The 1980s were a decade of bold and unapologetic beauty, where makeup became a form of self-expression and creativity. From vibrant eyeshadows to bright lip colors and dramatic blush, 80s makeup left an indelible mark on the beauty world. What are the most iconic ‘80s makeup trends, you wonder? We’ve got you covered here today. Let’s get to it…
Curious about the hottest fashion trends of the ’80s? Check out: 15 Tubular ’80s Fashion Trends
Electric Eyeshadows
When you think of the ‘80s, no doubt you think of neon – neon clothes, and also, neon makeup – in particular, eyeshadows. Electric blues, pinks, purples, and greens took center stage. Names like “Electric Blue” and “Hot Pink” were common in makeup palettes. If you’re wanting to recreate an ‘80s look, this is definitely the first place to start.
Bold Brows
Natural brows were all the rage in the ‘80s – busy, bold, and beautiful. This look has since made a comeback in modern days, but we can thank the likes of Brooke Shields and Cindy Crawford for sporting these looks in the ‘80s.
Dramatic Eyeliner
The era gave rise to dramatic eyeliner styles, such as the cat-eye and smudged, kohl-rimmed eyes. Madonna’s winged eyeliner, for instance, became an iconic look. And who can forget the colorful eyeliner and mascara that dominated?
Contoured Cheeks
The 80s embraced dramatic cheek contours with heavy applications of blush. While today it’s all about that contoured look, the ‘80s were all about what is called “draping” or “color grow.” This technique created high, sculpted cheekbones and often featured shades of bright pink or coral.
Bright Lips
Bright and bold lip colors were a staple of ‘80s makeup. Shades like fiery reds, hot pinks, and vibrant oranges were like, totally, in. Celebrities like Debbie Harry and Joan Collins were known for their statement lips.
What’s your favorite of the ‘80s makeup trends? Let us know in the comments!
- Lancôme’s Dual Finish Foundation, released in 1981, featured a morphing texture that was ahead of its time: the compact could be applied wet, like a liquid base, or dry like a matte powder.
- In 1982, Estée Lauder launched Night Repair Complex — now Advanced Night Repair Complex — one of the first anti-aging serums.
- Rouge Pur Couture Lipstick in No. 19, a vivid magenta shade that debuted in 1979, really took off in the early ’80s. No. 19, with its almost balm-like texture, melts into skin and accentuates the fullness of the lips without overpowering them.
- One of the hottest makeup artists of the ‘80s was Phyllis Cohen, who did the makeup for David Bowie, Tina Turner, and Janet Jackson.
- Apparently, Madonna’s first makeup artist was Debi Mazar, who you may better know as an actress such as the ‘90s gem Empire Records.
- Lancôme’s Dual Finish Foundation, released in 1981, featured a morphing texture that was ahead of its time: the compact could be applied wet, like a liquid base, or dry like a matte powder.
- In 1982, Estée Lauder launched Night Repair Complex — now Advanced Night Repair Complex — one of the first anti-aging serums.
- Rouge Pur Couture Lipstick in No. 19, a vivid magenta shade that debuted in 1979, really took off in the early ’80s. No. 19, with its almost balm-like texture, melts into skin and accentuates the fullness of the lips without overpowering them.
- One of the hottest makeup artists of the ‘80s was Phyllis Cohen, who did the makeup for David Bowie, Tina Turner, and Janet Jackson.
- Apparently, Madonna’s first makeup artist was Debi Mazar, who you may better know as an actress such as the ‘90s gem Empire Records.
