70s Eye Makeup: 27 Groovy Ideas to Rock Retro Glam
The 1970s was an era marked by bold fashion choices and experimental makeup styles, particularly when it came to eye makeup. From the disco fever to the free-spirited hippie movement, the decade offered a plethora of looks that have become timeless. This article dives deep into the iconic 70s eye makeup, with a focus on some standout examples. Let’s explore these fabulous looks and draw inspiration for our modern-day makeup routine.
Glamorous White and Black Contrast
This look captures the essence of the 1970s with its dramatic, contrasting black and white eye makeup. The bold use of white eyeliner to outline the black eyeshadow creates a striking effect, reminiscent of disco glamour. The model’s heavily defined eyes, paired with a classic white headband, evoke the simplicity and boldness of 1970s eye makeup. This look is perfect for a disco party or an Abba tribute night.
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- Thick white eyeliner
- Deep black eyeshadow
- Bold cat-eye shape
- Complementary pearl necklace and simple white top
Styling Tips:
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- To achieve this look, start with a base of neutral eyeshadow.
- Apply black eyeshadow in a dramatic wing shape.
- Outline the black with white eyeliner for a contrasting effect.
- Pair with neutral lips and a simple, elegant outfit to let the eyes take center stage.
Vibrant Turquoise Delight
Channeling the bright, optimistic spirit of the 70s, this look features vibrant turquoise eyeshadow. The bold, colorful application is typical of the hippie 1970s aesthetic, bringing a touch of disco blue to the mix. The model’s voluminous hair and minimal accessories draw attention to the eyes, making it a simple yet striking choice for any retro-inspired event.
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- Turquoise blue eyeshadow
- Winged eyeliner
- Voluminous, natural hair
- Nude lips for balance
Styling Tips:
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- Apply a primer to ensure the eyeshadow stays vibrant all day.
- Use a flat brush to pack on the turquoise color, blending out the edges softly.
- Keep the rest of your makeup minimal to emphasize the eyes.
- This look pairs beautifully with vintage-inspired outfits or modern minimalist ensembles.
Psychedelic Blue and Glitter
Embracing the more flamboyant side of the 1970s, this look combines glitter and bright blue eyeshadow for a truly psychedelic effect. The model’s heavy use of shimmer and layered blue tones create a look that is both daring and playful. The accessories, including a patterned headband and retro earrings, enhance the overall hippie vibe, making it perfect for those looking to make a bold statement.
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- Glittery blue eyeshadow
- Dramatic eyeliner
- Bold blush and glossy lips
- Retro accessories (headband and earrings)
Styling Tips:
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- Start with a glitter primer to make the eyeshadow pop.
- Layer different shades of blue, adding glitter on top for extra sparkle.
- Choose accessories that complement the makeup, like bold earrings and headbands.
- Ideal for a disco party or any event where you want to shine.
Disco Glamour with a Modern Twist
This look embodies the height of disco glamour with its shimmering, multi-dimensional eye makeup. The heavy application of iridescent eyeshadow creates a mesmerizing effect, perfect for a night out. Paired with sleek, pulled-back hair and bold red lips, this style oozes sophistication and confidence.
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- Iridescent, multi-tonal eyeshadow
- Bold red lipstick
- Sleek, polished hair pulled back into a low bun
- Statement rhinestone earrings
Styling Tips:
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- Use a glitter primer to ensure the eyeshadow stays in place and maintains its shine.
- Blend different shades of iridescent eyeshadow to create depth and dimension.
- Keep the rest of the face makeup minimal to let the eyes and lips stand out.
- This look is ideal for a disco party or any event where you want to make a statement with your makeup.
Playful Orange Pop
Channeling the vibrant energy of the 1970s, this look features bold orange eyeshadow paired with dramatic black eyeliner and thick lashes. The model’s blonde hair, adorned with a yellow headband, adds a playful touch to the overall aesthetic. This makeup style captures the essence of the hippie 1970s, blending fun and creativity.
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- Bright orange eyeshadow
- Defined black eyeliner
- Thick, voluminous lashes
- Blonde hair with a yellow headband and sunflower earrings
Styling Tips:
- Apply a bright orange eyeshadow all over the lid, blending it outwards for a soft edge.
- Use a black liquid eyeliner to create a bold winged line.
- Add false lashes for extra volume and drama.
- Pair this makeup with playful accessories like flower earrings and headbands to complete the look.
