80S Makeup Tutorial

Introduction

The 1980s were an era of vibrant fashion, bold hairstyles, and iconic makeup trends. Makeup played a crucial role in defining the look of this decade, reflecting the bold and extravagant style that permeated every aspect of 80s culture. From exaggerated features to vibrant colors, 80s makeup was all about making a statement and embracing individuality.

Brief overview of the 1980s makeup trends

In the world of makeup during the 1980s, bigger was definitely better. The focus was on creating a flawless complexion with heavy foundation and contouring techniques that emphasized defined cheekbones and striking features. The popularity of bold eyeshadow colors like blues, purples, pinks, and greens allowed for endless creativity in eye makeup looks.

Thick winged eyeliner became an essential component for achieving dramatic eyes. When it came to eyebrows, the trend shifted from the thin arches of the preceding decades to thick and bushy brows that framed the face.

This iconic look was achieved through various techniques such as filling in sparse areas with eyebrow pencil or shadow. Additionally, lashes took center stage with false lashes being used to create volume and length while mascara was applied generously for fluttery lashes.

Another significant aspect of 80s makeup was lipstick choice—bold shades like bright reds, pinks, oranges, and purples were popular choices that added a pop of color to complete any look. Blush played an important role in creating a youthful rosy glow on the cheeks.

Importance of makeup in the 80s fashion scene

Makeup was considered an essential element in achieving a complete ’80s look; it served as an expression of personal style while also complementing various fashion trends prevalent at that time. The overall aesthetic during this era embraced excessiveness and glamour – more was definitely more.

The bold and vibrant makeup looks of the 80s perfectly complemented the exaggerated hairstyles, shoulder pads, bright colors, and flashy accessories that defined the fashion scene. The emphasis on makeup in the 80s fashion scene can be attributed to its transformative power.

It allowed individuals to experiment with their appearance and create entirely different personas. Whether it was trying out a smokey eye for a seductive allure or sporting neon-colored lips for an edgy punk look, makeup provided a means of self-expression and artistic exploration.

Moreover, makeup became a means of empowerment for women during this period. It allowed them to break free from the beauty norms of previous decades and embrace their individuality with confidence.

The flamboyant makeup trends of the 80s were not just about conforming to societal expectations but rather celebrating personal style and embracing diversity. 80s makeup trends were bold, extravagant, and iconic – reflecting both the spirit of the era and its influence on fashion as a whole.

From heavy foundation to eyeshadow in vibrant hues, thick eyebrows to full lashes, bright lipstick shades to rosy blush – each element played a vital role in creating distinct looks that defined this memorable decade. By understanding these key components of 80s makeup trends, you too can recreate these iconic styles with a modern twist!

Foundation and Base Makeup

Explanation of the Popular “Cakey” Foundation Look

In the glamorous era of the 1980s, one makeup trend that reigned supreme was the “cakey” foundation look. This style involved using a heavy foundation to achieve a flawlessly smooth complexion. The term “cakey” referred to the visibly thick layer of foundation that created an almost porcelain-like finish.

The goal was to have perfectly even skin tone and a flawless base for other makeup. To achieve this look, women in the ’80s would opt for full-coverage foundations, often with a matte or powdery finish.

These foundations were typically thicker in consistency than those used today. They provided excellent coverage, concealing any imperfections, blemishes, or discoloration on the skin.

Use of Heavy Foundation to Achieve Flawless Skin

The use of heavy foundation was crucial in achieving flawless skin in the ’80s makeup routine. Women would apply generous amounts of foundation across their entire face using either fingers or sponge applicators. The key was to ensure that every inch of skin had an even layer of foundation.

This technique aimed to create an airbrushed effect on the face by masking any unevenness or texture present on the skin’s surface. The heavy coverage served as a blank canvas upon which other makeup elements like vibrant eyeshadows and bold lip colors could stand out without any distractions.

Application Techniques for a Smooth Finish

To achieve a smooth finish with their foundation application, women in the 1980s followed specific techniques that allowed them to attain that coveted flawlessness. One popular method involved stippling or patting motions rather than rubbing or swiping when blending out the product. Stippling involved lightly tapping or patting small amounts of foundation onto the skin using a sponge or brush.

This technique ensured that the foundation adhered evenly to the skin without streaks or patches. Additionally, using a circular motion while blending helped to blend the product seamlessly into the skin, further enhancing its smoothness.

Contouring and Highlighting Techniques in the 80s

In addition to achieving a flawless complexion, contouring and highlighting were important techniques employed in 1980s makeup for creating dramatic cheekbones and defined features. These techniques allowed women to sculpt their faces by emphasizing shadows and bringing light to certain areas. The ’80s contouring involved using matte bronzers or darker foundation shades applied strategically beneath the cheekbones, along the jawline, and at the temples.

