The 1980s were a bold era for makeup, defined by vibrant colors, dramatic shapes, and fearless experimentation. From neon eyeshadows to frosted lips and strong blush, achieving an authentic 1980s look requires the right products. Choosing high-quality, era-appropriate products ensures your makeup not only looks retro but also lasts throughout the day. Here’s a guide on how to spot the best products for recreating iconic 1980s makeup.
Understanding the Key 1980s Makeup Trends
Before selecting products, it’s essential to understand the defining features of 1980s makeup:
- Bold eyes: Bright neon shadows, thick winged eyeliner, and heavy mascara.
- Frosted finishes: Shimmering eyeshadows and metallic lip glosses.
- Statement lips: Strong, vibrant colors like red, fuchsia, and purple.
- Exaggerated blush: Bold pinks and corals applied to cheekbones and temples.
Knowing these trends helps you identify the types of products that will deliver an authentic 1980s effect.
Look for Highly Pigmented Eyeshadows
Eyes were the centerpiece of 1980s makeup:
- Neon and bright shades: Opt for eyeshadows with vivid pigments that pop on the lid.
- Blendable formula: While bold, colors should be easy to layer and blend for smooth transitions.
- Long-lasting wear: Choose shadows that maintain color intensity without creasing.
Highly pigmented eyeshadows are essential for recreating eye-catching, era-accurate looks.
Choose Statement Eyeliners and Mascaras
Liner and mascara defined 1980s eyes:
- Eyeliner: Select waterproof or long-wear pencils and liquids for thick, dramatic lines.
- Mascara: Go for volumizing and lengthening formulas to achieve wide-eyed, bold lashes.
- Colors: Black was standard, but fun colors like blue or green enhance authentic 1980s vibes.
Strong eye products ensure your makeup retains the decade’s dramatic flair.
Opt for Frosted and Shimmery Lip Products
Glossy, frosted lips were a 1980s staple:
- Lip glosses: Look for high-shine formulas that reflect light for a bold effect.
- Lipsticks: Creamy, vibrant shades in fuchsia, red, or purple recreate vintage looks.
- Longevity: Choose long-wearing formulas to prevent smudging or fading.
Frosted lips add the finishing touch to any authentic 1980s style.
Pick Bold Blushes for Expressive Cheeks
Cheeks were emphasized with color:
- Bright shades: Pinks, corals, and sometimes reds capture the decade’s aesthetic.
- Cream or powder formulas: Cream blushes mimic the dewy finish popular in the 1980s, while powders allow for precise application.
- Blendable texture: Easy blending ensures a natural lift and avoids patchiness.
Bold blush helps sculpt the face while reflecting the playful, experimental spirit of the era.
Consider Skin-Friendly Foundations and Primers
A strong base ensures makeup looks polished:
- Primer: Smooths skin texture and prolongs makeup wear.
- Foundation: Lightweight to medium coverage maintains natural skin visibility while supporting bold features.
- Setting products: Translucent powders or setting sprays help makeup stay put under neon shadows and vibrant blush.
Healthy skin with a stable base allows 1980s products to perform at their best.
Check for Authentic Vintage or Retro-Inspired Products
For an authentic feel:
- Vintage lines: Original 1980s products, if available, capture textures and shades accurately.
- Retro collections: Many brands release 1980s-inspired palettes and kits designed for authenticity.
- Quality control: Ensure products are safe, non-expired, and compatible with modern skin care standards.
Authentic or inspired products make it easier to recreate the iconic 1980s look accurately.
Final Thoughts
Spotting the best products for 1980s makeup involves understanding the era’s defining trends, selecting high-pigment eyeshadows, bold liners, frosted lips, and expressive blushes, and ensuring your base products provide a smooth canvas. By choosing products that align with these criteria—whether vintage or modern retro-inspired—you can confidently recreate the vibrant, fearless makeup looks of the 1980s. The right products not only capture the decade’s essence but also ensure your makeup lasts, shines, and stays true to its bold, iconic spirit.