Ethereal Blue Elegance
This look is a modern take on the classic 1970s blue eyeshadow trend. The soft, shimmering blue eyeshadow, blended seamlessly into the skin, creates an ethereal, dreamy effect. Paired with glossy lips and a simple updo, this style is both elegant and timeless, perfect for any formal occasion.
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- Soft blue shimmering eyeshadow
- Glossy, nude lips
- Simple, elegant updo with loose strands framing the face
- Minimalistic jewelry for a refined touch
Styling Tips:
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- Use a light blue eyeshadow with a hint of shimmer for a subtle yet striking effect.
- Apply a gloss to the lips to keep the look fresh and modern.
- Opt for a simple updo, leaving a few strands loose to frame the face.
- This look is perfect for formal events, offering a sophisticated nod to the 1970s.
Disco Silver Sparkle
Embrace the dazzling essence of disco glamour with shimmering silver eyeshadow that captures the light and radiates elegance. The eyeshadow is applied generously over the lids and slightly under the lower lash line, creating a wide-eyed, luminous effect. Paired with a sleek bob and glossy lips, this look is perfect for channeling your inner 70s diva.
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- Shimmering silver eyeshadow
- Soft, glossy lips
- Sleek, voluminous bob with bangs
- Halter neck metallic dress
Styling Tips:
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- Apply a silver glitter primer to ensure the eyeshadow stays vibrant and crease-free.
- Use a soft brush to blend the edges of the eyeshadow, maintaining a smooth transition.
- Keep the lips glossy and neutral to balance the shimmering eyes.
- This look pairs well with metallic or sequin outfits, making it ideal for a night out or a retro-themed event.
Daisy Daydream
This playful and creative look is a tribute to the hippie spirit of the 1970s. Bright yellow eyeshadow and dramatic black eyeliner are complemented by delicate white daisy appliqués around the eyes and in the hair. The bold, artistic expression is further accentuated with a soft peach lip color and matching peach blush.
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- Bright yellow eyeshadow
- Black winged eyeliner
- Daisy appliqués on the face and in the hair
- Soft peach lips and blush
- Long, flowing blonde hair with an orange beret
Styling Tips:
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- Apply a bright yellow eyeshadow all over the lids, blending it up to the brow bone.
- Use a liquid eyeliner to create a sharp, bold wing.
- Adhere small daisy appliqués around the eyes using eyelash glue for a secure hold.
- Pair this look with floral accessories and bohemian-style clothing for a true hippie 1970s vibe.
Disco Pink Perfection
This striking look features vibrant pink eyeshadow and dramatic lashes, capturing the playful and bold essence of 1970s disco makeup. The model’s sleek hair is styled in soft waves, and the glossy lips add a modern touch to this retro-inspired look. The disco ball earrings provide a fun and thematic accessory, tying the whole look together.
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- Vibrant pink eyeshadow
- Dramatic false lashes
- Glossy nude lips
- Sleek, wavy hair
- Disco ball earrings
Styling Tips:
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- Start with a pink eyeshadow base and layer on a deeper shade for added dimension.
- Apply dramatic false lashes to enhance the eyes and give them a doe-eyed appearance.
- Keep the lips glossy but neutral to avoid overpowering the eyes.
- Accessorize with playful items like disco ball earrings for a complete disco party look.
Retro Green Glam
Inspired by the authentic 1970s aesthetic, this look features a bold green eyeshadow and sharply defined black eyeliner. The graphic eyeliner and bold colors are a nod to the punk influences of the era. The model’s platinum blonde hair, styled with a black headband, adds a touch of elegance to this edgy makeup look.
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- Bold green eyeshadow
- Sharp black eyeliner
- Platinum blonde hair with a black headband
- Retro flower earrings
- Matte nude lips
Styling Tips:
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- Use a green eyeshadow with a high pigment for a vivid, bold color.
- Create a sharp wing with black liquid eyeliner, extending it past the outer corner of the eyes.
- Pair this look with matte nude lips to keep the focus on the eyes.
- This makeup style pairs well with monochrome outfits or retro-inspired clothing.
Electric Blue Vibes
This look is a vibrant take on the 1970s blue eyeshadow trend, featuring electric blue eyeshadow paired with dramatic black eyeliner. The model’s blonde bob and blue headband add a cohesive and stylish touch to this bold makeup look. This style is perfect for those looking to make a statement with their eye makeup.
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- Electric blue eyeshadow
- Black eyeliner
- Blonde bob with a blue headband
- Blue flower earrings
- Soft, peachy nude lips
Styling Tips:
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- Apply an electric blue eyeshadow all over the lids, blending out towards the crease.
- Use black liquid eyeliner to create a thick, bold wing.
