80s Makeup Looks: Iconic Styles & Tutorials

The 1980s was a decade of bold fashion and even bolder makeup. From vibrant eyeshadows and dramatic liner to voluminous hair and bright blush, 80s makeup trends embraced an era of daring self-expression. Today, these iconic looks are experiencing a resurgence, inspiring modern beauty trends.

This article delves into the world of 80s makeup, exploring its most iconic styles, providing detailed tutorials, and uncovering the secrets behind these timeless looks. We'll also touch upon the cultural influences that shaped these trends and how to adapt them for a modern take.

Iconic 80s Makeup Looks: A Blast from the Past

The 80s makeup scene was a kaleidoscope of color and texture, defying conventional beauty standards of the time. Here are some of the most iconic styles that continue to influence modern trends:

1. The Power of Pastel: The "Miami Vice" Look

Inspired by the popular TV show "Miami Vice," this look embodies the era's love for bright colors and bold accents. It features:

Eyeshadow: Pastel hues like baby blue, pink, and lavender were applied heavily, often with a shimmery finish.
Eyeliner: Thin, black liquid liner was used to accentuate the eyes, with a dramatic wing for added drama.
Blush: A bright pink or peach blush was concentrated on the apples of the cheeks, adding a flush of color.
Lips: Nude lipsticks or lipglosses were preferred, keeping the focus on the eyes.

How to recreate the Miami Vice look:

Start with a light, hydrating foundation and concealer.
Apply a pastel eyeshadow, blending it outwards for a soft, diffused effect.
Use a black liquid liner to create a thin line along the upper lash line, extending it outwards to form a wing.
Apply a vibrant pink or peach blush to the apples of your cheeks, blending upwards towards your temples.
Finish with a nude lipstick or gloss for a subtle finish.

Pro Tip: Use a shimmery pastel eyeshadow for added dimension and to capture that 80s glam.

2. The Bold & Dramatic: The "Smoky Eye"

The smoky eye, a staple in 80s makeup, became synonymous with glamour and intensity. This look emphasized the eyes with dark, blended colors, creating a dramatic, alluring effect.

Eyeshadow: Black, gray, brown, or even purple eyeshadows were used to create a smoky haze around the eyes.
Eyeliner: Thick eyeliner, both black and colored, was used to line the eyes and create a dramatic effect.
Blush: A light blush was applied to the cheeks, balancing the intensity of the eye look.
Lips: Nude lipsticks or glosses were often paired with a smoky eye, allowing the eyes to take center stage.

Recreate the 80s Smoky Eye:

Apply a neutral eyeshadow primer to your lids, promoting long-lasting color.
Use a dark eyeshadow (black, grey, brown) to create a base on your eyelid.
Blend the dark eyeshadow outwards and upwards towards your crease, creating a smoky effect.
Use a lighter shade of eyeshadow (cream, beige) to highlight the inner corner of your eye and under your brow bone.
Line both your upper and lower lash lines with black eyeliner, building up intensity.
Apply a light blush to your cheeks for a subtle flush.
Finish with a nude lipstick or gloss.

Pro Tip: Use a soft blending brush to create a seamless, diffused effect with the eyeshadow.

3. The Neon Glow: The "Synthpop" Look

Synonymous with the vibrant energy of synthpop music, this look was all about electric colors and adventurous experimentation.

Eyeshadow: Vivid hues like blue, green, and purple were applied liberally to the eyelids, often with a shimmery finish.
Eyeliner: Colored eyeliner in complementary shades was used to accentuate the eyes, creating a dynamic, graphic look.
Blush: Bold pink or coral blush was applied generously to the cheeks, matching the vibrant eyeshadows.
Lips: Bright lipsticks in colors like red, orange, or even pink complemented the neon eye makeup.

Recreate the Synthpop Look:

Use a lightweight foundation and concealer to create a smooth base.
Apply a vibrant eyeshadow to your eyelid, blending it outwards and upwards.
Use a colored eyeliner in a complementary shade to line your upper lash line and create a wing.
Apply a bold pink or coral blush to your cheeks, blending it towards your temples.
Finish with a bright lipstick in a color that complements your eyeshadow.

Pro Tip: Don't be afraid to experiment with different color combinations to create your own unique Synthpop look.

4. The "New Wave" Look: Bold Eyeliner & Bright Lipstick

This iconic look embraced edgy, graphic elements, inspired by the New Wave music scene.

