70s Makeup Eyeliner: Iconic Looks & Tutorials

The 1970s was a decade of bold experimentation in fashion and beauty, and <strong>70s makeup eyeliner was no exception. From the dramatic flicks of disco queens to the subtle winged lines of bohemian babes, 70s makeup eyeliner offered a wide range of options for expressing individual style. This era produced some of the most iconic and enduring eyeliner trends that still influence makeup looks today. This article will explore the evolution of 70s makeup eyeliner, spotlighting key looks and providing step-by-step tutorials to help you recreate these timeless styles.

The Rise of Eyeliner in the 70s

The 1970s saw a shift in beauty ideals, moving away from the heavily contoured and sculpted looks of the 1960s. Eyeliner became a dominant feature, emphasizing the eyes and adding a touch of drama and individuality. This departure from the previous decade's more subtle makeup trends played a significant role in propelling eyeliner to the forefront of the beauty world.

Iconic 70s Eyeliner Looks

70s makeup eyeliner came in countless variations, catering to different aesthetics and subcultures. Here are some of the most iconic looks:

1. The Dramatic Flick

This look, often associated with the disco era, featured a bold, extended wing that swept upwards and outwards, creating a dramatic and alluring effect. The winged eyeliner was frequently paired with bold eyeshadow palettes, adding a touch of glamour to the overall look.

Popular Colors: Black, brown, blue, and green were the most popular colors for the dramatic flick.
Tips: Use liquid eyeliner for a precise application, and practice drawing the wing several times to achieve a symmetrical look.

2. The Thin Line

In contrast to the dramatic flick, the thin line was a more understated and minimalist approach to 70s makeup eyeliner. It involved applying a thin line along the upper lash line, emphasizing the natural shape of the eye. This look was particularly popular among bohemian and hippie subcultures, reflecting the era's appreciation for natural beauty.

Popular Colors: Black, brown, and charcoal were the favored colors for the thin line.
Tips: Use a pencil eyeliner for a softer, more natural effect.

3. The Double Wing

This look, often referred to as the "double wing", involved creating two distinct wings on the upper and lower lash lines. The wings were usually connected at the outer corner of the eye, creating a bold and eye-catching effect. This look was popular among those who embraced the dramatic and adventurous feel of 70s fashion.

Popular Colors: Black, brown, and blue were the most common colors for the double wing.
Tips: Use a liquid eyeliner for a precise application, and practice drawing the wings several times to achieve a balanced look.

4. The Graphic Liner

The 70s makeup eyeliner trend also saw the rise of more graphic and abstract designs. From intricate geometric shapes to bold, colorful blocks of color, graphic eyeliner allowed individuals to express their creativity and individuality through their makeup.

Popular Colors: Bold and vibrant colors like blue, green, and purple were popular for graphic eyeliner.
Tips: Use stencils or a steady hand for a precise application of graphic eyeliner.

How to Recreate 70s Eyeliner Looks

Here are some step-by-step tutorials for recreating iconic 70s makeup eyeliner looks:

1. The Dramatic Flick

Step 1: Start with a clean and moisturized face.
Step 2: Apply a primer to create a smooth base for your eyeliner.
Step 3: Use a liquid eyeliner to draw a thin line along your upper lash line, extending it slightly past the outer corner.
Step 4: Create a wing shape by drawing a diagonal line upwards and outwards from the outer corner of your eye.
Step 5: Connect the line to the upper lash line, creating a smooth, extended wing.
Step 6: Fill in the wing with eyeliner to create a solid look.
Step 7: Use a cotton swab to clean up any mistakes and blend the edges for a seamless finish.

2. The Thin Line

Step 1: Start with a clean and moisturized face.
Step 2: Apply a primer to create a smooth base for your eyeliner.
Step 3: Use a pencil eyeliner to draw a thin line along your upper lash line, staying close to the lash line.
Step 4: Lightly blend the line with a cotton swab for a softer, more natural effect.
Step 5: Use a mascara to define your lashes and enhance the look of the thin line.