- Complement the eyeshadow with accessories in similar shades of blue.
- This look is perfect for a night out or a disco party, offering a striking and memorable appearance.
Sunshine and Flowers
Capturing the essence of hippie 1970s, this look features warm yellow eyeshadow and delicate floral accents. The model’s long, wavy blonde hair is adorned with small sunflowers, adding a playful and whimsical touch. This style is ideal for those who love to experiment with creative and fun makeup looks.
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- Warm yellow eyeshadow
- Black eyeliner
- Floral accents in the hair
- Long, wavy blonde hair with a yellow headband
- Soft nude lips
Styling Tips:
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- Apply a warm yellow eyeshadow across the lids, blending it towards the brow bone.
- Use black eyeliner to create a subtle wing, enhancing the eye shape.
- Add small flower appliqués or accessories in the hair for a whimsical touch.
- Pair this look with bohemian or floral outfits for a complete hippie look.
Pearly Retro Elegance
This look showcases a sophisticated take on 1970s glamour with a focus on pearly accents and dramatic eyes. The eyes are adorned with pearly dots, creating a luxurious and ethereal effect. The eye makeup features a bold black eyeliner with a soft grey and white eyeshadow blend, making the eyes pop. The model’s voluminous blonde hair, adorned with a black headband with large pearls, enhances the retro vibe.
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- Bold black eyeliner with a winged shape
- Soft grey and white eyeshadow blend
- Pearly dots accentuating the eye area
- Voluminous blonde hair with a black pearl-studded headband
- Soft pink lips
Styling Tips:
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- Apply a soft grey eyeshadow as a base, blending in white towards the inner corners.
- Use black liquid eyeliner to create a dramatic wing.
- Add adhesive pearl accents around the eyes for a luxurious touch.
- Style hair with voluminous curls and secure with a headband for a complete retro look.
Peach Blossom Charm
Embodying a soft and romantic 1970s aesthetic, this look features a warm peachy eyeshadow and soft pink lips. The eye makeup is accentuated with a black eyeliner creating a delicate cat-eye effect. The model’s hair is styled with a plush peach headband and adorned with small peach blossoms, enhancing the sweet and whimsical feel of the look.
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- Warm peachy eyeshadow
- Black cat-eye eyeliner
- Plush peach headband
- Small peach blossom hair accents
- Soft pink lips
Styling Tips:
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- Apply a peachy eyeshadow all over the lids, blending out softly.
- Use black eyeliner to create a subtle cat-eye shape.
- Add small artificial peach blossoms in the hair for a whimsical touch.
- Pair with soft pink lips and blush for a cohesive, romantic look.
Bold Purple Statement
This look features a vibrant purple eyeshadow and dramatic winged eyeliner, capturing the bold and daring spirit of the 1970s. The model’s brown hair is styled with a lilac headband, and delicate white flowers are placed throughout the hair, adding a touch of elegance. The makeup is finished with soft pink blush and glossy lips, creating a stunning and cohesive appearance.
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- Vibrant purple eyeshadow
- Dramatic winged black eyeliner
- Lilac headband with delicate white flowers
- Soft pink blush
- Glossy lips
Styling Tips:
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- Use a vibrant purple eyeshadow with high pigment for bold color.
- Create a dramatic wing with black liquid eyeliner.
- Add delicate white flowers to the hair for a touch of elegance.
- Pair this look with soft pink blush and glossy lips to balance the bold eyes.
Autumnal Retro Vibes
Embracing the rich tones of autumn, this look features a warm brown and orange eyeshadow blend, with bold black eyeliner for definition. The model’s platinum blonde hair is complemented by a floral patterned beret, enhancing the retro aesthetic. The overall effect is both nostalgic and fresh, perfect for channeling 1970s autumn vibes.
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- Warm brown and orange eyeshadow blend
- Bold black eyeliner
- Platinum blonde hair with a floral patterned beret
- Soft nude lips
- Freckles for added authenticity
Styling Tips:
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- Blend brown and orange eyeshadows to create a warm, cohesive look.
- Use black eyeliner to define the eyes.
- Add freckles using a brown pencil for a natural, retro feel.
- Pair with a floral patterned beret and soft nude lips for a complete autumnal look.
Sunshine and Greenery
This look is a vibrant blend of green and yellow eyeshadow, capturing the playful and creative spirit of the hippie 1970s. The model’s blonde bob is styled with a bright yellow beret, and the eye makeup features bold, graphic lines for a dramatic effect. The overall look is playful and artistic, perfect for those looking to experiment with color.
