Makeup trends have a way of cycling back, and many iconic looks from the past are making a huge comeback today. These styles not only celebrate timeless beauty but also reflect modern twists on classic techniques. Here are 18 iconic makeup looks from the past that are taking over today.
Bold Red Lips
Bold red lips never go out of style. This classic look, which dates back to the 1940s, is still a go-to for those looking to make a statement. Red lipstick instantly elevates any look and works for all skin tones. Today, many opt for long-wearing, matte versions to keep that iconic pout flawless all day.
Winged Eyeliner
The cat-eye or winged eyeliner has been a staple since the 1950s. This look is both timeless and versatile, adding instant drama to the eyes. While it originally featured a sharp, defined wing, today’s version ranges from subtle flicks to bold, extended lines. It’s a simple yet effective way to make your eyes pop.
Natural, Dewy Skin
Glowing, dewy skin was a defining feature of makeup looks from the 1970s, and it’s back in full force today. The modern take emphasizes skincare, with lightweight foundations, tinted moisturizers, and highlighters creating that fresh, radiant look. It’s all about achieving a healthy, natural glow without heavy products.
Glossy Lips
Glossy lips were a huge hit in the 1990s, and now they’re trending again. High-shine lip glosses are being layered over lipsticks or worn alone to give a youthful, juicy look. Today’s formulas are less sticky than the ’90s versions, providing comfortable wear while still offering that reflective finish.
Thin Eyebrows
Thin eyebrows were all the rage in the 1990s, and they’re making a surprising comeback. While bold, bushy brows have dominated in recent years, many are now opting for a sleeker, thinner shape. However, the modern take is more refined, with soft arches and a natural finish, rather than the over-plucked looks of the past.
Smokey Eyes
The dramatic smokey eye, which gained popularity in the 2000s, remains a favorite today. The modern version tends to blend more seamlessly, with soft edges and a mix of neutral tones. Smokey eyes are perfect for evening looks, adding depth and intensity to any makeup routine.
Graphic Eyeliner
Graphic eyeliner was a bold trend in the 1960s and is having a moment once again. This look takes eyeliner beyond the basic cat-eye, experimenting with geometric shapes, lines, and designs around the eye. It’s a great way to add a creative, artistic element to your makeup while embracing a retro vibe.
Heavy Contouring
Contouring as we know it today was made famous by beauty icons like Kim Kardashian, but the trend actually traces back to the 1980s. Back then, makeup artists used contouring to enhance bone structure for photoshoots and stage performances. Today’s version is more refined, with lighter, more blendable formulas that still give that sculpted look.
Bushy Brows
While thin brows are creeping back, thick, bushy brows that defined the 1980s are still going strong. Full brows give a youthful, bold appearance, and many are enhancing their natural brows with brow gels and pencils. The focus is on a natural, fluffy texture rather than overly structured arches.
Soft Pink Blush
Soft, rosy cheeks were a defining feature of makeup in the 1950s, and they’re making a gentle comeback today. Pink blushes are used to add a youthful, healthy flush to the skin, with cream blushes being the modern go-to. These products blend seamlessly into the skin, giving a natural glow that mimics the look of being slightly flushed.
Glitter Eyeshadow
Glitter eyeshadow was a massive trend in the 1970s disco era, and it’s once again becoming a go-to for party makeup. Today’s glitter shadows are more finely milled, making them easier to apply and wear. Whether you’re going for a subtle shimmer or full-on sparkle, glitter eyeshadow adds fun and glamour to any look.
Metallic Lips
Metallic lips were a signature look of the 1990s and early 2000s, and they’re back in a big way. Shimmery, high-shine lipsticks are making their return, offering a futuristic edge to traditional lipstick shades. Paired with minimal eye makeup, metallic lips can give a bold, fashion-forward statement.
Defined Crease
The defined crease, made popular by icons like Twiggy in the 1960s, is a timeless look that emphasizes the natural shape of the eye. This technique uses eyeshadow or liner to create a sharp, bold line in the crease, giving the eyes more definition and drama. Today, makeup artists soften the edges for a more modern, wearable twist.
Overlined Lips
Overlining lips, famously worn by ’90s supermodels, is making its comeback in the makeup world today. Using lip liner just outside the natural lip line creates the illusion of fuller lips without the need for fillers. Pairing this technique with neutral or nude lipsticks gives a naturally enhanced pout.
Blue Eyeshadow
Bold blue eyeshadow was an iconic look in the 1980s, and it’s experiencing a revival. Whether applied as a wash of color across the lids or used as a graphic accent, blue shadow adds a playful, retro vibe to any makeup look. Today’s formulas are more refined and blendable, allowing for a wide range of looks from subtle to dramatic.
Matte Foundation
Matte foundation was a hallmark of the 1990s, offering a flawless, shine-free finish. The modern version focuses on lightweight formulas that provide coverage without feeling heavy or cakey. Matte skin looks smooth and polished, making it perfect for those who prefer a more refined, long-lasting makeup look.
Full Lashes
Full, voluminous lashes have always been in style, but today’s false lashes and mascaras take it to the next level. Thick, bold lashes, popular in the 1960s, are trending again with modern mascaras that add length and volume without clumping. Lash extensions and falsies are also popular options for achieving that full-lash look without the need for layers of mascara.
Monochromatic Makeup
Monochromatic makeup, where the same shade is used on the eyes, cheeks, and lips, was a major trend in the 1970s. This look creates a cohesive, polished appearance with minimal effort. Today, monochromatic looks are back in style, with soft pinks, peaches, and bronzes dominating for an easy, fresh-faced vibe.
This article originally appeared on UnifyCosmos.
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