Dewy Skin Glow
The cornerstone of 70s beauty was undoubtedly the radiant, dewy complexion. This look was achieved with lightweight foundations or tinted moisturizers
to create a natural finish. Highlighters, though not as intense as today, were used strategically to capture light on the cheekbones, brow bones, and the cupid's bow. Skincare played a vital role, emphasizing hydration and a healthy glow. The key was a subtle radiance, not a heavily highlighted or matte appearance. The focus was on natural beauty, enhancing the skin's inherent luminosity. This approach created a fresh and youthful look that defined the era's aesthetic, making the skin appear healthy and vibrant. The goal was to mimic the appearance of naturally healthy skin, which was often achieved with products that provided a touch of color and sheen.
Peachy Keen Cheeks
Cheek color was a significant part of the 70s look. Peachy and coral blushes were staples, applied to the apples of the cheeks to create a flushed, youthful appearance. The blush was often blended upwards towards the temples, creating a soft, lifted effect. Cream blushes were popular for their ability to blend seamlessly into the skin, offering a natural, dewy finish. Powder blushes were also used, offering a more buildable coverage. The choice often depended on personal preference and skin type, with cream blushes favored for dry skin and powder blushes for oilier skin. The application was crucial; the goal was to create a subtle glow rather than a harsh line. This method of blush application softened the features and provided a touch of color that complemented the overall natural aesthetic of the decade, making it a key element in achieving the era's signature makeup look.
Toasted Beauty: Bronzed
Bronzed skin played a vital role in creating the iconic 70s makeup aesthetic. This effect was often achieved with bronzing powders, applied subtly to the areas where the sun would naturally hit, such as the forehead, cheeks, and nose. The goal was not to appear heavily tanned but rather to enhance the skin with a healthy, sun-kissed glow. Cream bronzers were also popular for their natural-looking finish and ease of application. The emphasis was on a warm, radiant complexion that complemented the overall natural theme of the decade. This technique provided depth and dimension to the face, giving it a healthy and sculpted appearance without looking artificial. The bronzer was blended with care to prevent any harsh lines, ensuring a seamless and effortless finish. This approach created a look that celebrated the sun and a relaxed lifestyle.
Fresh and Flushed Lips
The lips during the 1970s were often adorned with subtle shades of lipstick and gloss. The focus was on enhancing the natural lip color rather than making a bold statement. Peach, coral, and nude lipsticks were popular choices, providing a soft and effortless look. Glosses were also widely used to add shine and dimension, creating a dewy effect. The lipsticks were often lightweight and moisturizing, contributing to the overall natural and radiant aesthetic of the decade. Lip liners were used, but in a softer way, defining the lips gently without creating a harsh contrast. The goal was to complement the other elements of the makeup, such as the dewy skin and peachy cheeks, creating a cohesive and harmonious look. This approach enhanced the natural beauty and was in line with the casual and carefree spirit of the era.
Mahogany Moment: Eyes
The 1970s makeup celebrated the eyes with a warm, earthy tone, usually mahogany. This rich color was often applied to the eyelids, creating depth and definition. Brown, rust, and bronze eyeshadows were also popular, allowing for a diverse array of looks, each providing a touch of warmth and sophistication. The eye makeup was typically blended softly, avoiding sharp lines, to keep the overall look natural and approachable. Mascara was used to enhance the lashes, often applied to both the upper and lower lashes. The focus was on creating a defined yet soft look, complementing the natural beauty of the eyes. This trend provided a touch of elegance that was well-suited for both day and night looks. The eye makeup was balanced with the rest of the face, reinforcing the era's focus on a subtle, effortless style.
Matte Minimalism: Base
While the 1970s embraced a natural radiance, matte finishes also played a role. Matte foundations were used, especially by those with oilier skin, to control shine and create a smooth base. These foundations were often paired with setting powders to ensure long-lasting wear. The matte look provided a contrast to the dewy skin that was prevalent. This balance in textures created dimension and interest. The matte base also allowed the eyes and lips to stand out, offering a way to balance a more expressive eye look with a refined complexion. This approach showed the versatility of the decade's beauty, accommodating a variety of skin types and personal preferences. The emphasis was always on creating a look that was both stylish and comfortable.
Frosted Details: Shimmer
Frosted makeup was a standout trend, adding a touch of glamour to the 1970s look. Frosted eyeshadows in shades of blue, green, and silver were commonly used, providing a subtle shimmer to the eyelids. This subtle shimmer added a playful element to the makeup, often used for evening events. Frosting was often paired with other elements, such as bronzed skin and peachy blush, to create a cohesive appearance. The frosted effect also extended to lip glosses, where a touch of shimmer was added to enhance the natural lip color. This approach allowed for creativity while still adhering to the natural themes of the decade. The application was key; the goal was to achieve a radiant glow without overdoing it. This trend added a sense of sophistication and fun, making it an influential aspect of the era's makeup.





