80s Makeup & Hair Tutorial: Get The Rad Look!

Hey guys! Ready to rock that totally tubular 80s look? The 80s were, like, the era of big hair, bold makeup, and unforgettable style. If you're looking to channel your inner Madonna, Cyndi Lauper, or Molly Ringwald, you've come to the right place. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to recreate iconic 80s makeup and hair, from vibrant eyeshadows and blush to teased tresses and scrunchies. So, grab your leg warmers and let's get started!

Getting the 80s Makeup Look

The 80s makeup scene was all about boldness and self-expression. It was a time to experiment with color, and there were no rules! Think bright eyeshadows, blush that popped, and statement lips. Let's break down the key elements:

Eyeshadow: Go Big or Go Home

When it came to 80s eyeshadow, more was definitely more. Forget subtle neutrals – we're talking vibrant blues, purples, pinks, and greens. The key was to layer these colors and create a dramatic effect. Don't be afraid to blend multiple shades together! A classic 80s look often involved a bright color on the lid, a contrasting color in the crease, and a highlight shade under the brow bone. Think of electric blue paired with hot pink or vibrant purple with emerald green. The possibilities are endless!

To achieve the perfect 80s eyeshadow, start with an eyeshadow primer to ensure your colors stay put all night. Then, apply your base color to the entire lid, blending it up towards the crease. Next, add a darker shade to the crease to create depth and dimension. Finally, highlight your brow bone with a light, shimmery shade. Don't forget to blend, blend, blend! The goal is to create a smooth transition between colors, but don't worry about perfection – the 80s were all about fun and experimentation.

Blush: Pop Those Cheeks!

Blush in the 80s wasn't just about adding a subtle flush; it was about making a statement. Think bright pinks, peaches, and berries applied high on the cheekbones. The goal was to create a sculpted, almost contoured look, even if actual contouring wasn't as popular then as it is now. Apply your blush in a sweeping motion from the apples of your cheeks towards your temples. Don't be shy – you want your blush to be noticeable!

For an authentic 80s look, opt for a powder blush in a bright, matte shade. Cream blushes can work too, but they might not give you the same level of intensity. If you're feeling extra bold, try a blush with a hint of shimmer. Just remember to blend well to avoid looking like you have stripes on your cheeks. The key is to find a shade that complements your skin tone and don't be afraid to pile it on. The 80s were about excess, so embrace the boldness!

Lips: Bold and Bright

Just like with eyeshadow and blush, lip color in the 80s was all about making a statement. Think bright pinks, reds, and corals. Matte lipsticks were popular, but gloss was also a big trend. If you wanted to go full 80s, you'd often pair a bright lipstick with a clear gloss for that extra shiny effect. To really amp up the look, try lining your lips with a slightly darker shade before applying your lipstick. This will help define your lips and make them appear fuller.

Before applying your lipstick, make sure your lips are smooth and hydrated. Exfoliate them gently with a lip scrub or a toothbrush, and then apply a moisturizing lip balm. This will create a smooth canvas for your lipstick and prevent it from bleeding or feathering. When applying your lipstick, start at the center of your lips and work your way outwards. Use a lip brush for a more precise application. Blot your lips with a tissue to remove any excess product and then apply a second coat. For that extra 80s touch, add a layer of clear gloss on top. Voila! Your lips are ready to rock.

Don't Forget the Details: Eyeliner and Mascara

No 80s makeup look is complete without eyeliner and mascara. Eyeliner was used to define the eyes and create a dramatic effect. Black eyeliner was a staple, but other colors like blue and purple were also popular. Apply your eyeliner along your upper lash line, extending it slightly outwards to create a winged effect. You can also line your lower lash line for a more intense look. As for mascara, the goal was to achieve long, thick, and voluminous lashes. Apply several coats of mascara to your upper and lower lashes, making sure to separate them to avoid clumps. If you really want to go all out, consider using false eyelashes.

