60S Makeup Tutorial

Introduction

The 1960s was undoubtedly an era of cultural revolution and social change. It was a time when youth culture emerged with a resounding voice, challenging established norms and redefining fashion and beauty trends.

From the mod fashion movement to the introduction of psychedelic prints, the impact of the 1960s on popular culture is unmatched. But perhaps one of the most enduring legacies of this transformative decade lies in its makeup trends.

Makeup played a pivotal role in defining the iconic look of the 60s. It became a form of self-expression that empowered individuals to break free from conventional beauty standards.

Bold, daring, and avant-garde were the keywords that shaped this era’s makeup philosophy. This was an era where women embraced their individuality, experimenting with vibrant colors, striking eyeliner techniques, and flawlessly contoured faces.

The 60s marked a shift towards youth-oriented aesthetics that celebrated freedom and rebellion against traditional beauty ideals. The influence of icons like Twiggy, Edie Sedgwick, and Brigitte Bardot cannot be underestimated when examining the impact they had on shaping beauty trends during this period.

Their unique styles served as inspiration for countless women who aspired to emulate their looks. From glamorous red-carpet events to everyday life, makeup became an essential tool for self-expression in the 60s.

It allowed individuals to play with their appearance while challenging societal norms surrounding femininity and beauty standards. Whether it was creating doe-eyed lashes or embracing bold lip colors, makeup empowered individuals to make a statement.

Prepping the Canvas: Skincare and Base Makeup

Emphasis on Flawless, Porcelain-like Complexion

In the 1960s, achieving a flawless complexion was at the forefront of every makeup routine. The desire for a porcelain-like look meant that skincare played a crucial role in creating the perfect canvas.

Women aimed to have smooth, even-toned skin that appeared poreless and youthful. To achieve this, regular cleansing with mild soap or cleansing creams was essential.

These products helped to remove excess oil and impurities while maintaining the skin’s natural moisture balance. Additionally, exfoliation played a pivotal role in achieving a smoother complexion.

Facial scrubs made from natural ingredients like oatmeal or ground almonds were popular choices to slough away dead skin cells gently. This process revealed fresh, radiant skin underneath and promoted cell turnover for an overall healthier appearance.

Popular Skincare Products and Routines of the Era

During the 60s, various skincare products were revered for their ability to enhance one’s beauty regimen. Cold creams were widely used as both cleansers and moisturizers due to their nourishing properties. They helped remove makeup effectively while keeping the skin hydrated.

Furthermore, toners gained popularity as they claimed to restore pH balance and tighten pores after cleansing. Witch hazel-based tonics were particularly favored during this era for their soothing effects on the skin.

Nighttime routines involved applying rich creams or facial oils known for their moisturizing properties. Prominent choices included rosehip oil or lanolin-based creams that enhanced hydration while minimizing signs of aging.

Foundation Application Techniques for Achieving a Smooth, Matte Finish

The foundation application techniques of the 60s aimed to create an immaculate base with a matte finish that would endure throughout the day—a quintessential aspect of achieving that desired 60s look. To start, the skin was meticulously prepped with a light moisturizer to create a smooth canvas. Then, foundation was applied sparingly, focusing on areas that needed coverage.

The goal was to enhance the complexion without appearing heavy or cakey. Women of the era often opted for mattifying foundations with velvety textures that helped control oiliness and reduce shine.

These foundations created a uniform base while providing a flawless appearance. For application, fingers or foundation brushes were commonly used.

Women would gently blend the product using upward and outward strokes to ensure an even distribution and seamless integration with their natural skin tone. This technique allowed for a natural-looking finish while offering adequate coverage for any imperfections.

By prioritizing skincare and employing foundation application techniques aimed at achieving a smooth matte finish, women in the 60s laid the groundwork for their iconic makeup looks. Creating this flawless canvas formed the basis for building upon other elements such as eyes, cheeks, and lips, allowing them to embrace the bold and vibrant trends of their time

The Eyes Have It: Eyebrows and Eyeshadow

Shaping eyebrows to achieve a defined arch or a natural, full look

When it comes to recreating the iconic 60s makeup look, perfectly shaped eyebrows play a crucial role in framing the eyes. In the 1960s, two main eyebrow styles were popular: the defined arch and the natural, full look.

To achieve the defined arch, start by plucking any stray hairs underneath and above the brow line using tweezers. Use an angled brush and brow powder or pencil that matches your hair color to fill in any sparse areas, following your natural arch shape.

Brush through your brows with a spoolie brush for a polished finish. For those aiming for a more natural, full brow look reminiscent of style icons like Audrey Hepburn or Twiggy, opt for less plucking and focus on enhancing your brows’ existing shape.

Use a spoolie brush to groom the hairs upwards and trim any excessively long hairs using small scissors. Then lightly fill in any gaps with an eyebrow pencil or powder that matches your hair color.