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- Green and yellow eyeshadow blend
- Bold, graphic black eyeliner
- Blonde bob with a bright yellow beret
- Yellow daisy earrings
- Soft nude lips
Styling Tips:
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- Apply green eyeshadow on the outer corners and blend yellow towards the inner corners.
- Use black liquid eyeliner to create bold, graphic lines.
- Pair with a yellow beret and daisy earrings for a cohesive look.
- Keep the lips nude and soft to balance the bold eye makeup.
Pink Floral Fantasy
This romantic and whimsical look features soft pink eyeshadow and dramatic black eyeliner, paired with delicate pink floral accents in the hair. The model’s voluminous blonde hair is styled with a plush pink headband, enhancing the sweet and dreamy feel of the look. The overall effect is soft, feminine, and perfect for channeling a 1970s floral fantasy.
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- Soft pink eyeshadow
- Black cat-eye eyeliner
- Plush pink headband with delicate pink flowers
- Voluminous blonde hair
- Soft pink lips
Styling Tips:
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- Apply a soft pink eyeshadow all over the lids, blending outwards.
- Use black eyeliner to create a subtle cat-eye shape.
- Add small artificial pink flowers in the hair for a whimsical touch.
- Pair with soft pink lips and blush for a cohesive, romantic look.
Bold Blue Retro Chic
This look showcases a vibrant take on the classic 1970s blue eyeshadow trend. The eyeshadow is applied in a bold, graphic shape, complemented by dramatic black eyeliner. The model’s voluminous blonde hair is styled with a white headband, and the makeup is completed with soft pink lips and a touch of blush for a fresh, youthful appearance.
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- Vibrant blue eyeshadow
- Black graphic eyeliner
- Voluminous blonde hair with a white headband
- Soft pink lips and blush
- Large white flower earrings
Styling Tips:
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- Apply a bright blue eyeshadow, blending outwards to create a dramatic shape.
- Use black liquid eyeliner to define the eyes and add graphic lines for extra flair.
- Pair with soft pink lips and a matching blush to keep the look balanced and fresh.
- Complete the style with large flower earrings and a voluminous hairstyle for a true retro vibe.
Green Daisy Delight
Embodying the playful and whimsical spirit of the hippie 1970s, this look features a bright green and yellow eyeshadow blend with bold black eyeliner. The eye makeup is accentuated with daisy appliqués, adding a fun and floral touch. The model’s brown hair is styled with a yellow headband, creating a cohesive and joyful look.
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- Bright green and yellow eyeshadow
- Black bold eyeliner
- Daisy appliqués around the eyes and in the hair
- Brown hair with a yellow headband
- Soft nude lips
Styling Tips:
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- Blend green eyeshadow on the outer corners and yellow on the inner corners for a gradient effect.
- Use black liquid eyeliner to create a bold winged look.
- Add daisy appliqués around the eyes and in the hair for a whimsical touch.
- Pair with a yellow headband and soft nude lips to complete the look.
Monochrome Mod Magic
This look captures the 1960s and 1970s mod aesthetic with its monochrome black and white eyeshadow and dramatic eyeliner. The eyes are defined with bold black lines and enhanced with white shadow, creating a striking contrast. The model’s blonde bob is styled with a black headband, and the look is finished with soft nude lips and playful daisy earrings.
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- Monochrome black and white eyeshadow
- Bold black eyeliner
- Blonde bob with a black headband
- Soft nude lips
- Daisy-shaped earrings
Styling Tips:
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- Apply white eyeshadow all over the lid, then use black eyeshadow to create bold lines.
- Define the eyes with black liquid eyeliner, adding graphic elements for a mod look.
- Style hair in a sleek bob with a black headband.
- Complete the look with nude lips and daisy-shaped earrings.
Red Beret and Orange Blossoms
This look combines the elegance of a red beret with the playful touch of orange floral accents. The eye makeup features subtle brown and orange shades, with dramatic eyeliner and bold red lips. The model’s blonde hair is styled in soft waves, adorned with vibrant orange flowers, creating a stunning contrast and a true disco glamour feel.
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- Subtle brown and orange eyeshadow
- Black dramatic eyeliner
- Bold red lips
- Blonde hair with a red beret and orange flower accents
Styling Tips:
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- Blend brown and orange eyeshadows for a warm, cohesive look.
- Use black liquid eyeliner to create a dramatic winged effect.
- Pair with bold red lips for a striking contrast.
- Add orange flowers to the hair and style with a red beret for a complete retro look.
