80s Makeup Goth: The Ultimate Guide To The Look

80s Goth Makeup: The Ultimate Guide to the Look

<strong>The 80s were a time of dramatic fashion and bold makeup styles, and Goth was no exception. This era saw the rise of a darker, more theatrical take on makeup, characterized by heavy eyeliner, bold lips, and dramatic shadows.

If you're fascinated by the iconic look of 80s Goth makeup and want to recreate it, this comprehensive guide will equip you with all the tips and tricks you need to master this classic look.

The Evolution of 80s Goth Makeup

The 80s Goth aesthetic emerged from the punk scene and was heavily influenced by the darker side of glam rock and horror movies. Early Goth makeup embraced a more theatrical approach, with heavily contoured faces, dramatic eye makeup, and bold, dark lips.

Key influences:

Glam rock: Bands like Kiss and Alice Cooper pushed the boundaries of makeup, using heavy eyeliner, glitter, and vibrant colors.
Horror movies: The iconic makeup in films like "The Exorcist" and "A Nightmare on Elm Street" inspired the darker, more dramatic elements of 80s Goth makeup.

The Essentials of 80s Goth Makeup

This section will delve into the key elements that define the 80s Goth look:

1. The Flawless Base

Start with clean, moisturized skin. Apply a primer to create a smooth canvas for your makeup.
Choose a foundation that matches your skin tone perfectly. Opt for a matte or semi-matte finish to avoid a shiny appearance.
Conceal any blemishes or imperfections. A creamy concealer is ideal for covering dark circles and blemishes.
Set your foundation with powder. This will help to create a long-lasting, matte finish and prevent your makeup from smudging.
Contour your face to add definition. Use a matte bronzer or contour powder to sculpt your cheekbones, jawline, and temples.

2. Eyeshadow: Dramatic and Smoky

Choose a dark, smoky eyeshadow palette. Popular colors include black, gray, purple, and deep brown.
Create a dramatic eye look by blending different shades of eyeshadow. Start with a light color in the crease, work your way into a darker shade in the outer corner, and blend everything out for a seamless transition.
Apply a shimmery eyeshadow to the center of your eyelids. This will add a touch of sparkle and dimension.
Use black eyeshadow to create a graphic liner. This will enhance the dramatic effect of your eye makeup.

3. Eyeliner: Thick and Bold

Apply a black liquid eyeliner to your upper lash line. Create a thick, winged liner for a dramatic look.
Use eyeliner to define the lower lash line. You can create a smoky effect by smudging the eyeliner with a brush or a cotton swab.
Apply eyeliner to your waterline. This will make your eyes appear larger and more dramatic.

4. Mascara: Voluminous and Black

Apply multiple coats of black mascara to your lashes. This will create a voluminous, dramatic look.
Use a lash curler to curl your lashes before applying mascara. This will make your lashes look longer and more defined.
Consider using false lashes for an extra dramatic effect.

5. Lips: Bold and Striking

Choose a dark lipstick in a matte or semi-matte finish. Popular colors include black, burgundy, deep red, and plum.
Line your lips with a lip liner to prevent feathering.
Apply lipstick with a lip brush for precise application.
Use a blotting tissue to remove any excess lipstick.

80s Goth Makeup Inspiration: Iconic Looks

The Cure's Robert Smith: Known for his dramatic makeup, Smith sported a pale complexion, thick black eyeliner, and bold, red lips.
The Sisters of Mercy's Andrew Eldritch: Eldritch's characteristic look included dark eyeshadow, thick eyeliner, and pale skin.
The Bauhaus's Peter Murphy: Murphy's dramatic makeup featured a heavy use of black eyeliner, dramatic eyeshadow, and a striking red lip.

80s Goth Fashion: Complementary Styles

80s Goth fashion was all about dark colors, leather, and statement pieces. Here are some key elements:

Black clothing: Black was the predominant color, with leather jackets, ripped jeans, and black dresses being staples.
Lace: Lace details added a touch of romanticism and mystery to Goth outfits.
Fishnets: Fishnet stockings were a popular choice for adding a edgy and rebellious touch.
Statement jewelry: Silver jewelry, including crosses, chains, and skull motifs, was essential for completing the Goth look.

Modern Interpretations of 80s Goth Makeup

While the original 80s Goth makeup look was bold and dramatic, there are modern interpretations that are more wearable and less extreme.

Subtle touches of black eyeliner: Add a hint of darkness to your eyes with a thin line of black eyeliner along your lash line.
Smoky eyes: A subtle smoky eye effect can be achieved with a blend of neutral eyeshadows in brown, gray, or black.
Dark red or plum lips: Choose a dark lipstick with a rich color for a sophisticated touch.

FAQ: 80s Goth Makeup Essentials

Q: What skin type is best suited for 80s Goth makeup?

A: 80s Goth makeup can work on any skin type, but it's important to use products that are formulated for your specific skin concerns. If you have oily skin, choose a matte foundation and powder to help control shine. If you have dry skin, use a moisturizing foundation and primer to prevent your makeup from looking cakey.

Q: Is 80s Goth makeup only for people with dark features?

A: Not at all! While dark features can certainly enhance the dramatic effects of 80s Goth makeup, anyone can embrace this look. Lighter complexions can use subtle eye shadow and liner techniques to add depth and dimension without appearing too goth.

Q: How can I create a modern take on 80s Goth makeup?

A: To achieve a modern twist on the 80s goth look, focus on creating a polished and refined effect. Choose a single bold element, such as a dark lip or smoky eye, and keep the rest of your makeup understated.

Conclusion

80s Goth makeup remains a timeless and iconic look that continues to inspire fashion and beauty trends. By incorporating the key elements of dramatic eyeliner, bold lips, and smoky eyeshadow, you can achieve a fierce and unforgettable look that embodies the spirit of the 80s Goth subculture.

Ready to channel your inner goth? Start experimenting with these tips and create your own unique 80s Goth makeup masterpiece! Don't forget to share your look on social media and tag #80sGothMakeup for a chance to be featured!

Video Giving Myself an 80s Goth Makeover