Achieving 80s Hair

The 80s were synonymous with big hair. Think teased roots, voluminous curls, and gravity-defying styles. Whether you had long hair, short hair, or anything in between, there was an 80s hairstyle for you. Let's explore the key elements of 80s hair:

Teasing: The Key to Volume

Teasing, also known as backcombing, was the secret to achieving 80s volume. This technique involves combing sections of hair backwards towards the roots to create a tangled, voluminous base. To tease your hair, start by sectioning it into small pieces. Hold each section taut and use a fine-toothed comb to gently push the hair towards the roots. Repeat this process several times until you achieve the desired volume. Be careful not to tease your hair too aggressively, as this can cause damage. Once you've teased your hair, smooth the top layer with a brush to hide the teased sections. Hairspray is your best friend here; use it liberally to hold your teased hair in place.

Curls, Curls, Curls!

Curls were another defining feature of 80s hair. Whether you had natural curls or needed to create them with a curling iron, the more curls, the better. Think tight, springy curls that bounce and move. To achieve 80s curls, use a small-barreled curling iron to curl small sections of hair. Hold the curl for a few seconds and then release it. Once you've curled all of your hair, gently separate the curls with your fingers to create volume. You can also use a diffuser attachment on your hairdryer to enhance your natural curls. Don't be afraid to experiment with different curling techniques to find the look that works best for you. And of course, hairspray is essential for holding those curls in place!

The Side Ponytail: An 80s Staple

The side ponytail was a quintessential 80s hairstyle. It was easy, stylish, and could be dressed up or down. To create a side ponytail, simply gather your hair to one side of your head and secure it with a hair tie. You can wear your side ponytail sleek and smooth or add some volume by teasing the roots. For an extra 80s touch, use a colorful scrunchie to tie your hair. Scrunchies were a major hair accessory in the 80s, and they came in a variety of colors and fabrics. The side ponytail was versatile and fun, perfect for any 80s-themed event.

Hair Accessories: Scrunchies, Headbands, and More

Speaking of accessories, no 80s hairstyle was complete without them. Scrunchies were a must-have, but headbands, ribbons, and hair clips were also popular. Headbands were often worn high on the forehead, adding to the volume and drama of the hair. Ribbons could be tied around ponytails or braids, and hair clips were used to add sparkle and shine. Don't be afraid to pile on the accessories – the 80s were all about excess! Experiment with different colors, textures, and styles to find the accessories that best complement your look. Accessories were the perfect finishing touch to any 80s hairstyle.

Hairspray: Your Best Friend

Last but not least, hairspray was the MVP of 80s hair. It was essential for holding those big, gravity-defying styles in place. Use hairspray liberally to lock in your volume, curls, and accessories. Choose a strong-hold hairspray that will keep your hair looking fabulous all night long. To prevent your hair from feeling stiff or crunchy, hold the hairspray can about 12 inches away from your head and spray in short bursts. Hairspray was the secret weapon for achieving those iconic 80s hairstyles.

Putting It All Together: Creating Your 80s Look

Now that you know the key elements of 80s makeup and hair, it's time to put it all together and create your own totally awesome look. Start by choosing a color palette for your makeup. Think about the colors that were popular in the 80s, such as blues, purples, pinks, and greens. Then, experiment with different combinations to find the look that you love. Don't be afraid to be bold and try something new! When it comes to your hair, think about the overall style you want to achieve. Do you want big, voluminous curls? A teased ponytail? Or maybe a combination of both? Once you have a vision in mind, start by teasing your hair and creating volume. Then, add curls, accessories, and hairspray to complete the look. Remember, the 80s were all about self-expression, so have fun and let your creativity shine!

Practice Makes Perfect

Like any makeup and hair technique, mastering the 80s look takes practice. Don't be discouraged if your first attempt isn't perfect. Keep experimenting with different colors, styles, and techniques until you find what works best for you. Watch videos, look at pictures, and draw inspiration from your favorite 80s icons. The more you practice, the better you'll become at recreating those iconic 80s looks. And most importantly, remember to have fun! The 80s were a time of boldness, creativity, and self-expression, so embrace your inner 80s diva and rock that totally tubular style!

Embrace the Fun!

The 80s were a time of fun, experimentation, and unforgettable style. Recreating 80s makeup and hair is a great way to express your creativity and channel your inner 80s icon. So, grab your makeup brushes, curling iron, and hairspray, and get ready to rock that totally awesome look! Don't be afraid to be bold, try new things, and most importantly, have fun! The 80s were all about self-expression, so let your personality shine through. With a little practice and a lot of enthusiasm, you'll be rocking the 80s look in no time.