70s Eye Makeup Looks: Retro Glam Inspiration
70s Eye Makeup Looks: Retro Glam Inspiration
Readers, have you ever been captivated by the bold and glamorous eye makeup looks of the 1970s? The era of disco, bell bottoms, and vibrant fashion brought with it a distinct approach to beauty, with eyes taking center stage. From the iconic winged liner to the mesmerizing smoky eye, 70s eye makeup is a timeless trend that continues to inspire modern makeup enthusiasts. But how can you recreate these iconic looks with a modern twist?
I have spent countless hours analyzing and recreating 70s eye makeup looks, drawing inspiration from iconic figures like Farrah Fawcett, Cher, and Diana Ross. I'm excited to share my knowledge and guide you through the essentials of achieving that retro glam aura. Get ready to embrace a world of color, shimmer, and bold strokes as we delve into the captivating world of 70s eye makeup.
The Essence of 70s Eye Makeup
Understanding the core elements of 70s eye makeup is crucial to capturing its essence. Think bold, graphic lines, vibrant colors, and a focus on emphasizing the eyes.
One of the hallmarks of 70s eye makeup was the use of contrasting colors. Think of deep browns paired with shimmering golds, turquoise blues with deep purples, or emerald greens with shimmering silver. This contrast created a dramatic effect that drew attention to the eyes.
Another defining aspect was the emphasis on creating a sculpted look. This involved using eyeshadow and eyeliner to define the crease and create a dramatic shape that opened up the eyes. We'll explore these techniques further in the sections below.
The Must-Have 70s Eye Makeup Products
Before you start experimenting with 70s eye makeup looks, you need to gather the right tools and products. Here's your essential 70s makeup kit:
Eyeshadow Palettes
When it comes to eyeshadow, the 70s were all about vibrant colors and shimmering textures. Opt for palettes featuring shades like deep browns, shimmering golds, bold blues, and emerald greens. You'll need a good mix of matte and shimmery shadows to create depth and dimension.
Eyeliner
Eyeliner is crucial for achieving the dramatic and graphic looks of the 70s. Look for liquid eyeliner with a fine tip for precise application. Gel eyeliners are also a great choice, as they provide a smooth and long-lasting finish. Don't forget to stock up on black and brown eyeliner – these are the staples of many iconic 70s looks.
Mascara
Mascara is essential for adding volume and definition to your lashes. Choose a mascara that delivers both volume and length. Black mascara is an obvious choice, but if you're feeling bold, try a deep brown or even a colored mascara. Remember, the 70s were all about making a statement!
False Lashes
For those who want to go all out, false lashes are a must-have. Choose lashes that are full and dramatic, adding a touch of extra flair. The 70s embraced eye-catching lashes, so don't be afraid to experiment with different styles to find what suits your face shape.
Brushes
Investing in a good set of makeup brushes is crucial for seamless blending and application. You'll need brushes for applying eyeshadow, blending, and creating precise lines with eyeliner.
Iconic 70s Eye Makeup Looks
Now that you have your makeup essentials, let's delve into some iconic 70s eye makeup looks that will transport you back in time.
The Classic Winged Liner
The winged liner is perhaps the most quintessential 70s eye makeup look. It’s a timeless trend that remains popular today. To achieve the perfect wing, start by applying a thin line of liquid eyeliner along your upper lash line, extending the line out past the corner of your eye. Then, create a sharp angle, lifting the line upwards as you move towards the outer corner of your eyebrow. Fill in the wing to create a bold and dramatic look. The most important thing with winged liner is to make sure the lines are sharp and defined. You can also add a swipe of mascara to complete the look.
The Shimmering Smoky Eye
The smoky eye was another popular 70s look, and it’s a great way to add some drama to your eyes. To create a smoky eye, start by applying a light, shimmery eyeshadow to your eyelid. Then, use a darker eyeshadow, such as a deep brown or black, to define the crease of your eye. Blend the colors together for a seamless look. You can also use eyeliner to line your lash line and smudge the color to create a more intense smoky effect. To add some extra sparkle, apply a shimmery eyeshadow to the center of your eyelid, and finish the look with a few coats of mascara.
The Bold Colored Eye
The 70s embraced bold colors in eye makeup, and this trend is making a comeback. To create a bold colored eye, start by applying a neutral eyeshadow as a base. Then, using a vibrant eyeshadow, such as a blue, green, or purple, create a graphic line across your eyelid. You can also use the same color to line your lash line. The key to this look is to keep the rest of your makeup minimal, so the bold colors are the focus. You can also use a shimmery eyeshadow to add a touch of extra sparkle to your look.
