1970s Makeup Trends Making a Comeback in 2025
The 1970s were a decade rich with individuality, bold self-expression, and unforgettable beauty trends. From shimmering eyeshadows to glossy lips and radiant skin, the ’70s aesthetic was about celebrating natural beauty with a touch of glam. Now, as we step into 2025, these iconic makeup trends are taking center stage once again, reimagined with a modern twist. Here’s a look at how 1970s makeup is inspiring today’s beauty landscape and how you can incorporate these retro trends into your routine.
Bold and Colorful Eyeshadow
The ’70s were synonymous with vibrant eyeshadows—think blues, greens, and purples sweeping across the lids. Fast forward to 2025, and these bold pops of color are back, dominating runways and social feeds. The difference? Modern adaptations focus on blending techniques and subtle metallic finishes for a more polished effect.
How to rock it in 2025:
Choose a bold hue that complements your skin tone. Blend it softly across your lids for a diffused look, or go all in with a dramatic eye. To channel true 1970s energy, balance bold eyes with fluffy lashes and understated brows.
The Return of Glossy Lips
While matte lips held their reign for years, glossy lips are taking over in 2025. The ’70s signature lip was all about a high-shine finish paired with a natural tint, exuding effortless chicness.
How to rock it in 2025:
Use hydrating glosses in neutrals or soft pinks to recreate this timeless look. Enhance your favorite lipstick by layering a clear gloss for a plump, shiny effect. Thankfully, today’s glosses feature lightweight and non-sticky formulas, making them even more appealing for everyday wear.
Effortless, Radiant Skin
The 1970s embraced a “less is more” approach. Glowing, natural-looking skin was a staple in beauty routines, often achieved with lightweight foundation and bronzed tones. This focus on radiant, skin-first beauty resonates deeply with 2025 trends.
How to rock it in 2025:
Start with a hydrating primer or dewy serum to create a luminous base. Opt for a sheer foundation or tinted moisturizer that lets your natural complexion shine through. Finish with a delicate sweep of bronzer across the cheeks and temples for a sun-kissed glow.
The Return of Graphic Liner
Graphic eyeliner was another standout trend of the 1970s, with dramatic shapes and bold wings front and center. Whether through floating lines or exaggerated cat eyes, eyeliner took on an artistic edge during this era. Now in 2025, eyeliner innovation is thriving, offering everything from vibrant colors to sleek metallics.
How to rock it in 2025:
Experiment with retro-inspired liner styles like bold wings or negative space liner. For an updated twist, try colorful or glittery liners that pop against a minimal makeup base.
Soft, Wispy Lashes
Unlike today’s chunky mascaras and heavy falsies, the 1970s embraced a natural lash look. Curled, wispy lashes gave off a soft, effortless vibe, perfect for a low-maintenance routine. This understated feel pairs beautifully with bold eyeshadow or graphic liner.
How to rock it in 2025:
Stick to lightweight mascaras or focus solely on curling your lashes for added definition. If you want to elevate the look, use individual lashes for a fuller, natural appearance while maintaining that 1970s soft allure.
Vintage Blush Placement
Blush during the ’70s was all about rosy cheeks with a sculpting effect. Blush was often applied high on the cheekbones and blended toward the temples, giving the face a lifted, healthy glow.
How to rock it in 2025:
Reach for creamy blush formulas that blend seamlessly into the skin. Choose peachy tones or rosy shades, and apply them along the cheekbones in an upward motion to recreate that lifted effect. A dewy finish will tie it all together for an authentic yet modern look.
Why 1970s Makeup Trends Are Everywhere in 2025
The revival of 1970s makeup is more than just nostalgia—it’s a celebration of individuality, artistry, and natural beauty. With its creative spirit and carefree feel, ’70s makeup aligns perfectly with today’s beauty ethos. Social media influencers and brands alike are drawing inspiration from this vibrant decade, and it’s easy to see why.