Iconic eyeshadow colors like pastels, blues, greens, and metallics

The 1960s were known for their adventurous approach to eyeshadow colors. Pastel shades like baby pink, soft lavender, mint green, and pale yellow were incredibly popular during this era.

These delicate hues complemented the iconic mod fashion trends of the time. Additionally, vibrant blues such as turquoise and sky blue became synonymous with this era’s makeup looks – evoking an eye-catching pop of color that reflected the spirit of youthful rebellion.

In addition to pastels and blues, greens also made their mark on 60s eyeshadow palettes – ranging from fresh mint tones to bold emeralds. These shades added depth and intrigue, particularly when paired with winged eyeliner and mascara.

Metallic eyeshadows were all the rage in the 60s, embracing the futuristic and space-inspired aesthetic of the era. Silver, gold, and platinum hues adorned eyelids, creating an ethereal glow that elevated any makeup look.

Techniques for creating dramatic cut creases or soft blended looks

The 1960s were notorious for dramatic eye makeup, with two standout techniques being cut creases and soft blended looks. To achieve a cut crease, start by applying a neutral eyeshadow shade over your entire lid as a base.

Then use a matte eyeshadow in a darker color to define the crease of your eyelid; this creates a distinct line separating the lid from the brow bone area. Blend out any harsh edges using a clean blending brush for a seamless transition between colors.

For those desiring softer eye makeup looks reminiscent of Brigitte Bardot or Jean Shrimpton, opt for blended eyeshadow application techniques. Begin by applying a light neutral shade all over your lid as a base color.

Next, choose one or two complementing shades from your desired color palette and apply them to different areas of your lid. Use gentle back-and-forth motions with an eyeshadow blending brush to seamlessly blend these shades together for an effortless gradient effect.

Whether you prefer sharp lines and defined shapes or soft transitions between colors on your eyelids, mastering these techniques will help you recreate the captivating eye makeup looks that defined the 60s era. Experimenting with different eyebrow shapes and iconic eyeshadow colors will allow you to channel the timeless allure of this transformative decade while adding your own personal touch to create stunning eye-catching results.

Winged Wonders: Eyeliner and Mascara

Mastering the Perfect Winged Eyeliner

Creating a flawless winged eyeliner was an essential skill in achieving the iconic 60s makeup look. Whether you prefer using liquid or gel liners, mastering this art requires patience and practice.

To begin, start by mapping out the desired wing shape with small dots or dashes along the upper lash line. This technique helps create symmetry and ensures both eyes match perfectly.

Once you have your guide, draw a thin line starting from the inner corner of the eye, gradually thickening it towards the outer corner. For a classic 60s look, extend the wing slightly upward and outward to elongate and lift the eyes.

Different Wing Styles Popular in the 60s

The ’60s were known for embracing various wing styles that added drama and allure to any makeup look. The classic wing featured a gently flicked line extending beyond the outer corner of the eye, creating an elegant cat-eye effect. Another popular style was the graphic wing, where bold geometric shapes were incorporated into eyeliner designs for avant-garde looks.

Additionally, some daring individuals experimented with double wings or exaggerated triangular wings for a futuristic vibe. The versatility of these styles allowed individuals to express their creativity while maintaining an aura of sophistication.

Tips for Achieving Symmetrical Wings on Both Eyes

Achieving symmetrical wings on both eyes can be challenging but not impossible with a few clever tricks up your sleeve! Start by ensuring that your eyebrows are even and symmetrical since they act as guides for liner placement.

Use small pieces of tape angled diagonally from your lower lash line toward your temples as stencils for drawing precise lines on both sides. This technique guarantees consistency in wing length and angle across both eyes.

Remember to step back and assess the overall look frequently, correcting any imbalances as needed. With practice, you’ll develop muscle memory and be able to achieve symmetrical wings effortlessly.

Enhancing Lashes with Volumizing Mascara or False Eyelashes

To complete the enchanting 60s eye look, enhancing lashes with volumizing mascara or false eyelashes is a must. Opt for mascaras that offer lengthening and volumizing properties to create the illusion of fuller, fluttery lashes.

Apply mascara by wiggling the wand at the base of your lashes and sweeping it upward in a zigzag motion. Layer multiple coats for a more dramatic effect.

For those seeking even more intensity, false eyelashes were widely embraced during this era. Choose styles that accentuate the outer corners of your eyes while blending seamlessly with your natural lashes.

Carefully apply lash glue and gently press them into place, ensuring they feel comfortable throughout wear. With these expert tips in mind, you’re well on your way to mastering winged eyeliner techniques and achieving luscious, captivating lashes reminiscent of the glamorous 60s era.

Experiment with different wing styles to find one that suits your unique features and personal style. Remember, confidence is key when recreating iconic makeup looks from the past; embrace your individuality while paying homage to this timeless era of beauty.

