Exploring the Timeless Allure of 70s Lipstick

Step into a time machine and travel back to the groovy era of the 1970s, where bold and vibrant lipstick shades reigned supreme. The 70s was a transformative decade in fashion and beauty, characterized by disco fever and a celebration of self-expression.

In this nostalgic journey, we dive into the captivating world of 70s lipstick, exploring iconic shades, application techniques, and how to infuse a touch of retro glamour into your modern-day makeup looks.

Get ready to channel your inner disco diva and embrace the timeless allure of 70s lipstick.

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The Vibrant Shades of 70s Lipstick

70s lipstick was all about embracing vibrant and statement-making shades. Let’s take a closer look at some of the iconic colors that defined the era:

Bold Reds: Bold and fiery reds were a staple of 70s lipstick, exuding confidence and power. Think vibrant, true reds that command attention and make a strong impact. This classic shade was a go-to choice for those seeking to make a bold statement.

Rich Berries: Deep, rich berry shades were also popular during the 70s. Ranging from dark purples to intense plums, these hues added a touch of mystery and sophistication to any makeup look.

Electric Pinks: Embrace your inner disco queen with electric pinks that scream fun and excitement. These vivid shades of pink instantly brightened up the face and complemented the colorful fashion trends of the era.

Coral Oranges: Coral oranges were another popular choice for 70s lipstick. These warm and vibrant shades added a playful and sunny vibe to any makeup look, making them perfect for the summer months or beachy-inspired ensembles.

The Signature 70s Lipstick Look

The 70s lipstick look was all about making a statement. To achieve that signature retro glamour, follow these steps:

Smooth Canvas: Start by prepping your lips with a gentle exfoliation to remove any dry or flaky skin. Apply a hydrating lip balm and allow it to absorb while you work on the rest of your makeup.

Lip Liner: To enhance the shape and longevity of your 70s lipstick, consider using a lip liner in a shade that matches your chosen lipstick color.

Outline the natural shape of your lips, emphasizing the cupid’s bow and defining the corners. Fill in the rest of your lips with the lip liner to create a base for the lipstick.

Bold Application: Apply the 70s lipstick directly from the bullet or use a lip brush for precision. Start from the center of your lips and work your way outward, ensuring even coverage.

For an authentic retro look, slightly overdraw the lips to achieve a fuller appearance. Embrace the boldness and intensity of the era.

Blot and Layer: After applying the initial layer of lipstick, blot your lips with a tissue to remove any excess product. This step helps to set the color and prevent smudging. Apply a second layer of lipstick for a more vibrant and long-lasting finish.

Embracing the 70s Lipstick Look Today

While the 70s lipstick look is undeniably iconic, there are ways to adapt it to modern times:

Matte Finish: To give your 70s lipstick a contemporary twist, opt for a matte finish. Matte lipsticks offer a long-lasting and sophisticated look that complements various makeup styles.

Choose a matte formula in your favorite 70s-inspired shade for a modern interpretation of the retro look.

Subtle Eye Makeup: Balance the boldness of your 70s lipstick by keeping your eye makeup soft and understated. Opt for neutral eyeshadows, a touch of mascara, and well-groomed brows.

This allows the focus to remain on your vibrant lips while creating a harmonious overall makeup look.

Modern Outfits with a Retro Twist: Embrace the nostalgia of the 70s lipstick look by pairing it with modern outfits that incorporate retro elements.

Consider high-waisted jeans, flowy bohemian dresses, or wide-legged pants for a nod to the fashion trends of the era.

Iconic 70s Lipstick Inspiration

To fully immerse yourself in the world of 70s lipstick, draw inspiration from iconic celebrities and cultural moments of the era:

Studio 54: Channel the glamorous vibe of Studio 54, the legendary nightclub that defined the 70s disco scene. Look to style icons like Bianca Jagger, Debbie Harry, and Farrah Fawcett for inspiration on how to rock bold lipstick shades with confidence and panache.

