Retro style makeup refers to makeup looks that are inspired by past eras, typically spanning from the 1920s to the 1980s. These styles are characterized by their distinct and iconic trends that defined the beauty standards of the time. Retro makeup is often associated with bold choices, such as strong eyeliner, vivid lipstick colors, and unique eyeshadow combinations. It is a celebration of past beauty trends, bringing them into the modern day with a nostalgic twist.
History and Background
The Evolution of Makeup Across Decades
Makeup has been used for centuries as a form of self-expression, beauty enhancement, and even social status. However, the concept of makeup as we know it began to take shape in the early 20th century.
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1920s: The Flapper Era
- The 1920s was an era of liberation for women, and makeup became a symbol of rebellion against traditional norms. The iconic look of the 1920s featured dark, smoky eyes, thin eyebrows, and deep red lipstick. This period saw the rise of the first commercial cosmetics brands, making makeup more accessible to the average woman.
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1930s: The Hollywood Glamour
- The 1930s were heavily influenced by Hollywood cinema. Women aspired to look like movie stars, leading to the popularity of soft, romantic makeup. The eyebrows became more arched, the eyeshadow was subtle, and the lips were still emphasized with deep, berry hues.
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1940s: The War-Time Beauty
- During World War II, makeup had to adapt to the constraints of rationing. Women focused on maintaining a polished appearance despite limited resources. Red lipstick became a patriotic symbol, and makeup was used to boost morale. The look was natural yet elegant, with a focus on practicality.
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1950s: The Post-War Boom
- The 1950s brought back the glam, with a focus on femininity and elegance. This era is best remembered for Marilyn Monroe's iconic look: bold red lips, winged eyeliner, and perfectly curled hair. Pastel eyeshadows and defined brows were also hallmarks of this period.
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1960s: The Mod Movement
- The 1960s were all about experimentation and breaking the mold. The mod look, popularized by models like Twiggy, featured exaggerated eye makeup, pale lips, and minimalistic use of color. The focus was on dramatic eyes with heavy mascara and eyeliner, creating a doll-like effect.
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1970s: The Hippie and Disco Influence
- The 1970s were a time of contrast in makeup styles. On one hand, the natural, earthy look of the hippie movement favored minimal makeup with soft, neutral tones. On the other hand, the disco scene embraced glitter, bold colors, and dramatic looks, with shiny lips and shimmering eyeshadow.
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1980s: The Power of Excess
- The 1980s were all about excess in every form. Makeup was no exception, with bold colors, strong contours, and vibrant eyeshadows. Bright pinks, blues, and purples dominated the palette, and everything from blush to eyeshadow was applied with a heavy hand. The '80s were about making a statement, and makeup was a key part of that expression.
Major Types of Vintage Style Makeup
1920s Makeup: The Flapper Look
Description
The 1920s makeup style is characterized by its dramatic and bold elements. The focus was on the eyes and lips, creating a contrast between pale skin and dark makeup. Women of this era used makeup to challenge the social norms and express their newfound freedom.
Materials and Colors
- Foundation: Ivory or very pale powder to create a matte, flawless complexion.
- Eyebrows: Thin, elongated, and often drawn on with a pencil.
- Eyes: Dark kohl eyeliner applied heavily around the eyes, with smoky black or brown eyeshadow.
- Lips: Deep red or wine-colored lipstick applied in a cupid's bow shape.
Price Range
- Foundation: $15 - $50
- Eyeliner: $10 - $40
- Lipstick: $10 - $30
1930s Makeup: The Hollywood Glamour
Description
The 1930s makeup look was softer and more refined compared to the 1920s. It was heavily influenced by the golden age of Hollywood, with an emphasis on a smooth, flawless complexion, delicate eyes, and beautifully shaped lips.
Materials and Colors
- Foundation: Cream or liquid foundation for a smooth finish.
- Eyebrows: More defined and slightly arched, filled in with a pencil.
- Eyes: Lighter eyeshadow in shades like peach or brown, with subtle eyeliner.
- Lips: Muted reds and berry tones, applied in a rounded shape.
Price Range
- Foundation: $20 - $60
- Eyebrow Pencil: $10 - $30
- Lipstick: $12 - $35
1940s Makeup: The War-Time Beauty
Description
The 1940s makeup style was practical yet elegant, reflecting the realities of wartime. Women focused on looking polished with minimal resources, often emphasizing natural beauty with subtle enhancements.
Materials and Colors
- Foundation: Light powder or cream foundation for a natural look.
- Eyebrows: Natural shape, lightly filled in with pencil.
- Eyes: Neutral eyeshadow with a thin line of eyeliner.
- Lips: Bright red lipstick, often worn as a morale booster.
Price Range
- Foundation: $18 - $50
- Lipstick: $10 - $30
- Eyeshadow: $10 - $25
1950s Makeup: The Marilyn Monroe Effect
Description
The 1950s were all about glamour and femininity. The makeup was bold yet sophisticated, with a focus on well-defined features. Marilyn Monroe's iconic look became the blueprint for the decade.
