Makeup From The 1970s

Groovy, Baby! A Deep Dive into 1970s Makeup

The 1970s: a decade of disco balls, bell bottoms, and bold beauty. Forget the pale, demure looks of previous eras; the 70s embraced a vibrant, experimental approach to makeup, reflecting the era's spirit of freedom and self-expression. From the natural glow of the early years to the shimmering glamour of the disco era, 70s makeup offers a fascinating glimpse into the changing social landscape and the evolution of beauty standards. This article will explore the defining trends, iconic looks, and the science behind the products that shaped the decade's unique aesthetic.

The Evolution of 70s Makeup: A Decade of Transformations

The makeup of the 1970s wasn't a monolithic entity; it evolved significantly throughout the decade, mirroring the changing cultural currents.

Early 1970s: The Natural Look

The early 70s, influenced by the counter-culture movement, saw a shift towards a more natural look. Think less is more. Blush was applied subtly, creating a natural flush. This wasn't a complete rejection of makeup, but rather a move away from the heavily contoured and dramatic styles of the 60s. Eyeshadow palettes were generally subdued, with earthy tones like browns, greens, and peaches dominating. Brows were brushed upwards, creating a soft, unkempt frame for the eyes. But Barely-there foundations, often tinted moisturizers or sheer creams, were favored, emphasizing a healthy, radiant complexion. Lipsticks tended towards nude shades or soft berries, with a focus on a natural lip shape.

Mid-1970s: The Glam Rock Influence

By the mid-70s, the influence of glam rock stars like David Bowie and Roxy Music became undeniable. Blush became more pronounced, often applied higher on the cheekbones to create a lifted effect. Here's the thing — Metallic eyeshadows, especially gold and bronze, added a touch of extravagance. This period saw a resurgence of bolder makeup choices. Smoky eyes became a prominent trend, often using dark shades of brown, grey, or even black, smudged for a dramatic effect. And eyeliner, both liquid and pencil, was used liberally, creating winged or thick lines to enhance the eyes. False eyelashes added extra drama. Lipsticks ranged from nudes to rich, deep reds and browns.

Late 1970s: Disco Fever!

The late 70s were synonymous with disco, and this energy translated directly into makeup trends. Highlighters and glitter were used liberally to catch the light, creating a dazzling effect under the disco ball. Contouring made a comeback, although it was generally less severe than in previous decades. Eyeshadows were often applied in bolder, more vibrant colors, including purples, blues, and greens, often with a metallic finish. So naturally, Bold eyeliner remained popular, while dramatic lashes were essential. Shimmer and shine were key components. Lips were often accentuated with glossy, high-shine lipsticks in various shades, from bold reds to shimmering pinks.

The Products that Defined the Decade

The makeup products of the 70s differed significantly from modern formulations. Understanding these differences helps us appreciate the unique aesthetic of the era.

• Foundations: Creamy foundations and tinted moisturizers were the norm, offering lighter coverage than the heavier, matte foundations of today.
• Powder: Loose powder was often used to set the foundation and create a soft finish. Pressed powder was also available but less prevalent.
• Eyeshadow: Cream and powder eyeshadows were both popular. Cream shadows often provided more intense pigmentation.
• Eyeliner: Pencil and liquid eyeliners were both available, allowing for varied line thicknesses and effects.
• Mascara: Mascara was used to lengthen and darken lashes, contributing to the overall dramatic eye look.
• Blush: Cream and powder blushes were both popular choices. Cream blushes provided a more natural, dewy finish.
• Lipstick: A wide range of lipstick shades was available, from nudes to vibrant reds and browns. Glossy finishes were highly popular, particularly in the late 70s.

The Science Behind the 70s Look: Ingredients and Techniques

While modern makeup relies on advanced formulations and sophisticated ingredients, the 70s makeup achieved its iconic looks using simpler products. Understanding the ingredient lists of vintage makeup reveals a fascinating glimpse into the beauty science of the era.

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• Pigments: Mineral pigments, like iron oxides for browns and reds, were commonly used in eyeshadows and blushes. Synthetic pigments were also becoming increasingly prevalent.
• Binders: Waxes and oils served as the base for cream formulations, giving them a smooth, creamy texture.
• Preservatives: Preservatives in 70s makeup were often less sophisticated than today’s standards. This contributed to the shorter shelf life of many products.
• Application Techniques: The application techniques of the 70s were often more intuitive and less precise than modern techniques. The focus was often on achieving a soft, blended look rather than sharp lines and precise application.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Where can I find 70s-inspired makeup today?

A: Many modern makeup brands offer palettes and products inspired by the 70s aesthetic. Look for eyeshadow palettes with earthy tones, metallic shades, and vibrant colors. Glossy lipsticks and cream blushes are also key elements of the 70s look.

Q: Is it difficult to recreate 70s makeup looks?

A: The level of difficulty depends on the specific look. Some looks, such as the natural look of the early 70s, are relatively easy to recreate. More dramatic looks, such as the smoky eyes of the mid-70s or the glittery disco looks of the late 70s, may require a bit more practice and skill.

Q: What are some key differences between 70s makeup and modern makeup?

A: The most significant differences lie in the level of coverage, finish, and the emphasis on natural versus dramatic effects. 70s makeup often favored lighter coverage and a more natural, dewy finish, while modern makeup offers a wider range of coverage options, from sheer to full coverage, with various finishes, including matte, satin, and luminous.

Q: What tools were used to apply 70s makeup?

A: The tools were relatively simple. Sponges were used to apply foundation and blush. Because of that, brushes were used for eyeshadow and eyeliner. Fingertips were often used for blending and applying cream products.

Conclusion: More Than Just Makeup – A Reflection of the Era

The makeup of the 1970s wasn't just about cosmetics; it was a powerful form of self-expression, reflecting the era's social and cultural shifts. By understanding the trends, techniques, and products of this iconic decade, we can gain a deeper appreciation for the evolution of beauty and the lasting influence of the 70s on modern makeup trends. From the understated natural look to the glamorous disco styles, 70s makeup offers a unique window into the past, reminding us of the power of beauty to reflect individuality and societal changes. The groovy spirit of the 70s continues to inspire makeup artists and beauty enthusiasts today, proving that some styles, just like great music, are timeless.