The 1980s were a decade of bold fashion statements, and eye makeup was no exception. From power pastels to dramatic smoky eyes, 80s makeup trends were all about making a statement. This guide dives deep into recreating the iconic looks, answering common questions, and offering tips to modernize the style for today's beauty enthusiasts.
What defined 80s eye makeup?
80s eye makeup was characterized by its vibrant colors, bold lines, and dramatic effects. Think bright eyeshadows in neon shades, heavy eyeliner, and lush, voluminous lashes. The overall effect was one of confidence and unapologetic boldness. Popular looks included:
- Power Pastels: Think bright blues, pinks, greens, and purples applied generously across the lid.
- Smoky Eyes: Often done in darker, more intense shades than modern interpretations, 80s smoky eyes extended far beyond the crease, creating a dramatic, almost theatrical effect.
- Bold Liner: Thick, winged eyeliner was a staple, often paired with a matching eyeshadow color for maximum impact.
- False Lashes: Long, full lashes were key to completing the look.
What eyeshadow colors were popular in the 80s?
The 80s embraced a wide array of eyeshadow colors, but some were more popular than others. Bright, almost neon shades were incredibly trendy. Think:
- Electric Blue: A vibrant, almost turquoise blue was a favorite.
- Hot Pink: A bold, fuchsia pink was another staple.
- Lime Green: A surprisingly popular choice that added a pop of color.
- Purple: Various shades of purple, from lavender to deep plum, were frequently seen.
- Teal: A striking shade that added a touch of drama.
Besides these vibrant hues, softer pastel shades were also used, especially for a more daytime look.
How can I recreate the 80s eye makeup look today?
While some aspects of 80s makeup might feel overly dramatic by today's standards, many elements can be adapted for a modern interpretation. Here's how:
- Start with a good base: Apply a primer to create a smooth canvas and ensure long-lasting wear.
- Choose your colors: Select eyeshadow colors that reflect your personal style. You can opt for the original neon shades for a truly authentic 80s look, or tone it down with softer, more muted versions of the popular colors.
- Apply eyeshadow: Use a flat brush to apply eyeshadow evenly across the lid, extending it slightly beyond the crease for a more dramatic effect. Consider using a blending brush to soften harsh lines.
- Define your eyes: Use liquid or gel eyeliner to create a thick, winged line. Experiment with different wing shapes and thicknesses to find what suits your eye shape.
- Add mascara and/or false lashes: Apply several coats of mascara to create volume and length. For a truly authentic 80s look, add a pair of full false lashes.
- Blend and contour: Blend the eyeshadow carefully to avoid harsh lines. You can also add contouring to define the cheekbones and create a more sculpted look.
What were the key differences between 80s day and night makeup looks?
The primary difference between 80s day and night makeup lay in the intensity. Daytime looks tended to be slightly more subtle, using lighter shades and less dramatic liner. Nighttime looks, however, fully embraced the bold colors and heavy eyeliner, often incorporating shimmering or metallic eyeshadows for extra glamour.
What tools and products did people use for 80s eye makeup?
The tools and products used in the 80s were somewhat different than what we use today. While many of the basic tools remained the same (brushes, sponges, etc.), the formulas and availability of certain products were quite different. Many brands offered intense, highly pigmented eyeshadows that were often shimmery or glittery.
How can I modernize the 80s eye makeup look?
To modernize the 80s eye makeup look, consider using more matte eyeshadows and softening the overall intensity. Instead of harsh lines, opt for subtle blending and gradient effects. A modern twist might involve incorporating a cut crease technique or using a smoky eye with more neutral shades. The key is to take inspiration from the 80s aesthetic while adapting it to contemporary beauty standards.
By understanding the key elements of 80s eye makeup and incorporating these tips, you can create a look that's both nostalgic and modern, capturing the essence of this iconic decade while making it your own. Remember, the 80s were all about bold self-expression – so have fun and experiment!
