80s Makeup: A Comprehensive Guide to Iconic Styles

Embracing the nostalgia of the 1980s, we delve into the captivating era of bold and enigmatic makeup looks. From the electric hues of neon eyeshadows to the signature pout of matte lipsticks, this guide will unveil the secrets of achieving iconic 80s makeup looks that will turn heads.

Historical Context and Evolution

The 1980s witnessed a transformative era in fashion and beauty, where the rise of MTV and pop culture icons popularized bold and expressive makeup styles. The 80s makeup aesthetic was characterized by:

• Vibrant Neon Colors: Electric blues, pinks, and greens adorned eyelids, creating a vibrant and unforgettable look.
• Defined Brows: Eyebrows were meticulously plucked, arched, and filled in, emphasizing their shape and framing the eyes.
• Dramatic Eyeshadow: Eyeshadows were applied in thick, blocky layers, often creating a gradient effect or blending multiple colors.
• Shimmer and Shine: Shimmering eyeshadows and iridescent highlighters were used to create a glamorous and disco-inspired look.
• Matte Lip Colors: Lips were painted in bold and matte shades, ranging from classic reds to daring oranges and purples.

Types of 80s Makeup Looks

The 80s makeup era encompassed a wide range of iconic looks, each with its own signature features:

• Punk Makeup: Dark, smoky eyes, bold eyeliner, and bright hair created a rebellious and edgy aesthetic.
• New Wave Makeup: Neon colors, geometric shapes, and exaggerated blush gave rise to a futuristic and experimental look.
• Preppy Makeup: Pastel eyeshadows, subtle blush, and glossy lips created a polished and refined appearance.
• Glam Rock Makeup: Shimmering eyeshadows, heavy eyeliner, and voluminous hair embodied the theatrical and flamboyant spirit of glam rock.
• Madonna Makeup: Bright red lipstick, dark eyeliner, and bleach blonde hair became synonymous with the iconic pop star.

Products and Tools for 80s Makeup Looks

To achieve the signature 80s makeup looks, it is essential to use the right products and tools:

• Bright Eyeshadows: Neon and pastel eyeshadows in a range of hues are a must-have.
• Bold Eyeliner: Pencils or liquid eyeliners in black or navy blue will create defined and impactful lines.
• Shimmer and Highlighter: Shimmering eyeshadows and iridescent highlighters add a touch of glamour.
• Matte Lipsticks: Long-lasting, matte lipsticks in vibrant shades are key to achieve the signature 80s pout.
• Angled Eyebrow Brush: Use an angled brush to define and shape eyebrows precisely.
• Blush Brush: A fluffy blush brush will help blend and contour cheekbones.

Step-by-Step Guide to 80s Makeup Looks

Follow these steps to create a classic 80s makeup look:

1. Prime Your Skin: Apply a primer to create a smooth and even base for your makeup.
2. Define Your Brows: Use an angled brow brush to fill in and shape your eyebrows.
3. Apply Bold Eyeshadow: Choose neon or pastel eyeshadows and apply them in thick, defined layers.
4. Create a Cat Eye: Use liquid eyeliner to create a sharp and dramatic cat eye flick.
5. Highlight Your Cheekbones: Apply blush to the apples of your cheeks and blend upwards to highlight your cheekbones.
6. Finish with Matte Lipstick: Choose a bold and matte lipstick shade and apply it to your lips.

Tips and Tricks for 80s Makeup Looks

• Embrace Unconventional Colors: Don't be afraid to experiment with bright and unconventional colors for eyeshadow and lipstick.
• Use Shimmer Sparingly: While shimmer can add glamour, use it sparingly to avoid an over-the-top look.
• Blush with Caution: Blush should be applied subtly to enhance cheekbones, not create a flush of color.
• Set Your Makeup: Use a setting spray to lock in your makeup and prevent it from smudging or fading.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overdoing Colors: While 80s makeup is known for bold colors, avoid using too many at once, as it can create a cluttered and overwhelming look.
• Applying Eyeshadow Messily: Use tape or a stencil to create sharp and precise eyeshadow lines, preventing smudging and creating a professional finish.
• Ignoring Skin Preparation: Always start with a clean and moisturized face to ensure your makeup looks flawless and lasts longer.
• Neglecting Eyebrows: Defined and shaped eyebrows frame the eyes and enhance the overall look.
• Forgetting to Set Makeup: A setting spray is essential to prevent makeup from fading or smudging throughout the day.

Pros and Cons of 80s Makeup Looks

Pros:

• Nostalgic and Iconic: Embracing 80s makeup looks invokes a sense of nostalgia and can instantly transport you back to the era.
• Bold and Expressive: 80s makeup allows you to express your creativity and individuality through vibrant colors and experimental styles.
• Versatile for Events: 80s makeup looks are suitable for various events, from costume parties to themed gatherings and even formal occasions.

Cons:

• Can Be Overwhelming: Bold colors and unconventional styles may not be suitable for all individuals or occasions.
• Not Always Practical: Some 80s makeup looks, such as heavy eyeshadow and matte lipstick, may not be the most practical for everyday wear.
• Difficult to Re-Create: Some 80s makeup looks require advanced techniques and products, making them challenging to re-create for beginners.

FAQs on 80s Makeup Looks

1. What are the key features of 80s makeup?
   - Neon colors, defined brows, dramatic eyeshadow, shimmer, and matte lipsticks.

   

2. What are some iconic 80s makeup looks?
   - Punk, New Wave, Preppy, Glam Rock, and Madonna makeup.

3. How can I create a classic 80s makeup look?
   - Prime skin, define brows, apply bold eyeshadow, create a cat eye, highlight cheekbones, and finish with matte lipstick.

4. What are some common mistakes to avoid when doing 80s makeup?
   - Overdoing colors, applying eyeshadow messily, ignoring skin preparation, neglecting eyebrows, and forgetting to set makeup.

   

5. Is 80s makeup suitable for everyday wear?
   - While some 80s makeup looks may not be practical for everyday wear, certain elements, such as defined eyebrows and bold lipstick, can be incorporated into more subtle looks.

6. What are some tips for creating a flawless 80s makeup look?
   - Use bright and unconventional colors, apply shimmer sparingly, blush with caution, and set your makeup with a setting spray.

7. What are the pros and cons of 80s makeup looks?
   - Pros: Nostalgic, bold, and versatile; Cons: Can be overwhelming, not always practical, and difficult to re-create.

Tables

Table 1: Key Products and Tools for 80s Makeup Looks

Table 2: Dos and Don'ts of 80s Makeup Looks