70s Goth Makeup Tutorial: Dark & Edgy Looks

The 1970s was a decade of rebellion and self-expression, and the goth subculture emerged as a powerful force, influencing fashion, music, and, of course, makeup. While modern goth makeup leans towards a more dramatic and ethereal aesthetic, 70s goth makeup had a raw, punk-inspired edge. It was all about embracing darkness, rebellion, and a touch of the macabre, all while staying true to the era's glamorous spirit.

This tutorial will guide you through the key elements of 70s goth makeup, offering detailed steps and tips to achieve iconic looks that channel the spirit of the decade. Whether you're a seasoned goth enthusiast or simply looking to add a touch of darkness to your makeup routine, this guide will help you unlock the secrets of this unique and timeless style.

The Foundations of 70s Goth Makeup

The foundation of any successful 70s goth makeup look is establishing a canvas that complements the dramatic features. This involves a few crucial steps:

1. Prepping Your Skin

Start by cleansing and moisturizing your skin to ensure a smooth and even base for your makeup. A gentle exfoliation can further enhance the look of your skin.

2. Finding the Right Foundation

For a true 70s goth look, a pale foundation is a must. It adds a ghostly touch and creates a striking contrast with the dark elements of the makeup.

Tip: Opt for a foundation that's one or two shades lighter than your natural skin tone.

3. Concealing Imperfections

Use a concealer to cover any blemishes or dark circles. You can go for a natural or slightly lighter shade depending on your preference.

4. Setting Your Canvas

Applying a translucent powder will help set your foundation and concealer, preventing smudging and ensuring your makeup stays flawless throughout the day or night.

Mastering the Eyes: Dark & Dramatic

The eyes are the focal point of any goth makeup look, and 70s goth makeup took it to a whole new level. Here's how to create those signature smoky eyes:

1. Defining the Brows

Start by shaping your brows with a brow pencil or powder. For a 70s goth vibe, opt for a slightly thicker, arched brow shape.

2. The Smoky Eye Essentials

You'll need a black eyeshadow palette with a range of textures, including matte, shimmer, and metallic shades.

3. Creating the Base

Apply a light, neutral shade of eyeshadow all over your lid as a base.
Use a dark matte black eyeshadow to define the crease of your eye.
Blend the black eyeshadow outwards and upwards towards your brow bone to create a soft, smoky effect.

4. Adding Depth and Dimension

Use a black shimmer or metallic eyeshadow to add a touch of glamour to the center of your eyelid.
Apply a black eyeliner along your lash line, extending it slightly outwards to create a winged effect.
Use a small, angled brush to blend the black eyeshadow upwards and outwards towards the wing of the eyeliner.

5. Finishing Touches

Apply a few coats of black mascara to your lashes to complete the dramatic eye look.
For extra emphasis, you can use false lashes for a more dramatic effect.

Embracing the Paleness: The Classic Goth Lip

The 70s goth aesthetic is all about embracing paleness.

1. Choosing a Lip Color

Opt for a classic black lipstick or a dark, deep maroon shade.
Avoid bright, bold colors, as they tend to clash with the overall aesthetic.

2. Prepping Your Lips

Exfoliate your lips to remove any dry skin and create a smooth surface for the lipstick.
Apply a lip balm for added hydration and lasting wear.

3. Applying the Lipstick

Use a lip liner to define the shape of your lips.
Fill in your lips with the lipstick of your choice.
For a more dramatic look, you can apply a second coat of the lipstick.

4. Setting Your Lipstick

Use a clear lip gloss to set the lipstick and add a touch of shine.

Adding the Finishing Touches: The Gothic Glow

To truly nail the 70s goth look, there are a few essential finishing touches that will enhance the overall aesthetic:

1. The Blush of Darkness

Apply a soft, matte blush in a shade of dark pink or plum to your cheekbones. This adds a touch of color without detracting from the overall paleness.
For an even more dramatic look, you can use a contouring powder to define your cheekbones and jawline.

2. The Gothic Glow

While the focus is on darkness, a subtle highlight can add a touch of elegance.
Use a shimmery highlighter on your cheekbones and brow bone to create a subtle glow.

3. The Hair of the 70s

70s goth hair was all about volume and rebellion.
A classic look is a bouffant with a side part or a messy, textured ponytail.
You can also add a touch of creativity with hair accessories like black headbands or ribbons.

70s Goth Makeup: Variations on a Theme

While the core elements of 70s goth makeup remain consistent, there are several variations you can explore:

1. The Punk Goth Look

Emphasize the rebellious spirit of the era with a more intense black eyeshadow, a dramatic eyeliner, and a bold, black lipstick.
Add a touch of punk rock to your hair with a mohawk, a dramatic side part, or a lot of texture.

2. The Glam Goth Look

Embrace a more glamorous side of the goth aesthetic with a subtle shimmer in the eye and a dark, sophisticated lip.
Opt for a sleek, polished hair style to complement the glamorous feel.

3. The Victorian Goth Look

Draw inspiration from the elegant darkness of Victorian fashion with a pale complexion, a soft, smoky eye, and a dark, romantic lip.
Consider incorporating lace-inspired details into your outfit and accessorize with vintage jewelry.

70s Goth Makeup: FAQs

1. What is the best way to apply black lipstick?

Start by defining your lips with a black lip liner.
Use a lip brush to apply the black lipstick evenly.
Blot your lips with a tissue to remove any excess lipstick.
Apply a second coat for a more dramatic look.

2. What are some essential 70s goth makeup products?

A palette with a range of black eyeshadows (matte, shimmer, metallic).
A black eyeliner.
A black lipstick.
A pale foundation.
A translucent powder.
A black brow pencil or powder.
A contouring powder.
A dark pink or plum blush.

3. Can I adapt 70s goth makeup for everyday wear?

Absolutely! You can create toned-down versions of the 70s goth look for everyday wear.
Opt for a lighter application of eyeshadow, a less dramatic eyeliner, and a more subtle lip color.

Conclusion

70s goth makeup is all about embracing darkness, rebellion, and self-expression. By mastering the key elements of this iconic style, you can create looks that are both timeless and edgy. Experiment with different variations, personalize your aesthetic, and unleash your inner goth. Remember, the most important aspect of this look is to have fun and embrace your unique style!

Call-to-Action:

Dive deeper into the world of goth makeup with this fascinating article on [link to relevant article].
Explore these essential [link to online store] products to create your own 70s goth makeup looks.