Eyeshadow: Eyeshadow was minimal, often using neutral tones or a subtle wash of color.
Eyeliner: Thick, dramatic eyeliner was the key feature of this look, often creating a bold cat-eye or a geometric design.
Blush: Subtle blush was used to enhance the natural contour of the cheekbones.
Lips: Bright red or fuchsia lipsticks were the statement element of this look, adding a pop of color and attitude.

Recreate the New Wave Look:

Start with a clean canvas, using a light foundation and concealer.
Choose a neutral eyeshadow to apply over your eyelids.
Use a thick liquid eyeliner to create a bold cat-eye or geometric design.
Use a subtle blush to define your cheekbones.
Finish with a bright red or fuchsia lipstick to complete the look.

Pro Tip: Use a steady hand and practice to achieve the desired eyeliner shape.

5. The "Punk Rock" Look: Grunge & Rebellion

Mirroring the rebellious spirit of punk rock, this look challenged conventional beauty standards.

Eyeshadow: Minimal eyeshadow, often with dark colors like black or gray, was used.
Eyeliner: Thick black eyeliner was applied to the upper lash line, creating a dramatic, edgy look.
Blush: Blush was often skipped, reflecting the punk rock desire for a raw, natural look.
Lips: Dark lipstick in shades of black, red, or purple was a signature feature of this look, adding an intense, rebellious vibe.

Recreate the Punk Rock Look:

Apply a light foundation and concealer to even out your skin tone.
Use a black eyeshadow to create a subtle smoky effect on your eyelids.
Apply a thick line of black eyeliner along your upper lash line, extending it outwards.
Skip blush or apply a very light touch of subtle pink for a natural flush.
Complete the look with a dark lipstick in shades of black, red, or purple.

Pro Tip: Use a lip liner to define the edges of your lips and prevent feathering, especially with darker shades.

80s Makeup Essentials: Tools & Products

To recreate these iconic looks, you'll need some essential products:

Foundation & Concealer: Opt for light-to-medium coverage formulas that allow your skin to breathe.
Powder: A translucent powder will help set your makeup and prevent shine.
Eyeshadow: A diverse palette of vibrant and neutral colors is essential for creating various looks.
Eyeliner: Choose a liquid or gel eyeliner for precise application and buildable intensity.
Blush: Opt for cream or powder formulas in vibrant pink, peach, or coral shades.
Lipstick: A collection of bright, bold lipsticks in red, pink, orange, and even darker shades like black or purple will allow for various expressions.
Brushes: Invest in high-quality brushes for blending and applying eyeshadow, eyeliner, and blush.
Mascara: Voluminous and lengthening mascaras were essential in the 80s, providing big, dramatic lashes.
Setting Spray: A setting spray will help lock in your makeup for a long-lasting look.

80s Makeup: A Modern Twist

While 80s makeup trends are experiencing a resurgence, it's essential to adapt them for a modern audience, embracing a lighter, more refined approach.

Focus on one statement feature: Choose a single feature to highlight: eyes or lips.
Modernize color choices: Swap out the neon hues for softer, more wearable shades.
Blending is key: Instead of harsh lines, focus on blending the edges of your makeup to create a more seamless look.
Mindful application: Apply makeup sparingly, focusing on balanced and proportionate features.

FAQ: Your 80s Makeup Questions Answered

1. How do I avoid looking overdone with 80s makeup?

Focus on one statement feature, like bold eyes or vibrant lipstick, and keep the rest of your makeup minimal. Blending is also crucial for a more modern, softer look.

2. What are some tips for modernizing 80s makeup?

Opt for softer, more wearable colors and focus on blending for a more seamless finish. Consider incorporating one statement feature like bold eyes or a vibrant lip.

3. Can I wear 80s makeup on a daily basis?

While some elements of 80s makeup can be incorporated into daily looks, it's best to tone down the intensity and embrace a more refined approach.

4. What hairstyles complement 80s makeup?

Voluminous hair, big curls, and crimped hair – all popular 80s hairstyles – create the perfect backdrop for bold 80s makeup.

Conclusion: Embrace the Boldness

The 80s witnessed a bold and daring approach to beauty, a time when self-expression was paramount. Today, 80s makeup trends are experiencing a revival, inspiring modern beauty enthusiasts to embrace the vibrant colors, dramatic contours, and bold accents that defined the decade.

By understanding the iconic styles, mastering the essential techniques, and applying a modern twist, you can recreate these iconic looks, embracing the spirit of self-expression and individuality that characterized the 80s.

Ready to explore the world of 80s makeup? Start finding your perfect look and let your inner 80s beauty shine!