Blue Eyeshadow 60s: Retro Makeup Tutorial
Blue Eyeshadow 60s: Retro Makeup Tutorial
Readers, have you ever wondered how to achieve that iconic, glamorous look of the 1960s? The era of miniskirts, mod fashion, and, of course, bold blue eyeshadow! It's a look that's both timeless and effortlessly chic, and it's making a major comeback in the world of beauty today. If you're ready to embrace your inner "Twiggy" and channel the spirit of the Swinging Sixties, then you've come to the right place.
We've delved deep into the world of 60s makeup, and we're ready to share our expert tips and tricks to help you recreate this classic look. From choosing the perfect shade of blue to applying it like a true professional, we've got everything you need to master the art of blue eyeshadow and step back in time. So, let's get started!
The History of Blue Eyeshadow
The use of blue eyeshadow can be traced back to ancient civilizations, with Egyptians and Romans using pigments derived from lapis lazuli and other minerals. However, it was during the 1960s that blue eyeshadow truly took center stage, thanks to the rise of pop culture and the influence of fashion icons like Twiggy and Edie Sedgwick.
The 1960s was a time of social and cultural upheaval, with a focus on youth, rebellion, and individuality. This spirit of change was reflected in fashion and beauty trends, with makeup becoming a powerful tool for self-expression.
Blue eyeshadow, with its bold and vibrant hue, perfectly encapsulated the spirit of the 60s, representing a departure from traditional makeup styles and a move towards a more experimental and playful approach. The use of blue eyeshadow in the 1960s was not limited to a specific shade or application technique.
The Rise of Twiggy
The rise of Twiggy, a British model with large eyes and a distinctive look, had a significant impact on the popularity of blue eyeshadow. Her iconic look, which often featured a dramatic application of sky-blue eyeshadow, became synonymous with the 60s aesthetic.
Twiggy's influence extended beyond the runway, inspiring women around the world to embrace the bold and playful use of blue eyeshadow. It became a signature look for the era, worn by both young and old, and it captured the essence of 60s youthfulness and individuality.
The Mod Look
The Mod movement, originating in London, also played a key role in popularizing blue eyeshadow. This subculture, characterized by its emphasis on music, fashion, and design, embraced vibrant colors and geometric shapes.
Mod fashion featured a vibrant color palette, with blue being a prominent choice. This influence carried over into makeup, where blue eyeshadow emerged as a key element of the Mod look, particularly in its application technique.
Key Elements of 60s Blue Eyeshadow
To truly capture the essence of 60s blue eyeshadow, there are several key elements to consider. Understanding these fundamental aspects will help you create a look that is both authentic and flattering.
Color Palette
The 60s blue eyeshadow color palette was characterized by vibrant, bold shades. While sky blue and turquoise were popular choices, other shades like cobalt blue, electric blue, and even lavender blue were also used.
The key was to choose a shade that complemented your skin tone and eye color. For example, lighter shades like sky blue or turquoise worked well for fair skin, while darker shades like cobalt or electric blue were more flattering on darker skin tones.
Application Technique
The application technique for 60s blue eyeshadow was all about creating a dramatic and bold look. The most common method was to apply the eyeshadow all over the eyelid, extending it out towards the crease and brow bone.
Some women would also use a lighter shade of blue on the brow bone or inner corner of the eye to create a more dimensional look. The key was to blend the eyeshadow smoothly and create a seamless transition from the eyelid to the surrounding skin.
Complementary Makeup
60s makeup was all about creating a cohesive and complementary look. To complement the blue eyeshadow, women would often wear a light, natural foundation, blush in soft pink or peach tones, and a bold black eyeliner.
The eyeliner would be applied along the lash line and extended out into a wing, creating a dramatic and elongated eye shape. The lips were often kept neutral with a sheer gloss or a pale lipstick, allowing the blue eyeshadow to take center stage.
How to Apply Blue Eyeshadow
Now that we've explored the key elements of 60s blue eyeshadow, let's dive into the step-by-step process of applying it. This tutorial will help you achieve a flawless look that will transport you back to the Swinging Sixties.
Step 1: Prep Your Skin
Start by prepping your skin with a good moisturizer and primer. This will help to create a smooth and even base for your makeup.
A primer will also help to prevent your eyeshadow from creasing and fading throughout the day, ensuring a long-lasting and flawless look.
Step 2: Apply Foundation and Concealer
Next, apply your foundation and concealer as usual. Choose a foundation that matches your skin tone and use concealer to cover any dark circles or blemishes.
You can use a brush, sponge, or your fingertips to apply the foundation and concealer, whichever you prefer.