Rosy Cheeks: Blush and Contouring Techniques

Achieving a Youthful Flush with Pink or Peach Blushes

The 1960s were all about achieving a youthful and vibrant look, and nothing captures that essence better than rosy cheeks. Pink and peach blushes were the go-to shades during this era, as they added a natural flush to the skin without overpowering the other makeup elements. Opting for blush colors that mimicked a natural flush was key to achieving an authentic 60s makeup look.

Soft pink shades, such as rosy pinks or baby pinks, were particularly popular choices among women of the time. When applying blush in the 60s fashion, it was essential to focus on creating a soft, diffused look rather than harsh lines.

The placement technique most commonly used was applying the blush on the apples of the cheeks. This technique emphasized a youthful glow and gave the illusion of natural radiance from within.

Another technique known as draping involved sweeping blush up towards the temples for a more sculpted effect. Draping techniques were often seen on iconic figures like Twiggy or Brigitte Bardot.

Popular Blush Shades During the Era

While pink and peach tones dominated blush choices in the 1960s, there were specific shades that stood out as favorites among women during this period. Coral was one such shade that became synonymous with 60s makeup trends. Coral blushes added warmth to fair complexions while still maintaining a fresh appearance.

Baby pink shades were also highly sought after, providing a delicate touch of color perfect for those looking for subtlety. It’s important to note that while these particular shades reigned supreme during this era, individual preferences varied based on complexion and personal style choices.

Some women opted for slightly more vibrant options within these color families, such as brighter pinks or deeper peaches, to make a bolder statement. Ultimately, choosing a blush shade that complements your skin tone and desired level of vibrancy is key to recreating the iconic 60s look.

Contouring to Create Sculpted Cheekbones Using Bronzer or Matte Powders

To achieve the sculpted cheekbone effect so prevalent in the 1960s, contouring techniques were employed using bronzer or matte powders. Contouring involved creating shadows and depth along the hollows of the cheeks to enhance facial structure and bring definition to the face.

Matte powders in shades slightly darker than one’s natural skin tone were typically used for a more subtle effect. During this era, contouring was not as prominent or heavily emphasized as it is today.

The goal was to create slight shadows along the cheekbones while maintaining a natural appearance. Applying contour products with a light hand and blending well was crucial in achieving an authentic 60s-inspired look.

It’s important to keep in mind that subtlety was key during this period, focusing on enhancing one’s features rather than drastically altering them. Achieving rosy cheeks in 60s makeup involved using pink or peach blushes strategically placed on the apples of the cheeks or through draping techniques for a youthful flush.

Coral and baby pink shades were widely favored during this era but customization based on individual preferences was also common. To further enhance facial structure, subtle contouring techniques using bronzer or matte powders were employed to create sculpted cheekbones while maintaining a natural aesthetic.

Pout Perfect: Lips that Pop

The Iconic Lip Colors of the Decade

The 1960s were a time when lips made a bold statement. From vibrant reds to playful pinks, the lip colors of this era were truly iconic.

The classic red lip, reminiscent of the glamorous Hollywood starlets, was a staple for many women. Shades like fire-engine red and deep scarlet exuded confidence and sophistication.

Another popular choice was the baby pink or bubblegum pink lip, giving off an innocent and youthful vibe. Peachy nude shades also became popular, providing a more natural look that complemented the dramatic eye makeup trends.

Techniques for Achieving Perfectly Defined Lips

To achieve those perfect 60s lips, it all starts with precise application and shaping techniques. Use a lip liner in a matching shade to outline your lips, ensuring clean edges and preventing any feathering or bleeding of color. For that extra plump look, you can slightly overdraw your natural lip line by carefully extending it just outside your actual edges.

Once you have outlined your lips with precision, fill in with your chosen lipstick shade using either a brush or directly from the bullet for full coverage. If you desire an extra glossy finish, apply some clear gloss on top to give your pout that irresistible shine.

Finishing Touches: Adding Drama with Lip Accessories

To take your 60s-inspired lips to the next level, consider adding some accessories for added drama and flair. Lip sparkles or glitter were quite popular during this decade; delicately dab them on top of your lipstick to create a mesmerizing effect under light. Another fun accessory was incorporating lip decals or transfer tattoos onto your lips – think flowers, hearts or even butterflies!

These whimsical designs added an element of playfulness to any look. Remember to seal them in with a clear gloss or setting spray to ensure they stay put throughout the day.

Conclusion

As we delve into the captivating world of 60s makeup, it becomes clear that this era was nothing short of iconic. The vibrant lip colors and meticulous application techniques continue to inspire beauty enthusiasts even today.

The 60s allowed women to embrace their individuality, express themselves boldly through makeup, and redefine societal norms. So let us channel our inner retro divas and experiment with these timeless makeup trends.

Whether you opt for a classic red lip or prefer a more whimsical pink shade, the key is not only to replicate the looks of the era but also to make them your own. This is an opportunity for self-expression and embracing your unique beauty.

Remember, don’t be afraid to have fun, take risks, and let your lips do all the talking as you transport yourself back in time with 60s-inspired makeup. Embrace your inner bombshell and get ready to turn heads wherever you go!