Makeup trends from the 70s were bold, experimental, and full of personality. Today, many of these iconic looks are making a comeback, but with a modern twist. Whether you’re looking to add some vintage flair to your routine or want to understand how these trends have evolved, here are some classic 70s makeup trends that are back in style.
Bold Blue Eyeshadow
Blue eyeshadow was a signature look of the 70s, often applied all over the eyelid. It made a statement, and today, it’s back but with a softer, more blended finish. Instead of covering the whole lid, many prefer to use blue in the crease or as a pop of color on the lower lash line. This makes the look wearable for both day and night, offering a subtle nod to the past.
Fluffy Brows Are In Again
In the 70s, brows were left natural, fluffy, and full. Unlike the overly plucked brows of later decades, this look embraces the natural shape. Today, many are returning to this style by using brow gels to enhance their fullness without over-defining. This simple technique adds character to your face and brings out your natural beauty without much effort.
Earthy Tones for Eyeshadow
During the 70s, eyeshadow palettes featured warm, earthy tones like browns, oranges, and muted greens. These shades complement a wide range of skin tones and give a natural, sun-kissed appearance. Now, these earthy hues are being used again to create soft, everyday looks that blend seamlessly with modern minimalist styles. The timelessness of these shades makes them a go-to for anyone wanting a simple yet impactful look.
Feathered Lashes Are Back
Long, separated lashes were a staple in 70s makeup. Back then, women often layered on mascara or wore false lashes to achieve that flirty, feathered look. Today, the trend has been updated with new lash-enhancing mascaras that lengthen and separate the lashes without clumping. This gives a more refined and effortless feel while still maintaining the same dramatic effect.
Glowy, Dewy Skin
In the 70s, glowing skin was all about looking fresh and natural, almost like you just spent the day in the sun. This dewy complexion is back, but now we have products like highlighters and luminous foundations that make achieving it easier. A dewy finish is perfect for giving your skin a youthful, radiant glow without looking too heavy or cakey.
Shimmering, Glossy Lips
Glossy lips were everywhere in the 70s, often in peachy or pink tones. Today, glosses have improved formulas that provide shine without stickiness. Clear and nude glosses have made a big comeback, giving your lips a plump and healthy look. They pair well with bold eyes or can stand alone for a fresh, effortless appearance.
Sun-Kissed Bronzed Look
The sun-kissed, bronzed look was a defining feature of 70s makeup. Instead of heavy contouring, the focus was on using bronzer to warm up the complexion. Today, bronzer is used in a similar way, lightly applied to the high points of the face for a natural glow. It’s perfect for adding dimension to your face without looking too sculpted.
Pastel Eyeshadow
Soft pastel colors, especially in shades of lavender and pink, were popular in the 70s for creating soft, dreamy eye looks. These shades are back, especially for spring and summer makeup trends. Today’s versions are often applied with a more refined technique, blending the pastels with other shades to create a gradient effect. This brings the retro look into the modern era.
Graphic Eyeliner Returns
Graphic eyeliner was a huge trend in the 70s, with bold, creative shapes and winged designs. While the eyeliner shapes are still bold today, they’re often more wearable with thinner, cleaner lines. You can experiment with different designs, but many prefer subtle graphic touches, like double wings or floating liner, to make a statement without going overboard.
Muted Blush with Natural Tones
In the 70s, blush wasn’t about bright colors; it focused more on natural, muted tones that gave a subtle warmth to the cheeks. Today, we see a resurgence of this trend with peachy, nude blushes that enhance the skin’s natural flush. Applied lightly on the cheeks and blended well, this look provides a soft, fresh-faced appearance that works for everyday wear.
Tightlining for Defining Eyes
Tightlining, or applying eyeliner on the waterline, was a popular way to define the eyes in the 70s. This technique gives the illusion of thicker lashes and more defined eyes without needing heavy eyeliner. It’s making a comeback as a subtle way to enhance your eyes without looking overly made up. Plus, it’s great for both daytime and evening looks.
Metallic Eyeshadows for a Bold Finish
Metallic eyeshadows were all the rage in the 70s, especially in shades like gold, silver, and bronze. This trend has returned with modern formulas that are highly pigmented and easier to blend. Whether you want a soft metallic sheen or a bold, high-shine look, metallic eyeshadows today allow for both subtlety and drama, depending on how they’re applied.
Understated Nude Lips
In the 70s, nude lips were a common trend, often paired with dramatic eye makeup. This minimalist lip look has made a strong comeback, focusing on enhancing the natural lip color with subtle tones. Nowadays, nude lipsticks come in a wider variety of shades, making it easier to find one that complements your skin tone perfectly. Pair this look with bold eyes for balance.
False Freckles for a Youthful Look
Freckles, often considered a natural sign of sun-kissed skin, were embraced in the 70s. While not everyone has natural freckles, the trend of adding fake freckles with makeup has made a resurgence. It adds a youthful, playful touch to any look, especially during the summer months. Just dot a few freckles with an eyebrow pencil, and blend for a natural effect.
Glossy Eyelids for a Wet Look
Glossy eyelids were a bold 70s trend, and they’re back with a modern touch. By applying a clear gloss over eyeshadow, you can create a wet, dewy look that’s perfect for special events or photoshoots. This glossy finish adds a unique shine to your eyes, making them stand out without heavy makeup. It’s a quick way to elevate your look with minimal effort.
This article originally appeared on UnifyCosmos.
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