80s Hair and Makeup: The Ultimate Retro Guide
80s Hair and Makeup: A Blast from the Past
Prepare to be transported back to the vibrant and audacious era of the 1980s, where hair and makeup were nothing short of iconic. From towering perms and bold eye makeup to glittery lip glosses and oversized jewelry, the 80s style was all about making a statement.
While some may recall the 80s with fond memories, others may cringe at the thought of the teased hair and garish colors. But one thing's for sure, the 80s left an undeniable mark on fashion and beauty, influencing trends to this day.
The Exuberance of the 80s
The 80s was characterized by a sense of exuberance and over-the-top style. Women sought to stand out from the crowd with their towering perms, sky-high heels, and bold makeup. Think Madonna's lace gloves, Cyndi Lauper's clashing colors, and Debbie Harry's iconic blonde bob.
The Target of 80s Hair and Makeup
The 80s hair and makeup were designed to reflect the time's optimism and love for individuality. It was an era where women embraced their creativity and experimented with different looks. The goal was to make a statement, whether it was through exaggerated hair volume, vibrant eye makeup, or an abundance of accessories.
Key Trends of 80s Hair and Makeup
- Big Hair: Perms and hairspray were the secret weapons to achieving the ultimate 80s hairdo. The bigger, the better, with volume to spare.
- Bold Eye Makeup: Blue, green, and purple eyeshadows were all the rage, along with thick eyeliner and mascara.
- Lip Color: Shades of pink, red, and coral were popular, often finished with a glossy or glittery lip gloss.
- Accessories: Oversized earrings, chunky necklaces, and colorful bracelets adorned the bodies of 80s fashionistas.
80s Hair: Bigger, Brighter, and Bouncier
The 1980s witnessed a hair revolution, characterized by volume, texture, and color. Teasing, blow-drying, and perming became commonplace, creating gravity-defying bouffants, shapely waves, and crimped styles. Whether it was Madonna's voluminous curls, Cher's feathered locks, or Bon Jovi's signature mullet, 80s hair was a statement of individuality and self-expression.
80s Makeup: Bold, Dramatic, and Glamorous
The 80s makeup philosophy embraced vibrant colors, shimmer, and contouring. Electric blue eyeshadows, fuchsia lipsticks, and glossy cheekbones created a vibrant and attention-grabbing look. Kohl-rimmed eyes, exaggerated eyeliner, and false eyelashes added to the drama, while blush and bronzer sculpted and defined facial features. The result was a bold and glamorous aesthetic that showcased individuality and confidence.
Crimped Hair: The Epitome of 80s Texture
Crimping became an iconic 80s hair trend, adding texture and dimension to flat styles. Using a crimping iron, hair was pressed into sharp, zig-zag crimps, creating a unique and eye-catching effect. Crimped hair was often paired with bangs, feathered layers, or a perm to enhance volume and movement.
Hairspray: The Secret Weapon for Volume
Hairspray was an indispensable tool in the 80s hair arsenal, providing hold and volume that defied gravity. Formulas infused with alcohol or polymers locked in styles, preventing frizz and keeping bouffants, perms, and crimps in place. The result was hair that stood tall, exuding confidence and attitude.
Feathered Bangs: A Signature 80s Style
Feathered bangs, characterized by their soft, layered, and textured appearance, became a staple of 80s hairstyles. They were often paired with voluminous bouffants, permed curls, or crimped locks, adding a touch of femininity and softness to the otherwise bold and structured styles.
Mullets: The Rock 'n' Roll Hairdo
Mullets, with their short, layered front and long, flowing back, personified the rock 'n' roll aesthetic of the 80s. Popularized by bands like Bon Jovi, Def Leppard, and Mötley Crüe, this haircut symbolized rebellion and a disregard for convention. Mullets were often styled with teased roots, permed ends, and a touch of hairspray for added volume.
Blue Eyeshadow: The Electric 80s Hue
Electric blue eyeshadow reigned supreme in the 80s makeup scene, adding a vibrant pop of color to eyes. This bold shade was often paired with dark eyeliner and mascara to create a dramatic and unforgettable look. Blue eyeshadow became synonymous with the era, symbolizing the carefree and experimental spirit of the time.
Contouring: Shaping and Defining
Contouring emerged as a makeup technique in the 80s, allowing for the sculpting and definition of facial features. Darker shades were applied to the hollows of the cheeks, sides of the nose, and jawline to create shadows and emphasize structure. Highlighter was then applied to the areas of the face that naturally catch light, such as the cheekbones, bridge of the nose, and brow bone. Contouring enhanced the natural shape of the face, adding depth and dimension.
Fuchsia Lipstick: A Statement of Boldness
Fuchsia lipstick became a symbol of the 80s femme fatale, exuding boldness, confidence, and a touch of rebelliousness. This vibrant shade was often paired with dark eyeliner and heavy mascara, creating a dramatic and unforgettable look. Fuchsia lipstick became a statement of self-expression, empowering women to embrace their uniqueness and individuality.
Glossy Cheeks: A Shimmering Touch
Glossy cheeks were a defining feature of 80s makeup, adding a touch of shimmer and radiance to the face. Blush was applied heavily to the apples of the cheeks and blended upwards to the temples, creating a lifted and youthful effect. Highlighter was often added to the cheekbones to further enhance the glow, giving the skin a healthy and radiant appearance.