This created a more angular look and enhanced the natural bone structure of the face. Women would typically blend these darker shades carefully to avoid any harsh lines.

Furthermore, highlighting played an essential role in achieving a radiant and youthful glow on specific areas of the face. Shimmery highlighters were applied on top of cheekbones, down the bridge of the nose, on cupid’s bow (the area above upper lip), and sometimes even on brow bones.

This technique aimed to catch light in all the right places, giving an ethereal appearance with an added touch of glamour. By mastering these contouring and highlighting techniques, women in the 1980s could achieve striking facial features that became synonymous with this iconic era of makeup artistry.

III. Eye Makeup

Bold eyeshadow colors and application tips

In the vibrant world of 80s makeup, bold eyeshadow colors took center stage, allowing individuals to express their unique personalities with vivid hues. Shades such as electric blues, striking purples, vibrant pinks, and emerald greens were the go-to choices for creating eye-catching looks. These intense colors were often applied from lash line to brow bone, creating a dramatic visual impact.

To achieve a flawless application of bold eyeshadow colors, it is important to start with a well-prepped eyelid. Begin by applying an eyeshadow primer to ensure longevity and prevent creasing.

Next, choose your desired color palette and use an eyeshadow brush or sponge applicator to pack the pigments onto your lids gradually. Building up the color intensity in layers helps create a smooth and even finish.

Techniques for blending multiple colors seamlessly

Experimentation with multiple eyeshadow shades was at its peak during the 80s. Blending different colors together allowed individuals to achieve stunning gradient effects and unique combinations that elevated their overall look. To seamlessly blend multiple shades on your eyelids, start with a light transition shade that matches your skin tone or is slightly deeper.

Apply it above the crease using windshield wiper motions in back-and-forth movements. This will create a smooth transition between colors.

Next, apply your chosen bold shade onto the mobile lid using patting motions for maximum color payoff. Take another clean blending brush and softly blend the edges of this shade into the transition color previously applied above the crease.

Repeat this process if using additional shades for added dimension or depth on specific areas of your eyelids. Remember to blend well between each hue until they harmoniously merge together without any visible lines.

Eyeliner styles that defined the era

When it comes to 80s eye makeup, one cannot ignore the iconic eyeliner styles that left an indelible mark on the fashion scene. Thick, winged eyeliner was a prominent choice for those who wanted to achieve a bold and dramatic look that exuded confidence and flair.

To master this timeless technique, begin by selecting a high-quality liquid or gel eyeliner that provides precise control. Start at the inner corner of your upper lash line and draw a thin line as close to your lashes as possible.

As you move towards the outer corner, gradually thicken the line until you reach your desired thickness. The key feature of 80s eyeliner was the winged effect.

To create this captivating look, extend your liner slightly beyond the outer corner of your eye and angle it upwards towards the end of your eyebrow. This elongated flick gives an instant lift to your eyes while adding a touch of drama.

Tips on achieving symmetrical lines

Achieving symmetrical lines with eyeliner can be challenging but not impossible! To ensure both eyes match perfectly, it is crucial to take a step-by-step approach.

Start by lightly marking where you want your wings to end using small dots or dashes on each eye. Use these markings as guidelines when applying liner, making sure they align symmetrically with each other.

Remember to check regularly in a mirror while applying liner so you can adjust any imbalances or unevenness promptly. Consider using small pieces of tape or an angled brush dipped in makeup remover for precision corrections if needed.

Patience is key when aiming for symmetry; practice makes perfect! With time and practice, you will gain more confidence in achieving those flawless, evenly balanced wings that defined 80s eye makeup trends.

Eyebrows and Lashes

The iconic thick eyebrows of the ’80s

During the 1980s, bold eyebrows were all the rage and played a crucial role in creating the distinctive makeup look of the era. Women embraced thick, full brows as a way to frame their eyes and enhance their facial features.

To achieve this iconic look, many turned to various techniques to enhance their natural brows or create bolder shapes. Pencil-thin eyebrows were definitely out; instead, emphasis was placed on filling in sparse areas to achieve a more robust appearance.

Techniques for filling in sparse brows

For those with naturally thin or sparse eyebrows, there were several methods used in the ’80s to create fuller-looking brows. One popular technique involved using an eyebrow pencil that matched one’s natural hair color or was slightly darker. Soft, feather-like strokes were employed to mimic individual brow hairs, concentrating on filling in any gaps or areas that needed more definition.

