The ’80s were a time of bold fashion, extravagant beauty looks, and unapologetic self-expression. From big shoulder pads to the high-energy vibes of Jazzercise, much of the decade’s style has been unfairly relegated to kitsch. But guess what? The ’80s are back, and they’re better than ever. This year, we’re seeing a resurgence of ’80s makeup trends, sparked by everything from the revival of rom-coms to synth-heavy pop music and the fun-loving party girl persona embodied by stars like Charli XCX. Icons like Sabrina Carpenter, Chappell Roan, and Kaia Gerber are channelling signature ’80s beauty looks, and it’s no surprise that these vintage trends are capturing our imaginations once again.
80s Makeup Trends
Get ready to unleash your inner diva because the ’80s makeup trends are all about vibrant colours, dramatic styles, and a whole lot of fun! First up, let’s talk about those bold, bright eyeshadow palettes. Think electric blues, hot pinks, and fiery oranges layered on the lids—perfect for making a statement at any party or casual outing. Then there’s the iconic cat-eye—winged eyeliner that could cut through the night; this look is all about that fierce attitude!
And don’t forget about cheeks that pack a punch! A swipe of bright blush on the apples of your cheeks is essential, giving you that glamorous flush reminiscent of the fabulous Britney Spears. Last but definitely not least, we can’t overlook the lip trends. Glossy lips in bold colours, from ruby reds to electrifying fuchsia, were all the rage. Whether you opt for a full-on glam look or a playful twist on these classics, emulating the exuberance of ’80s makeup is sure to turn heads and spark joy! So grab your brushes and get ready to glow like it’s 1985!
In this post, we’ll explore ten ’80s makeup ideas that have stood the test of time and show you how to wear them today. Get ready to be inspired by polished glam, hot pink lipstick, new romantic styles, soft matte skin, and vampy lips. Let’s jump into this time machine and bring those ’80s vibes back to life!
The Timeless Appeal of ’80s Makeup Trends
Bold Blush
Bold blush is making a major comeback this autumn. In the ’80s, blush wasn’t just an afterthought; it was the main event. Bright, exaggerated cheek colours defined the era’s beauty looks. Think Madonna’s flushed cheeks or Cyndi Lauper’s daring rouge.
Today, bold blush is all about creating that radiant, just-came-in-from-the-cold look. To nail this trend, use a highly pigmented blush and apply it generously over your cheekbones. Blend upwards towards the temples for a lifted effect. Opt for shades like fuchsia, coral, or even neon pink to really capture that ’80s spirit. It’s a sure-fire way to add a pop of colour and energy to your autumn makeup routine.
Hot Pink Lipstick
Nothing screams ’80s quite like hot pink lipstick. This shade was a staple in every makeup bag during the decade. Icons like Brooke Shields and Debbie Harry rocked pink pouts that turned heads and exuded confidence.
To bring this trend into the present, choose a hot pink shade that complements your skin tone. Whether you prefer a glossy finish or a matte look, hot pink lipstick is perfect for making a bold statement. Pair it with minimal eye makeup to keep the focus on your lips. This trend is not just about the colour but also about the attitude — wear it with confidence and a smile!
Polished Glam
The ’80s weren’t just about bold colours; there was also a touch of polished glam that emphasized sophistication. Celebrities like Grace Jones and Joan Collins showcased a blend of fierce and elegant makeup. This look is characterized by flawless skin, defined eyes, and a pop of lip colour.
To achieve polished glam, start with a smooth, even base. Use a high-coverage foundation and set it with a translucent powder for a matte finish. Focus on defining your eyes with eyeliner and mascara, and add a touch of shimmer on the lids. Complete the look with a classic red or berry lipstick. This trend is perfect for a night out or any occasion where you want to exude elegance and confidence.
New Romantics
The New Romantic movement of the ’80s brought with it a unique and artistic approach to makeup. This trend is all about ethereal, dreamlike beauty with a hint of drama. Think David Bowie’s Ziggy Stardust persona or Siouxsie Sioux’s iconic goth-glam look.
To create a New Romantic-inspired look, experiment with pastel eyeshadows, shimmering highlighters, and bold eyeliner. Don’t be afraid to play with shapes and lines — the more creative, the better. Finish with a soft, matte lip colour to balance the overall look. This trend allows for plenty of artistic freedom, so have fun and express your inner romantic!
Soft Matte Skin
While dewy skin has been all the rage in recent years, the ’80s were all about a soft matte finish. This look was popularized by supermodels like Linda Evangelista and Cindy Crawford, who showcased flawless, velvety complexions.
To achieve soft matte skin, start with a mattifying primer to control shine. Apply a matte foundation and set it with a powder to create a smooth, even base. Use a matte bronzer to add dimension to your face without any shimmer. This trend is great for those who prefer a more subdued, yet polished look. It’s all about looking effortlessly flawless.
Vampy Lips
Vampy lips were a defining feature of ’80s beauty. Dark, moody shades like deep burgundy, plum, and even black were popular choices for those who wanted to make a statement. Celebrities like Siouxsie Sioux and Cher embraced this trend, creating a bold and edgy look.
To rock vampy lips today, choose a dark lipstick that suits your skin tone. Pair it with neutral eye makeup to keep the focus on your lips. For added drama, use a lip liner to define the edges and prevent feathering. This trend is perfect for fall and winter, adding a touch of mystery and allure to your makeup routine.