How to Make It Your Own
The beauty of 1970s makeup in 2025 lies in its versatility. You don’t have to recreate the entire look to enjoy retro flair. Pick and choose elements that reflect your personality and fit your lifestyle. Whether it’s a swipe of glossy lip color, a vibrant eyeshadow hue, or a hint of bronzer, there’s a piece of this revival for everyone.
Final Thoughts
The ’70s weren’t just about trends—they were about confidence, creativity, and having fun with beauty. These principles are what make these makeup styles so timeless and their return to popularity in 2025 so exciting. Whether you opt for subtle nods to the decade or go all out with bold colors and vintage-inspired techniques, the choice is yours.
Now, grab your metallic liners, shimmering palettes, and lip glosses—it’s time to party like it’s 1975, with a 2025 twist! Which 1970s makeup trend are you excited to experiment with? Share your favorites below!
FAQs About 1970s Makeup Trends Making a Comeback in 2025
1. What are some iconic 1970s makeup trends?
The 1970s were known for bold eyeshadow (think vibrant blues, greens, and purples), glossy lips, natural glowing skin, graphic eyeliner, fluffy lashes, and high-placed blush. These trends reflected individuality and creativity, traits that remain inspiring today.
2. Why are 1970s makeup trends popular again in 2025?
The return of ’70s makeup is fueled by nostalgia and the decade’s focus on self-expression and natural beauty. These trends align with 2025’s push for creativity and minimalistic, skin-first beauty routines, making them both relevant and timeless.
3. How can I incorporate 1970s makeup trends into my routine?
You can start small by adding one retro element at a time. For example, try a glossy lip for a fresh modern twist, experiment with bold eyeshadow for a night out, or use a touch of bronzer to mimic the radiant skin popular in the ’70s.
4. Is bold eyeshadow wearable for everyday looks?
Yes! The reimagined 1970s eyeshadow includes softer blending techniques and metallic finishes, which make bold colors like blues or greens more wearable. Pair the look with subtle lips and natural lashes for balance.
5. What products work well for recreating a natural 1970s glow?
Hydrating primers, tinted moisturizers, cream bronzers, and peachy or rosy blushes work wonders for achieving that effortless ’70s radiance. Look for lightweight formulas to enhance your skin’s natural beauty without feeling heavy.
6. How do I achieve the 1970s graphic eyeliner look?
Start by experimenting with bold cat eyes or floating eyeliner styles. Use liquid liners for precision, and don’t be afraid to try vibrant shades or metallic finishes for a modern twist. Keep the rest of your makeup minimal to highlight the liner.
7. What makes 1970s blush placement unique?
Blush in the 1970s was applied high along the cheekbones and blended toward the temples, creating a lifted effect. To update the look, use cream blush for a dewy finish and blend seamlessly for a natural, sculpted appearance.
8. Can I recreate ’70s makeup styles with modern products?
Absolutely! Many modern brands offer versatile products that make it easy to recreate retro-inspired looks. For example, today’s non-sticky lip gloss formulas, richly pigmented eyeshadows, and lightweight foundations are perfect for a modern take on 1970s makeup.
9. Are 1970s makeup trends suitable for every skin tone?
Yes, ’70s trends can be adapted to suit all skin tones! For example, choose bold eyeshadow shades or blush tones that complement your complexion, and opt for bronzers that enhance your natural glow. The beauty of these trends lies in their flexibility and customization.
10. What’s the best way to make 1970s makeup feel modern?
The key is balance. Pair retro elements with contemporary techniques or finishes. For instance, try bold graphic liner with minimal skin makeup or a high-shine gloss with soft, subtle eyeshadow. Mixing vintage vibes with modern trends creates a fresh, stylish look.
11. Are these trends good for everyday wear, or are they only for special occasions?
These trends can be effortlessly incorporated into everyday wear! For example, a glossy lip or a soft bronzed glow is perfect for daily use. If you want to go bolder, such as using vibrant eyeshadows or graphic liner, save these for events or times you want to make a statement.
Have more questions about 1970s makeup trends and how to wear them in 2025? Feel free to ask—we’re here to help you channel your inner retro goddess!