The 80s was a decade of bold fashion, iconic beauty trends, and unforgettable prom moments. If you’re stepping into an 80s-inspired prom dress, you can elevate your look even further with the right hair and makeup. From voluminous hair to vibrant makeup, the 80s were all about making a statement. In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to perfect your hair and makeup for an iconic 80s prom look that will turn heads.
The 80s Hair: Big, Bold, and Beautiful
When it comes to 80s hair, bigger is definitely better. The key to perfecting your 80s prom look starts with volume, texture, and drama.
1. Voluminous Curls
One of the most iconic 80s hairstyles is big, voluminous curls. Think of Madonna, Cindy Lauper, and Whitney Houston—they all rocked voluminous, bouncy curls that framed their faces perfectly.
How to Achieve Voluminous Curls:
- Start by using a curling iron or rollers to create big, loose curls.
- For extra volume, use a root lifter or texturizing mousse at the roots.
- After curling, tease your hair gently to add height and fullness.
- Finish with hairspray to hold the curls in place without weighing them down.
2. Crimped Hair
Crimped hair was another major trend during the 80s, and it’s perfect for a retro-inspired prom look.
How to Get Crimped Hair:
- Use a crimping iron for defined, textured waves.
- For a softer crimp, braid your hair while it’s damp, then unbraid it after it dries for a natural crimped effect.
- You can mix crimped hair with other textures, like soft curls or a straight top, to create an interesting and dynamic style.
3. High Pouf or Teased Hair
The high pouf was a signature 80s look, seen in many of the era’s prom styles. This voluminous hairstyle adds drama and height.
Steps to Create the Pouf:
- Tease the top section of your hair with a fine-toothed comb to add volume.
- Gather the teased section and push it upward for a height boost.
- Secure with bobby pins and smooth the top layer with a comb.
- Finish with a strong-hold hairspray for the perfect volume.
The 80s Makeup: Bold Colors and Statement Looks
The 80s makeup style was vibrant, colorful, and dramatic. The goal was to stand out with bright shades and a little bit of sparkle. Here’s how to create the perfect 80s-inspired makeup for your prom night.
1. Bold Eyeshadow
The 80s were known for their bold, colorful eyeshadow choices. From neon pinks to electric blues, eyeshadow was a way to express yourself.
How to Do 80s-Inspired Eyeshadow:
- Choose bright, bold shades like electric blue, pink, or purple.
- Blend multiple colors together for a striking gradient effect.
- Add a little shimmer in the center of your eyelids for extra pop.
- Line your eyes with a black eyeliner, and be sure to wing it out at the corners for that retro cat-eye effect.
- Finish with a dramatic coat of mascara to really make your eyes stand out.
2. Bold Blush
80s makeup was all about having flushed cheeks that complemented the bold eyes. A strong blush added color to your face and helped create that youthful, vibrant look.
How to Apply 80s Blush:
- Use a bright pink or coral blush for a vibrant, youthful glow.
- Apply it generously on the apples of your cheeks, sweeping it upward toward your temples.
- Blend well, but don’t be afraid to leave it bold—80s blush wasn’t subtle!
3. Bright Lips
Matching your lips to your eyes was another hallmark of 80s makeup. Pair bright lip colors with your eyeshadow for a bold, cohesive look.
How to Rock 80s Lipstick:
- Choose bold lip colors like hot pink, red, or even purple.
- Line your lips with a lip liner that matches the lipstick for sharp, defined edges.
- Use a glossy finish or a satin lipstick for that 80s shine.
4. High Shine and Glitter
The 80s were all about high shine and sparkles, so don’t shy away from adding a little glitter to your look.
Adding Shine and Glitter:
- Apply highlighter on the high points of your face, such as your cheekbones, brow bone, and the bridge of your nose.
- Use shimmery eyeshadows to add sparkle to your lids.
- Glitter eyeliner or a bit of sparkle in your hair can also be a fun touch for an extra dramatic flair.
Final Touches: Adding Accessories
No 80s prom look is complete without the right accessories. To really pull everything together, add a few key pieces that capture the essence of the era.
1. Statement Earrings
Think oversized, colorful earrings. Choose earrings that complement the boldness of your makeup and hair. Hoop earrings, dangly beads, and rhinestones were all the rage in the 80s.
2. Sparkly Headbands and Hair Accessories
To match the voluminous hairstyles, opt for a glittery headband or a scrunchie in a bold color. Rhinestone or metallic hair accessories will add the perfect touch of glamour.
3. Layered Necklaces
80s fashion loved layers, so don’t hesitate to pile on the necklaces. Choose chunky, gold chains or multi-colored pieces that reflect the fun spirit of the time.
Conclusion
The 80s prom look is all about embracing boldness and having fun with your style. From voluminous hair to vibrant makeup, you can create a retro-inspired prom look that’s as glamorous as it is fun. By focusing on dramatic hair, bold eyeshadow, and bright lips, along with the right accessories, you’ll be ready to rock your 80s prom dress in the most unforgettable way. Remember, confidence is key—when you step out in your perfectly styled 80s look, you’ll surely be the star of the night!