
Essential 80s Eyeliner Techniques: Tools & Tips
Recreate the iconic 80s eyeliner looks with these techniques and tricks:
1. Mastering the Feline Flick: For a perfect cat eye, use liquid liner for a sharp, defined line. Start by drawing a thin line along the upper lash line, then gradually thicken it as you move outwards. When you reach the outer corner, lift your brush slightly upwards and draw a flick towards the temple.
2. The Power of Liquid Liner: Liquid liner was a ubiquitous 80s tool, allowing for precise lines and dramatic effects. Use a good-quality liquid liner, with a fine tip for the best results. Practice on the back of your hand before attempting on your eyes.
3. The Art of Smudging: For a softer, more diffused look, try smudging your eyeliner with a small brush or cotton swab. This technique creates a hazy, smoky effect, perfect for a more relaxed, evening look.
4. The Importance of Matching: It's crucial to match your eyeliner to your eye color for optimal effect. For blue eyes, try black, dark brown, or deep blue liner. For green eyes, consider brown, plum, or emerald. Brown eyes can wear a variety of colors, from classic black to playful green or gold.
5. Don't Forget the Lower Lash Line: While the upper lash line is often the focus, the lower lash line can also be styled for added drama. Try a thin line of liner along the lower lash line, or create a smoky effect with a soft pencil.
80s Eyeliner Tutorials: Step-by-Step Instructions
Here are detailed tutorials for recreating popular 80s eyeliner looks:
1. The Power Suit Flick:
- Step 1: Start with a clean eyelid. Apply a light eyeshadow base for better grip.
- Step 2: Use a liquid liner to create a thin line along the upper lash line.
- Step 3: Extend the line outwards, gradually thickening it as you go.
- Step 4: Lift the brush slightly upward to create a sharp flick towards the temple.
- Step 5: Clean up any mistakes with a cotton swab dipped in makeup remover.
2. The Cat Eye:
- Step 1: Apply a light eyeshadow to the lid and crease.
- Step 2: Use a liquid liner or felt-tip liner to draw a thin line along the upper lash line.
- Step 3: Extend the line outwards towards the temple, curving it upwards as you go.
- Step 4: Adjust the width and angle of the flick until you achieve your desired look. Use a cotton swab to clean up any mistakes.
3. The Double Wing:
- Step 1: Apply a light eyeshadow to the lid and crease.
- Step 2: Use a liquid liner to draw a thin line along the upper lash line.
- Step 3: Extend the line outwards towards the temple, creating a dramatic flick.
- Step 4: Draw a thin line along the lower lash line, starting from the outer corner and extending inwards towards the center of the eye.
- Step 5: Where the lines meet, connect them with a small, curved line to create a 'double wing' effect.
80s Eyeliner: FAQ
1. How do I choose the right liquid liner for 80s makeup?
Choose a liquid liner with a fine tip for precise application. Look for a long-lasting formula that won't smudge or fade. Consider black or dark brown for a classic look, or experiment with bolder colors like blue or green.
2. What are the best eyeliner tips for beginners?
Start by practicing on your hand before attempting on your eyes. Use a light hand and build up the line gradually. Clean up any mistakes with a cotton swab dipped in makeup remover.
3. Is 80s eyeliner still trendy?
While trends evolve, 80s eyeliner has experienced a resurgence in popularity. Modern interpretations of the classic looks - like the cat eye and the winged liner - are consistently popular, proving the enduring appeal of 80s style.
Conclusion: Embrace the 80s Eyeliner Legacy
80s eyeliner was more than just a beauty trend; it was an expression of self-confidence, individuality, and audacious style. Whether you're recreating iconic looks or adding a touch of 80s flair to your modern makeup routine, embracing the bold lines and creative possibilities of 80s eyeliner is a fun and empowering way to celebrate a decade that defined a generation. So grab your liquid liner, embrace the drama, and let your eyes speak volumes.
Call to Action: What's your favorite 80s eyeliner look? Share your tips and tricks in the comments below!