Materials and Colors
- Foundation: Full coverage foundation for a flawless finish.
- Eyebrows: Darkened and well-defined with a pencil.
- Eyes: Winged eyeliner with neutral or pastel eyeshadow.
- Lips: Bold red lipstick with a glossy finish.
Price Range
- Foundation: $25 - $70
- Eyeliner: $10 - $40
- Lipstick: $15 - $40
1960s Makeup: The Mod Look
Description
The 1960s makeup style was revolutionary, breaking away from the more traditional looks of the previous decades. The focus was on the eyes, with dramatic, doll-like makeup that became synonymous with the mod subculture.
Materials and Colors
- Foundation: Light and natural, with a matte finish.
- Eyebrows: Natural and lightly defined.
- Eyes: Heavy eyeliner, false eyelashes, and white or pastel eyeshadow.
- Lips: Pale pink or nude lipstick.
Price Range
- Foundation: $20 - $60
- Eyeliner: $10 - $35
- False Eyelashes: $5 - $20
- Lipstick: $12 - $30
1970s Makeup: The Hippie and Disco Blend
Description
The 1970s saw two distinct makeup trends. The hippie movement favored a natural, earth-toned look, while the disco era embraced bold, glittery makeup that was all about standing out on the dance floor.
Materials and Colors
- Foundation: Sheer and natural-looking.
- Eyebrows: Natural shape, lightly filled in.
- Eyes: Earth tones or glittery, bold colors depending on the style.
- Lips: Glossy nude or vibrant shades.
Price Range
- Foundation: $18 - $50
- Eyeshadow: $10 - $35
- Lip Gloss: $10 - $30
1980s Makeup: The Decade of Excess
Description
The 1980s makeup style was all about bold colors, strong contours, and a dramatic overall look. This decade was defined by its embrace of excess, with makeup being no exception.
Materials and Colors
- Foundation: Full coverage with a slightly dewy finish.
- Eyebrows: Thick and defined with pencil.
- Eyes: Bright, bold eyeshadow colors with heavy eyeliner.
- Lips: Bold colors like pink, red, or purple.
Price Range
- Foundation: $25 - $70
- Eyeshadow: $12 - $40
- Lipstick: $15 - $40
How to Choose a Vintage Style Makeup
Understanding Your Inspiration
When choosing a vintage style makeup, it's important to understand which era you are most inspired by. Each decade has its own distinct look, and your choice should reflect your personal style and the occasion.
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Research and Experimentation
- Start by researching the different makeup styles from each decade. Look at images of iconic women from those eras, such as flappers from the 1920s or disco queens from the 1970s. Experiment with different looks to see which one resonates with you the most.
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Consider Your Features
- Certain vintage makeup styles may complement your natural features better than others. For instance, if you have large eyes, the 1960s mod look might highlight them beautifully. If you have a fuller face, the contouring techniques of the 1980s could be flattering.
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Think About the Occasion
- The occasion can also dictate which vintage makeup style you choose. A glamorous 1950s look might be perfect for a formal event, while a natural 1970s look could be ideal for a casual day out.
Matching Your Skin Tone and Undertone
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Foundation and Base Makeup
- Choose a foundation that matches your skin tone and complements the vintage look you’re going for. For example, a matte, pale foundation works well for a 1920s flapper look, while a more natural finish is better for a 1970s style.
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Color Choices for Eyes and Lips
- Your skin undertone (warm, cool, or neutral) should guide your choice of colors for eyeshadow and lipstick. Warm undertones might pair well with the earthy tones of the 1970s, while cool undertones can shine with the bright, bold colors of the 1980s.
Materials and Budget Considerations
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Quality vs. Cost
- Vintage style makeup can be achieved with both high-end and budget-friendly products. It’s important to balance quality with cost, especially for key items like foundation and eyeliner, which form the base of your look.
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Recreating the Look on a Budget
- There are many affordable makeup brands that offer products perfect for recreating vintage styles. Drugstore brands often have excellent options for eyeliner, eyeshadow, and lipstick that don’t break the bank.
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Investing in Signature Pieces
- If you’re committed to a particular vintage look, it might be worth investing in signature pieces like a high-quality red lipstick for a 1950s look or a durable liquid eyeliner for a 1960s mod style.
Final Tips for a Flawless Vintage Look
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Practice Makes Perfect
- Vintage makeup looks often require practice, especially when it comes to techniques like winged eyeliner or perfecting a bold lip. Don’t be discouraged if it takes a few tries to get it right.
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Use Modern Tools
- While you’re aiming for a vintage look, modern makeup tools like beauty blenders, precise brushes, and setting sprays can help you achieve a flawless finish.
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Blend the Old with the New
- Feel free to mix vintage elements with modern trends to create a unique look that reflects your personal style. For example, pair a classic red lip with a contemporary dewy foundation.
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Maintain the Look
- Vintage makeup looks often require touch-ups, especially if you’re wearing them for an extended period. Carry key items like lipstick, powder, and eyeliner with you to maintain your look throughout the day or night.
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