Step Back In Time: 70s Makeup & Hair Trends You'll Love!
Ever wondered how the women of the 1970s achieved their iconic looks? The 1970s were a pivotal decade for beauty, a time when individuality reigned supreme, and makeup trends were as diverse as the music scene. From the radiant glow of natural skin to the bold drama of disco-inspired looks, the '70s offered a spectrum of styles that continue to inspire and influence today.
The era, marked by significant cultural and political shifts, witnessed a revolution within the beauty industry. This transformation produced some of the most enduring and versatile hairstyles and makeup techniques, challenging contemporary trends even today. One can't help but be captivated by the allure of a perfectly executed smoky eye, the sharp precision of winged eyeliner, or the playful vibrancy of colorful eyeshadowall signatures of this unforgettable decade. Hairstylists and makeup artists are rediscovering and reinterpreting these classic styles, breathing fresh life into the glamour of the past. This exploration of '70s beauty offers not only a glimpse into a fascinating era but also provides practical tips for incorporating these timeless looks into your own style.
To fully understand the impact of the 1970s beauty, let's explore the key trends, techniques, and icons that defined this unforgettable era.
One of the most significant trends of the 1970s was the emphasis on radiant, glowing skin. Makeup artists and stylists considered a naturally glowing complexion the perfect base for applying makeup. This approach, which celebrated the beauty of natural skin, was a departure from the more heavily made-up looks of previous decades. Those who embraced a more natural aesthetic often favored subtle enhancements, like a touch of lip gloss to add a hint of shine and prevent chapped lips. Even without heavy makeup, a woman could look captivating. The goal was to enhance one's natural features, not to completely transform them. It was a period where less often meant more, where the skin was allowed to breathe and its inherent beauty was celebrated.
The '70s makeup scene was remarkably diverse, reflecting the decade's spirit of self-expression. From the glittering eyeshadow and cut crease eyeliner of the disco era to the bold, bushy brows and bare skin looks that defined the natural beauty movement, there was something for everyone. The decade witnessed a fusion of styles, where individuality and creativity took precedence. The '70s allowed makeup artistry to become a form of personal expression. The evolution of makeup was as dynamic and vibrant as the fashion and music.
The impact of the 1970s extended beyond makeup; it also significantly shaped the hairstyle trends we see today. The hairstyles of the era continue to inspire, with styles like the center part making a strong comeback. Reminiscent of icons like Marsha Brady, this style offers versatility, working well with both straight, smooth locks and soft waves. The era introduced an array of iconic hairstyles, including curtain bangs and voluminous, layered cuts. The emphasis was on achieving a look that was both stylish and relatively easy to maintain, allowing women to express themselves confidently. These styles gave a fresh, modern twist to the hair industry.
Several beauty icons significantly influenced the makeup and hair trends of the 1970s. Celebrities like Cher, Farrah Fawcett, Diana Ross, Donna Summer, Jaclyn Smith, and many others epitomized the era's glamor, with each leaving a unique mark on the beauty landscape. Their choices helped shape the decade's trends, serving as constant sources of inspiration for both makeup artists and everyday women.
The 1970s were all about embracing individuality, and the diverse makeup styles of the decade reflected this perfectly. The era was a melting pot of aesthetics, where one could freely explore everything from natural and glowing looks to dramatic and bold statements.
Here's a look at some of the key elements of 1970s makeup:
- Glowing Skin: The foundation of many '70s looks was a focus on radiant skin, with makeup artists using highlighting techniques to create a natural glow.
- Smoky Eyes: The sultry vibes of the disco era were often captured through smoky eyes, blending rich, dark eyeshadows to create a mesmerizing effect.
- Winged Eyeliner: Sharp and precise winged eyeliner was a defining feature, adding a touch of drama and sophistication to the eyes.
- Bushy Brows: Eyebrows were often left more natural and full, reflecting the shift towards embracing one's features.
- Bold Lips: From subtle lip gloss to more vibrant colors, lips played a crucial role, with shades that complemented the overall look.
- Playful Eyeshadow: Colorful eyeshadows and playful techniques were a hallmark of the era, reflecting the music and fashion trends of the time.
The resurgence of the 1970s makeup trends is not just a fashion trend; it is a tribute to an era of self-expression, creativity, and enduring beauty. From smoky eyes to dramatic eyeliner, the '70s has been a source of inspiration. By embracing these iconic looks, you're not merely following a trend but also embracing a sense of individuality that continues to influence modern beauty standards.
Here is a table showcasing some of the iconic makeup looks from the 1970s, along with the products used to achieve them:
| Makeup Look | Key Features | Products to Achieve the Look |
|---|---|---|
| Disco Diva | Shimmery eyeshadow, defined crease, bold lashes | Glitter eyeshadows, black eyeliner, mascara, contour kit. |
| Natural Glow | Radiant skin, minimal makeup, lip gloss | Lightweight foundation or tinted moisturizer, blush, lip gloss. |
| Smoky Eye | Dark eyeshadows, blended and smoky effect | Dark eyeshadow palette, blending brushes, black eyeliner. |
| Winged Eyeliner | Sharp, defined winged eyeliner | Liquid eyeliner, eyeliner pencil. |
| Bushy Brows | Full, natural eyebrows | Eyebrow pencil or powder, eyebrow gel. |
The beauty and fashion of the 1970s are continually revived, offering inspiration and a fresh perspective to contemporary looks. The trends of this era are not just about recreating looks; they also offer a lens through which we can understand the evolving narratives of beauty, fashion, and self-expression. As the beauty industry continues to evolve, the '70s will undoubtedly remain a constant source of inspiration, reminding us of the power of self-expression, individuality, and timeless elegance.