3. The Double Wing

Step 1: Start with a clean and moisturized face.
Step 2: Apply a primer to create a smooth base for your eyeliner.
Step 3: Use a liquid eyeliner to draw a thin line along your upper lash line, extending it slightly past the outer corner.
Step 4: Create a wing shape by drawing a diagonal line upwards and outwards from the outer corner of your eye.
Step 5: Use a liquid eyeliner to draw a thin line along your lower lash line, ending just below the outer corner of the eye.
Step 6: Connect the lower lash line to the wing tip by drawing a diagonal line downwards.
Step 7: Fill in the wings and lines with eyeliner to create a solid look.
Step 8: Use a cotton swab to clean up any mistakes and blend the edges for a seamless finish.

4. The Graphic Liner

Step 1: Start with a clean and moisturized face.
Step 2: Apply a primer to create a smooth base for your eyeliner.
Step 3: Use stencils or a freehand approach with a liquid eyeliner to create your desired graphic design.
Step 4: Fill in the design with eyeliner to create a bold and vibrant look.
Step 5: Use a cotton swab to clean up any mistakes and blend the edges for a seamless finish.

Eyeliner Trends in the 70s: A Timeline

1970-1972: Thin, subtle eyeliner lines were popular, reflecting the natural and bohemian trends of the early 70s.
1973-1975: As disco culture began to dominate, bolder eyeliner looks like the dramatic flick and double wing gained popularity.
1976-1978: Graphic eyeliner designs emerged as individuals explored more creative and abstract makeup styles.
1979-1980: The thin line and subtle eyeliner styles made a comeback as the decade drew to a close, reflecting a shift towards a more understated aesthetic.

The Impact of 70s Eyeliner on Modern Makeup Trends

70s makeup eyeliner has left an undeniable mark on modern makeup trends. The dramatic flick, the thin line, and graphic eyeliner designs continue to inspire makeup artists and beauty enthusiasts today. The versatility and expressive nature of 70s makeup eyeliner allows for a wide range of interpretations, making it a timeless trend that continues to evolve and adapt to contemporary styles.

FAQ

Q1: What tools do I need for 70s eyeliner?

A: You will need a liquid eyeliner for precise applications, a pencil eyeliner for softer looks, a cotton swab for cleaning up mistakes, and a makeup brush for blending.

Q2: What are some tips for creating a perfect wing?

A: Use a ruler or a piece of tape to create a straight, even wing. Practice drawing the wing several times before applying it to your actual eye. Start with a thin line and gradually build up the thickness of the wing.

Q3: How do I choose the right eyeliner color for my eye color?

A: Black eyeliner is a timeless choice that flatters all eye colors. Brown eyeliner is a softer alternative that works well with brown and hazel eyes. Blue eyeliner complements green and brown eyes, while green eyeliner brings out the warmth of brown and hazel eyes.

Q4: What are some other ways to incorporate 70s eyeliner into my makeup look?

A: You can pair 70s makeup eyeliner with bold eyeshadow colors, shimmering eyeshadows, and dramatic lashes. You can also use 70s makeup eyeliner to create a bold and dramatic eye look or a subtle and feminine effect.

Q5: What are the best resources for learning more about 70s eyeliner techniques?

A: You can find numerous online tutorials, makeup artist videos, and beauty blogs dedicated to 70s makeup eyeliner. You can also consult vintage beauty books and magazines for inspiration and techniques.

Conclusion

70s makeup eyeliner remains a timeless trend that continues to influence modern makeup looks. From the bold flicks of disco divas to the subtle lines of bohemian babes, this era offered a plethora of options for expressing individuality and highlighting the eyes. By understanding the key elements of 70s makeup eyeliner and practicing the tutorials provided, you can recreate these iconic looks and embrace the timeless beauty of this unforgettable decade.

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Explore the world of 70s makeup eyeliner further by browsing online tutorials, watching makeup artist videos, and researching vintage beauty magazines! Unleash your creativity and experiment with these timeless styles to find your perfect 70s makeup look.