Blaxploitation Films: Explore the captivating world of 70s blaxploitation films, known for their strong female leads and fierce style.

Take cues from Pam Grier’s fierce and empowered characters, who often sported vibrant lip colors that matched their unapologetic personalities.

Vintage Beauty Ads: Delve into vintage beauty ads and magazines from the 70s to gather inspiration on how lipstick was marketed and styled during the era. These visuals offer a glimpse into the trends and aesthetics that shaped 70s lipstick culture.

Embracing 70s Lipstick Trends

Two-Toned Lips: The 70s saw the rise of unique and experimental lipstick trends, including the popular two-toned lips.

This involved applying one shade of lipstick to the top lip and a contrasting shade to the bottom lip. The result was a bold and eye-catching lip look that added a playful twist to makeup.

Shimmer and Metallic Finishes: Another trend that dominated 70s lipstick was the incorporation of shimmer and metallic finishes. Lipsticks with metallic or shimmery particles added an extra touch of glamour and disco-inspired sparkle to the lips.

Gradient Lips: Gradient lips, where the color fades from darker to lighter shades, were also popular during the 70s.

This technique created a soft and blended effect, giving the illusion of fuller lips. Experiment with gradient lip looks using complementary shades within the same color family.

70s Lipstick Icons

Twiggy: English model and actress Twiggy was an iconic figure of the 70s with her signature mod style. She often sported a nude or pale pink lipstick, which perfectly complemented her doe-eyed, doll-like look.

Diana Ross: The legendary singer and actress Diana Ross was known for her glamorous stage presence and bold makeup choices. She frequently wore vibrant red and berry lipstick shades, adding to her fierce and captivating persona.

Jane Birkin: French-British actress and singer Jane Birkin exuded effortless charm with her natural beauty and minimalist style. She often opted for nude or peachy lipstick shades, showcasing a more understated yet chic approach to 70s lipstick.

Tips for Finding the Perfect 70s Lipstick Shade

Skin Undertones: Consider your skin undertones when selecting a 70s lipstick shade. Those with warm undertones may lean towards corals, oranges, and warm reds, while cool undertones can complement cooler shades like pinks and berries.

Personal Style: Explore different shades within the 70s lipstick spectrum and choose the ones that resonate with your personal style and preferences.

Whether you prefer bold and vibrant hues or more subdued and natural-looking colors, there’s a 70s lipstick shade to suit every taste.

Experimentation: Don’t be afraid to experiment with different 70s lipstick shades and finishes to find your perfect match.

Try out various brands and formulations to discover the texture and longevity that best suits your needs.

The Influence of 70s Lipstick on Modern Beauty

Retro Revival: The love for 70s lipstick has made a resurgence in recent years, with many beauty enthusiasts embracing the retro aesthetic.

Modern makeup brands have created their own interpretations of 70s-inspired lipstick shades, allowing individuals to recreate the vintage look with a contemporary twist.

Runway and Editorial Looks: Fashion designers and makeup artists often draw inspiration from past decades, including the 70s, when creating runway and editorial makeup looks.

You can often spot nods to the era’s vibrant lipstick trends in fashion shows and magazine spreads.

Celebrities and Red Carpet: Celebrities frequently pay homage to the glamour of the 70s by donning bold lipstick shades on the red carpet.

From deep reds to electric pinks, these statement lip colors continue to make an impact in the world of modern beauty and fashion.

Conclusion

70s lipstick encapsulates the spirit of an era defined by self-expression and vibrant aesthetics. By embracing the bold shades and confident application techniques, you can transport yourself to a time of disco balls, groovy music, and iconic fashion statements.

Incorporate elements of the 70s lipstick look into your modern-day makeup routine to add a touch of retro glamour to your everyday life. Unleash your inner disco diva and let your lips take center stage with the captivating allure of 70s lipstick.