Tips for Mastering 70s Eye Makeup
Mastering 70s eye makeup requires precision and a bit of creativity. Here are some tips to help you get started:
Practice Precision
Practice makes perfect. Start with a clean slate by preparing your eyelids with primer for a smooth canvas. Ensure your liquid eyeliner is fresh and hasn't thickened. Use a steady hand and a mirror with good lighting for optimal visibility. If you're not confident with liquid liner, grab a trusty pencil liner for easier control.
Embrace Experimentation
Don't be afraid to experiment. Try different colors and techniques to find what works best for you. The beauty of 70s eye makeup is that it's all about expressing yourself. There are no rules!
Don't Forget the Lashes
Lashes were a big part of the 70s look. Try using false lashes to add extra volume and length to your eyes. You can also apply mascara liberally. If you're not used to false lashes, start with a lighter pair and practice application.
Minimalize Other Makeup
When doing a bold eye look, it's important to remember that your eyes should be the center of attention. Keep your other makeup minimal. A nude lip or a light blush will help to balance out the look. The 70s were all about the eyes, and so should your look. Don't overpower your eyes with heavy lipstick.
Blending is Key
Blending is key to achieving a seamless and sophisticated look. Use a fluffy brush to blend eyeshadow colors together, creating a smooth transition. Don't be afraid to use a little bit of pressure when blending. You want the colors to blend together seamlessly, without any harsh lines.
70s Eye Makeup: From Runway Trends to Everyday Looks
While the 70s eye makeup looks are a great way to make a statement, they can also be adapted for everyday wear. Here are some tips on how to incorporate these looks into your everyday routine.
The Everyday Wing
For a toned-down version of the winged liner, switch out your liquid liner for a brown or black pencil liner. Apply a thin line along your upper lash line, extending it slightly past the corner of your eye. You can also use a light brown eyeshadow to blend out the line, giving it a more subtle effect. Finish with a few coats of mascara.
The Soft Smoky Eye
To create a softer smoky eye, use a light brown or gray eyeshadow to define the crease of your eye. Then, use a shimmery eyeshadow to highlight the center of your eyelid. Use a small amount of mascara to finish the look. This is a good option for everyday wear, as it creates a subtle and elegant effect.
The Color Pop
Instead of creating a bold graphic line, you can add a touch of color to your everyday look by simply applying a bit of eyeshadow to the outer corner of your eye. For example, you can use a purple eyeshadow to create a subtle pop of color. You can also experiment with different colored eyeliners to add a touch of flair.
70s Eye Makeup: From Day to Night
With the right techniques, you can easily transition your 70s eye makeup from day to night. To transform a daytime look into a more dramatic nighttime look, simply add more intensity to your eyeshadow. You can also use a black liquid liner to create a more defined winged liner. For extra drama, finish with a few coats of mascara and a pair of false lashes.
70s Eye Makeup: A Celebration of Individuality
The beauty of 70s eye makeup is its versatility. It's all about celebrating your individuality and expressing yourself through makeup. Whether you choose to embrace the iconic looks of the era or put your own spin on them, 70s eye makeup is a fun and exciting way to experiment with your style.
FAQ About 70s Eye Makeup
What are the best colors to use for 70s eye makeup?
The best colors are bold, dynamic colors like deep browns, shimmering golds, blues, and greens. You can also experiment with contrasting colors to create a dramatic effect.
What are some techniques I can use to create 70s eye makeup looks?
The key techniques are bold eyeliner, creating a sculpted look with eyeshadow, and using contrasting and vibrant colors. Always ensure your makeup is blended smoothly for a professional look.
How can I update 70s eye makeup for modern times?
You can modernize the look by adding a touch of shimmer, blending out the edges for a softer look, or using more contemporary colors. Don't feel like you need to replicate the looks exactly as they were. Embrace your own style!
Conclusion
The 70s was a decade of bold fashion and even bolder makeup. The iconic eye makeup looks of the era are a timeless trend that can be adapted for modern times. From the classic winged liner to the shimmering smoky eye, there's a 70s eye makeup look for every style. So, grab your makeup brushes and experiment with your own retro-inspired beauty creations! Remember, the key to success with 70s eye makeup is all about embracing your individuality and having fun with it. If you're looking for more inspiration, check out our other articles on vintage makeup trends.
