Mastering 1960s Style Eye Makeup: A Complete Guide

Introduction

The 1960s was a revolutionary decade in the world of fashion and beauty. With iconic figures like Twiggy and Brigitte Bardot leading the charge, 1960s eye makeup became a symbol of individuality and freedom. This comprehensive guide will help you master the art of 1960s-style eye makeup, allowing you to embrace this vintage look with confidence and flair.

History of 1960s Makeup

The 1960s witnessed a dramatic shift in makeup trends. After the glamorous looks of the 1950s, the new decade embraced boldness and experimentation. The use of vibrant colors, dramatic eye makeup, and innovative techniques defined this era. The rise of the youth culture, influenced by music and arts, led to the popularity of eye makeup that emphasized the eyes, often featuring heavy eyeliner and false lashes.

Key Influencers of the Decade

- **Twiggy**: Known for her doe-eyed look and thick false lashes, Twiggy became the face of the 1960s. - **Brigitte Bardot**: Her sultry, smoky eyes and full lashes set a new standard for beauty. - **The Beatles and Mod Culture**: The music scene influenced fashion, leading to playful and experimental makeup styles.

Key Elements of 1960s Eye Makeup

Understanding the key elements of 1960s eye makeup is crucial to achieving the perfect vintage look. Here are the main components:

1. Bold Eyeliner

The hallmark of 1960s eye makeup is the bold eyeliner. Whether you prefer a classic wing or a graphic cat-eye, the choice of eyeliner is essential.

2. Dramatic False Lashes

False lashes were a game-changer in the 1960s beauty scene. They added volume and length, enhancing the eyes' appearance.

3. Soft Pastel Eyeshadows

Pastel shades like baby blue, lavender, and pale pink were widely popular. These colors were often applied generously to create a soft, dreamy effect.

4. Highlighted Brow Bone

A well-defined brow arch complementing soft eyeshadow was key. The brow bone was often highlighted to draw attention to the eyes.

5. Natural Lips

While the eyes were bold, lips were kept more natural, often using nude or soft pink shades.

Step-by-Step Guide to Applying 1960s Eye Makeup

Follow these steps to achieve the perfect 1960s eye makeup look:

Step 1: Prepare Your Eyes

- Start by cleansing and moisturizing your eyelids. - Apply a primer to help the makeup stay in place.

Step 2: Apply Eyeshadow

- Choose a soft pastel eyeshadow color. - Use a flat brush to apply the eyeshadow all over the lid, extending it slightly above the crease.

Step 3: Highlight the Brow Bone

- Using a small brush, apply a shimmery white or cream eyeshadow to the brow bone to highlight it.

Step 4: Eyeliner Application

- With a liquid or gel eyeliner, draw a bold line along the upper lash line. - Extend the eyeliner outward for a winged effect.

Step 5: Add False Lashes

- Apply a generous coat of mascara to your natural lashes. - Carefully place false lashes on top, ensuring they sit close to the lash line.

Step 6: Finish with Lips

- Apply a nude or soft pink lipstick to complete the look.

Product Recommendations

To achieve the best results, consider using the following products:
Product Type Recommended Products
Eyeliner Stila Stay All Day Waterproof Liquid Eyeliner
Eyeshadow Palette Urban Decay Naked2 Basics
False Lashes Ardell Demi Wispies
Mascara Too Faced Better Than Sex Mascara
Lipstick MAC Cosmetics Lipstick in Velvet Teddy

Common Mistakes to Avoid

- **Skipping Primer**: Always use an eyeshadow primer to ensure longevity. - **Overdoing the Eyeliner**: Maintain balance; too much eyeliner can overpower the look. - **Ignoring Eyebrows**: Well-groomed brows complete the look; don’t neglect them.

Case Studies and Expert Insights

Insights from makeup artists reveal that the key to mastering the 1960s look is practice and experimentation. Notably, many professionals emphasize the importance of finding the right eyeliner that suits your eye shape.

Expert Tip

Makeup artist Jane Doe recommends using a gel eyeliner for beginners, as it’s easier to manipulate compared to liquid formulas.

FAQs

1. Can I use modern products for a 1960s look?

Absolutely! Many modern products are designed for longevity and ease of use, making them perfect for achieving vintage looks.

2. How do I choose the right false lashes?

Opt for lashes that are longer in the center to create a doe-eyed effect typical of the 1960s.

3. What if I have hooded eyes?

Focus on using lighter shades on the lid and keep the eyeliner thin to not overwhelm the eye shape.

4. Is the 1960s eye makeup suitable for everyday wear?

Yes! You can tone it down for a more subtle look by using softer colors and less dramatic eyeliner.

5. Can I achieve this look without false lashes?

Yes, just apply several coats of mascara to achieve volume and length.

6. What are some good eyeshadow colors for this look?

Pastels like baby blue, lavender, and soft pink are perfect choices.

7. How do I remove 1960s eye makeup?

Use a gentle makeup remover or micellar water to effectively remove all makeup without irritating your skin.

8. How can I make my eyeliner last longer?

Set your eyeliner with a matching eyeshadow to help it stay put throughout the day.

9. What is the best way to practice this look?

Start by watching video tutorials and practicing on days when you’re not in a hurry.

10. Are there any skincare tips to consider before applying makeup?

Always cleanse and moisturize your skin before makeup application to achieve a smooth base.

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