Another method utilized an eyebrow powder or shadow applied with an angled brush for a softer effect. This technique allowed for better control over the application and enabled individuals to build up color gradually until achieving the desired fullness.

Tips on shaping brows to achieve a bold look

In addition to filling in sparse areas, shaping your brows properly was vital to achieving that bold ’80s look. Arching the eyebrows slightly higher than your natural arch was often preferred during this era for a more dramatic appearance.

This involved carefully tweezing stray hairs under the brow line while maintaining thickness at its fullest point. To further emphasize the shape and create definition, some opted for using clear or tinted brow gels that helped keep unruly hairs in place while adding extra depth and dimension.

Lash styles that made a statement

Alongside prominent brows, lashes also played a significant role in the ’80s makeup trends. False lashes were a staple accessory for many, providing instant volume and length to the natural lashes.

These falsies came in various styles, ranging from natural-looking to outrageously glamorous. Feathered or feathery lashes were particularly popular during this time, adding a touch of whimsy and allure to the eyes.

The use of false lashes to create volume and length

False lashes were used to amplify one’s natural lash line, giving the illusion of thicker and longer eyelashes. Applying false lashes involved carefully measuring them against your eye shape, trimming them if necessary, and applying lash glue along the band before gently pressing them onto your eyelid as close to your natural lash line as possible.

Mascara application techniques for full, fluttery lashes

For those who preferred not to use false lashes, mascara became a crucial tool in achieving luscious, fluttery eyelashes. It was common practice in the ’80s to apply several coats of mascara for maximum impact.

Wiggle the mascara wand at the base of your lashes before sweeping it upward for an even distribution of product. Repeat this step multiple times until desired volume is achieved.

To further enhance lash definition, some individuals would use an eyelash curler prior to applying mascara. This step helped lift and curl the lashes dramatically while creating an open-eyed effect.

During the 1980s, thick eyebrows and statement-making eyelashes were key elements of makeup looks that defined that era’s fashion trends. Techniques such as filling in sparse brows with pencils or powders allowed individuals to achieve fuller-looking eyebrows while shaping them into bold arches.

False lash application or multiple coats of mascara were employed to enhance eyelashes with extra length and volume. By embracing these iconic features associated with ’80s makeup trends, individuals could create eye-catching looks that truly made a statement.

Lipstick and Blush

Bold Lipstick Shades that Ruled the Decade

In the vibrant and audacious world of 80s makeup, lipstick played a crucial role in making a bold statement. Bright reds, pinks, oranges, and purples were the go-to shades that ruled the decade.

These colors were all about standing out and showcasing a confident attitude. Red lipstick, in particular, was seen as a symbol of power and femininity.

It was often paired with strong eye makeup for a striking look. Pink shades ranged from soft pastels to hot pinks while orange hues added warmth and vibrancy to the lips.

Purple lipsticks offered an edgy alternative for those who wanted to push boundaries. When choosing lipstick shades based on your skin tone, it’s important to consider undertones.

For fair skin with cool undertones, opt for bright pinks or blue-based reds that complement your complexion. Those with warm undertones can rock orange-based reds or coral shades for a flattering look.

Medium skin tones can experiment with both warm and cool tones; try rich berries or rosy pinks for an elegant touch. Deep skin tones can pull off deep berry colors or bold fuchsias effortlessly.

Blush Techniques for a Rosy Glow

To achieve that iconic 80s rosy glow on your cheeks, mastering blush application is key. Start by selecting a blush shade that complements your skin tone – soft pinks work well for fair complexions while deeper rose hues are perfect for medium to dark skin tones. For application, use a fluffy blush brush to gently sweep the product onto the apples of your cheeks in upward strokes towards your temples.

This technique helps create definition while adding a healthy flush of color. To intensify the 80s aesthetic further, you can apply blush not only to your cheeks but also to your temples and the bridge of your nose.

Blending is crucial to achieve a natural-looking flush, so ensure you blend the blush well into your skin for a seamless finish. Remember, less is more, so start with a light application and build up if necessary.

Conclusion

The 80s makeup trends were all about self-expression and embracing boldness. From vibrant lipstick shades that exuded confidence to rosy cheeks that added a touch of warmth, 80s makeup allowed individuals to play with color and make a striking statement. Despite the passage of time, these trends continue to inspire modern-day beauty looks.

Incorporating elements from the 80s into your makeup routine can be exciting and empowering. So why not experiment with vibrant lipsticks in those daring shades or embrace the rosy glow from blush techniques?

Try adding an 80s twist to your everyday look and let it unleash your inner confidence. Remember, makeup is not just about enhancing our features; it’s also an art form that allows us to express ourselves fearlessly in any era.