Sunshine Retro Vibe
This look is a celebration of bright, cheerful colors with a focus on yellow and orange. The eyes are adorned with yellow eyeshadow and black eyeliner, creating a sunny, happy vibe. The model’s blonde bob is styled with a yellow beret, and the look is completed with soft nude lips and bold yellow accessories.
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- Bright yellow eyeshadow
- Black eyeliner
- Blonde bob with a yellow beret
- Soft nude lips
- Yellow daisy earrings and matching accessories
Styling Tips:
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- Apply yellow eyeshadow all over the lid, blending outwards.
- Use black eyeliner to define the eyes and add a subtle wing.
- Pair with soft nude lips to keep the focus on the eyes.
- Add yellow accessories and a beret for a cheerful, coordinated look.
Funky Yellow Shades
This look is a funky and vibrant take on the 1970s style, featuring bold yellow eyeshadow and matching yellow accessories. The eye makeup is complemented by black eyeliner and voluminous lashes. The model’s blonde bob is styled with a yellow beret and retro sunglasses, creating a fun and stylish appearance perfect for a disco party.
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- Bold yellow eyeshadow
- Black eyeliner
- Blonde bob with a yellow beret
- Retro yellow sunglasses
- Soft nude lips
Styling Tips:
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- Apply yellow eyeshadow generously over the lids.
- Use black liquid eyeliner to create a bold wing and define the eyes.
- Pair with retro yellow sunglasses and a matching beret.
- Keep the lips soft and nude to balance the vibrant eye makeup.
Pearlescent Glamour
This look radiates an ethereal elegance with its meticulous use of pearly accents. The eye makeup features a bold black eyeshadow base, outlined with pearly beads that add a three-dimensional effect. The model’s platinum blonde hair is sleek and adorned with pearls, matching the pearly accents on her sheer gloves. Soft nude lips and a flawless complexion complete this sophisticated and dreamy look.
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- Bold black eyeshadow
- Pearly bead accents around the eyes
- Sleek platinum blonde hair with pearly embellishments
- Sheer gloves adorned with pearls
- Soft nude lips
Styling Tips:
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- Apply a dark black eyeshadow, blending outwards to create a smoky effect.
- Use adhesive pearls to outline the eyeshadow for a dramatic, three-dimensional look.
- Style hair in a sleek manner and add pearls for an extra touch of elegance.
- Pair with sheer gloves embellished with pearls to enhance the overall glamour.
Galactic Silver Shine
This look is a dazzling tribute to the 1970s with its glittering silver eyeshadow and bold black eyeliner. The eyes are defined with a striking winged shape, accentuated by a sparkling silver shadow that adds a galactic touch. The model’s blonde hair is styled with a black headband, and the makeup is complemented by nude lips and dramatic black nails, creating a cohesive and bold appearance.
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- Glittering silver eyeshadow
- Bold black winged eyeliner
- Blonde hair with a black headband
- Nude lips
- Dramatic black nails
Styling Tips:
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- Apply a glittery silver eyeshadow all over the lids, blending outwards.
- Use black liquid eyeliner to create a sharp, dramatic wing.
- Style hair with a black headband for a retro touch.
- Pair with nude lips and dramatic black nails to complete the bold look.
Earthy Floral Elegance
Embracing an earthy and floral 1970s aesthetic, this look features a soft brown eyeshadow with intricate eyeliner detailing. The eye makeup is accentuated with delicate dots and bold, graphic lines. The model’s blonde hair is styled with a beige headband, and the look is completed with soft nude lips and floral-themed earrings, capturing the natural yet sophisticated essence of the era.
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- Soft brown eyeshadow
- Intricate eyeliner detailing with delicate dots
- Blonde hair with a beige headband
- Soft nude lips
- Floral-themed earrings
Styling Tips:
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- Apply a soft brown eyeshadow across the lids, blending towards the crease.
- Use brown liquid eyeliner to create intricate lines and dots for added detail.
- Style hair with a beige headband to maintain a natural look.
- Pair with soft nude lips and floral-themed earrings to enhance the earthy, floral vibe.
The 1970s was a decade of bold experimentation and vibrant fashion, especially when it came to eye makeup. From the disco glamour of bold contrasts to the free-spirited colors of the hippie 1970s, these looks continue to inspire and captivate. Whether you’re preparing for a themed event or simply looking to inject some vintage flair into your makeup routine, these iconic styles offer endless inspiration.
Feel free to leave a comment and share your favorite 70s makeup memories or tips on recreating these looks. Let’s keep the conversation going and the 70s spirit alive!