Electric Eyeshadow
Electric eyeshadow is another ’80s makeup trend that’s making a comeback. Bold, vibrant colours like electric blue, neon green, and bright purple were all the rage. These eye-catching shades were often applied all over the lid for maximum impact.
To modernize this trend, choose one bold colour and apply it to your lids, blending well to soften the edges. You can also add a pop of electric colour to your lower lash line for a more subtle take. Pair with neutral lips to balance the look. Electric eyeshadow is perfect for adding a fun and playful element to your makeup.
Graphic Eyeliner
Graphic eyeliner was a hallmark of ’80s punk and new wave fashion. Sharp lines, winged tips, and geometric shapes defined this edgy trend. Artists like Boy George and Adam Ant pushed the boundaries of traditional eyeliner with their creative designs.
To incorporate graphic eyeliner into your look, start with a precise liquid liner. Experiment with different shapes and patterns, like extended wings, double lines, or even graphic dots. Keep the rest of your makeup simple to let your eyes take centre stage. This trend is perfect for those who love to experiment and make a bold statement.
Glossy Lips
Glossy lips were a staple of ’80s beauty, offering a shiny, luscious finish that complemented the decade’s love for all things bold and glamorous. Iconic figures like Madonna and Whitney Houston often sported glossy lips that caught the light and added a touch of sparkle to their looks.
To recreate this trend, choose a high-shine lip gloss in a shade that suits your style. Whether you prefer clear gloss for a natural look or a tinted gloss for added colour, glossy lips are perfect for achieving that ’80s-inspired, youthful glow. Pair with bold eye makeup for a truly nostalgic vibe.
Overlined Lips
Overlined lips were a defining feature of ’80s beauty, giving the appearance of fuller, more defined lips. Celebrities like Kylie Jenner brought this trend back in recent years, but it originated in the ’80s with stars like Naomi Campbell and Cindy Crawford.
To achieve overlined lips, use a lip liner one shade darker than your natural lip colour. Carefully outline just outside your natural lip line, then fill in with a matching lipstick or gloss. This technique creates the illusion of plumper lips and adds a touch of drama to your look. Overlined lips are perfect for those who want to enhance their pout and make a statement.
Metallic Accents
Metallic accents were a popular feature in ’80s makeup, adding a futuristic and glamorous touch to any look. Silver, gold, and bronze shades were often used to highlight the eyes, lips, and even cheeks. Stars like Grace Jones embraced metallic accents to create bold and unforgettable looks.
To incorporate metallic accents into your makeup, use metallic eyeshadows or highlighters to add a touch of shimmer to your eyes or cheekbones. You can also experiment with metallic lip colors for a more daring look. Metallic accents are perfect for adding a touch of glamour and sophistication to your makeup routine.
Bringing ’80s Makeup into the Modern Era
The resurgence of ’80s makeup trends is not just about nostalgia; it’s about celebrating boldness, creativity, and self-expression. These trends allow us to experiment with color, texture, and style in ways that are both fun and empowering.
Whether you’re channelling the polished glam of Grace Jones, the bold blush of Madonna, or the vampy lips of Siouxsie Sioux, there’s something for everyone in the world of ’80s makeup. These trends have stood the test of time because they encourage us to be confident and adventurous with our beauty choices.
Conclusion
The return of ’80s makeup trends offers a wonderful opportunity to revisit and reimagine the bold, creative looks of the past. From bold blush and hot pink lipstick to vampy lips and metallic accents, these trends are perfect for those who love to experiment and make a statement.
By incorporating these ’80s-inspired makeup ideas into your routine, you can add a touch of nostalgia and excitement to your beauty look. Remember, makeup is all about self-expression, so have fun with it and make it your own!
Ready to bring some ’80s flair to your makeup routine? Try out these trends and share your looks with us on social media. And if you’re looking for more inspiration and tips, don’t forget to book a call with one of our expert stylists. They can help you refine your style and choose the perfect makeup to suit your personality and preferences. Happy experimenting!
Explore More Iconic Styles
If the boldness of ’80s makeup has you feeling inspired, why not dive into another fabulous decade? The ’90s brought us iconic bombshell blowouts that are still absolutely swoon-worthy today! Want to learn how to master that effortlessly chic look? Check out this link for 8 Iconic ’90s Bombshell Blowouts and How to Nail Them. It’s the perfect way to add some volume and drama to your hair routine while keeping that playful vibe alive. Happy styling!
Explore More Inspiration
Want to dive deeper into the vibrant world of ’80s makeup? Check out these fabulous resources to fuel your creativity and help you nail those nostalgic looks:
- Beauty and Fashion Trends of the ’80s – A comprehensive breakdown of all the iconic styles that defined the decade.
- How to Master ’80s Makeup Techniques – Step-by-step guides for achieving those bold eyes and daring lips.
- Makeup Tutorials for Retro Vibes – Video tutorials that bring the ’80s glam right to your screen.
- Social Media Inspiration: ’80s Makeup on Instagram – Explore stunning makeup looks by other enthusiasts and get inspired to create your own!
Now go ahead, take a peek at these links, and let your imagination run wild—your perfect ’80s look is just a click away!
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