Step 3: Define Your Brows
Before applying eyeshadow, take the time to define your brows. This will frame your face and make your eyes pop. Use brow powder, pencil, or gel to fill in any sparse areas and create a defined shape.
Choose a brow color that complements your hair color and brow hairs.
Step 4: Apply Eyeshadow Primer
Apply a thin layer of eyeshadow primer to your eyelids. This will help to create a smooth, even surface for your eyeshadow and prevent it from creasing.
You can use a brush or your fingertips to apply the primer.
Step 5: Apply Blue Eyeshadow
Now it's time for the star of the show: the blue eyeshadow! Choose a blue shade that complements your skin tone and eye color.
Use a flat eyeshadow brush to apply the blue eyeshadow all over your eyelid, extending it out towards the crease and brow bone. You can also try using a small eyeshadow brush to blend the edges of the eyeshadow for a softer look.
Step 6: Blend the Eyeshadow
Once you’ve applied the eyeshadow, use a fluffy blending brush to blend the edges and create a seamless transition from the eyeshadow to the surrounding skin.
Be sure to blend the eyeshadow thoroughly to avoid harsh lines and create a soft, diffused look.
Step 7: Apply Eyeliner
Use a black liquid eyeliner to define your lash line and create a dramatic wing. Start by applying the eyeliner to your upper lash line, extending it out towards the outer corner of your eye.
You can also use a small angled brush to create a more defined wing or even use a black kohl pencil for a softer look.
Step 8: Apply Mascara
Apply a couple of coats of black mascara to your upper and lower lashes. This will enhance the drama of your eye look and make your lashes appear fuller and longer.
Use a lash comb to separate your lashes and remove any clumps.
Step 9: Finish with Blush and Lipstick
To complete the 60s look, apply a light blush to the apples of your cheeks and a neutral lipstick to your lips. Choose a blush in a soft pink or peach tone and a lipstick that is sheer or pale.
Be sure to blend the blush smoothly to avoid harsh lines.
Tips for Choosing the Right Blue Eyeshadow
Choosing the right shade of blue eyeshadow can be a bit daunting, but don't worry, we've got you covered! Here are some tips to help you find the perfect blue for your eyes:
Blue Eyes
If you have blue eyes, you can wear just about any shade of blue. However, lighter shades like sky blue or turquoise will make your eyes appear brighter and more vibrant.
You can also try a darker shade of blue, like cobalt or electric blue, to create a dramatic and smoky look.
Green Eyes
If you have green eyes, try a shade of blue that complements your eye color, such as turquoise or teal. These shades will make your green eyes pop and create a stunning contrast.
Avoid shades of blue that are too close to your eye color, as these can make your eyes appear dull.
Brown Eyes
If you have brown eyes, you can wear almost any shade of blue. However, darker shades like cobalt or electric blue will make your brown eyes appear more intense and dramatic.
You can also try a lighter shade of blue, such as sky blue, to create a softer and more romantic look.
Hazel Eyes
If you have hazel eyes, you have the versatility to wear a wide range of blues.
Try a warm blue, like teal or sapphire, to bring out the green tones in your eyes.
You can also try a cool blue, like turquoise or baby blue, to make your eyes appear brighter and more vibrant.
FAQ
What are some other ways to use blue eyeshadow?
Besides the classic 60s look, blue eyeshadow can be used in many ways. You can try a more modern approach, such as using a blue eyeshadow as a liner or applying it to the crease to create a smoky eye. You can also try pairing blue eyeshadow with other colors like gold, silver, or black to create a unique and eye-catching look.
What are the best blue eyeshadow palettes for a 60s look?
There are many great blue eyeshadow palettes available that are perfect for creating a 60s look. Some popular options include the Urban Decay Naked3 Palette, the Anastasia Beverly Hills Modern Renaissance Palette, and the Too Faced Chocolate Bon Bons Palette.
These palettes contain a variety of blues, from light to dark, as well as other shades that can be used to create a complete and cohesive look.
What are some makeup trends that are inspired by the 60s?
Besides blue eyeshadow, there are many other makeup trends that are inspired by the 1960s. These include bold eyeliner, false eyelashes, and bright lipstick.
These trends are often seen on the runways and in magazines, and they are a great way to add a touch of retro flair to your modern makeup routine.
Conclusion
So, there you have it, readers! We've taken a deep dive into the world of blue eyeshadow and explored the iconic 60s look. With a few key tricks and a touch of confidence, you can easily recreate this timeless and glamorous style. Remember to embrace your individuality, have fun with your makeup, and let your inner "Twiggy" shine through!
If you're interested in exploring other retro makeup trends, be sure to check out our other articles on our website. And don't forget to follow us on social media for the latest makeup tips and inspiration. Happy experimenting!
