80s Eye Makeup: Iconic Looks and Tutorials

makeupiconiclooksandtutorials">80s Eye Makeup: Iconic Looks and Tutorials

The 1980s was a decade of bold fashion choices, and eye makeup was no exception. From the bright colors to the dramatic lines, 80s eye makeup is making a comeback today as a nostalgic trend. This article will dive into the iconic looks and tutorials that defined the decade, giving you the knowledge and inspiration to recreate these bold styles yourself.

The Rise of Bold and Dramatic Eye Makeup

The 1980s witnessed a dramatic shift in beauty trends. Influenced by the rise of pop culture icons like Madonna, Cyndi Lauper, and Grace Jones, 80s eye makeup became an embodiment of self-expression, experimentation, and fearless individuality. This era embraced bright colors, dramatic eyeliner, and statement shadows, turning the eyes into a focal point of beauty.

Iconic 80s Eye Makeup Looks

Here are some of the most iconic 80s eye makeup looks that continue to inspire modern beauty trends:

1. The Power of Color:

Bright and Bold Shadow: The 80s embraced a rainbow of colors. Think vibrant blues, greens, purples, and even neon hues. These colors were often applied in a single shade across the entire lid or blended to create a more nuanced look.
Cut Crease: A defining feature of 80s eye makeup, the cut crease used a contrasting color to define the crease of the eyelid. This creates a dramatic, "lifted" effect that focuses attention on the eyes.
Glitter and Sparkle: No 80s look was complete without a touch of glitter. From shimmery shadows to chunky glitter, the 80s embraced sparkle as a way to add dimension and glamour.

2. The Power of Eyeliner:

Thick Black Liner: Liquid eyeliner was a must-have in the 80s. Winged eyeliner was heavily favored, creating a dramatic, elongated shape.
Double Eyeliner: This look involved applying a line of eyeliner along the upper lash line and another line just below the lower lash line. This created a bolder, more dramatic effect.
Colored Eyeliner: While black eyeliner was the most popular choice, 80s fashionistas also experimented with colored eyeliners. Blue, green, and purple liners added a pop of color to the eyes.

3. The Power of Mascara:

Thick Lashes: Mascara was used liberally in the 80s to achieve a dramatic, thick lash look. Multiple coats were often applied to create volume and length.
False Lashes: False lashes were a popular choice for special occasions and everyday looks. They added extra length and drama to the eyes.

4. The Power of Brows:

Bold Brows: Eyebrows were often shaped with an arched, dramatic look. Brow pencils and powders were used to create a bold, defined shape.

80s Eye Makeup Tutorials

Ready to recreate the iconic looks? Here are some step-by-step tutorials to help you achieve that 80s glam:

1. The Classic Neon Shadow Look:

Prep your eyes with primer.
Apply a light, shimmery shadow to the entire eyelid.
Use a bright neon shadow (like blue, green, or pink) to create a cut crease. Use a brush to blend the edges for a smooth line.
Use black liquid eyeliner to create a thick wing.
Apply several coats of mascara to your upper and lower lashes.

2. The Bold Eyeliner Look:

Apply a neutral eyeshadow to the entire eyelid.
Use a black liquid eyeliner to create a thick wing.
Apply another line of black eyeliner just below the lower lash line, connecting it to the upper wing.
Apply a thin layer of black eyeshadow to the lower lash line to soften the look.
Apply several coats of mascara to your upper and lower lashes.

3. The Glitter Glam Look:

Prep your eyes with primer.
Apply a light, shimmery shadow to the entire eyelid.
Use a glitter shadow in a coordinating color to the shimmery shade. It can also be applied in a subtle, ombre fashion across the eyelid.
Apply a fine line of black liquid eyeliner to the upper lash line.
Apply several coats of mascara to your upper and lower lashes.
Consider adding false lashes for extra drama.

80s Eye Makeup: Tips and Tricks

Prioritize High-Quality Products: The bold colors and dramatic effects of 80s eye makeup call for pigmented, long-lasting products.
Practice Makes Perfect: It takes time to perfect the techniques, so don't be afraid to experiment and practice!
Consider Your Skin Tone: The 80s embraced a wide range of colors, but some may suit your skin tone better than others. Experiment to find the shades that compliment you best.

FAQs

1. What is the best way to achieve a 80s cut crease?

To achieve a perfect cut crease, use a flat, angled brush to apply a contrasting color along the crease line. Use a blending brush to soften the edges and create a seamless transition between shades.

2. What are the best eyeshadow colors for 80s-inspired makeup?

80s eyeshadows embraced vibrant colors like blue, green, purple, pink, and even neon hues. Experiment with different colors to find what suits your style best.

3. How do I achieve a thick, bold lash look?

To get that thick, 80s lash look, apply several coats of mascara, focusing on the roots of the lashes. You can also use a lash curler to add lift and definition. False lashes are another option for extra drama.

Conclusion

80s eye makeup is a testament to the power of self-expression and individuality. By understanding the iconic looks and techniques of this decade, you can embrace the bold, colorful, and dramatic style that makes 80s eye makeup so captivating. Whether you choose to recreate the classic looks or put your own twist on them, remember to have fun with it!

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