Beauty Archives: The 80's Decade of Decadence
- 4 min reading time
The 80s were anything but subtle. This decade was all about excess, self expression and pushing boundaries. In this edition of Beauty Archives we dive into The 80’s Decade of Decadence. From neon colours to metallics and make up you could spot from metres away. This was a time when understated looks simply did not exist and beauty was all about confidence and expression.
What kind of make up did they wear in the 80s?
80s make up was over the top, bold and expressive. Eyes and lips received equal attention, there was absolutely no need to choose between the two. Bright neon eyeshadow in blue, purple, pink or green was combined and worn with equally striking lip colours. Blush was bold and applied generously to the cheeks, often blended up towards the temples. Everything was meant to be seen and the more striking, the better.
Why was 80s make up so bold?
The 80s were all about freedom, individuality and power. Make up became a way to express yourself and make a statement. Music, pop culture and fashion played a huge role in this. Think MTV, pop icons like Madonna and David Bowie and extravagant outfits. Make up was not an afterthought, it was an essential part of the look. Subtle or natural clean girl makeup simply did not fit this era.
80s make up and hair went hand in hand
It was not just the make up that was over the top, hair played along too. Big, voluminous hair with curls, waves or lots of movement was typical for the 80s. The bigger the better. And do not forget the hair accessories. A sweatband for the gym? Not at all, a fashion item. Combine this with neon make up, metallic finishes and graphic details and you have the ultimate 80s vibe. Hair and make up enhanced each other and together created a powerful look.
Neon colours, metallics and graphic liners
Neon colours and metallic eyeshadows were essential in the 80s. Think bright blue, lime green, purple and hot pink. Graphic coloured eyeliner was used to make the eyes stand out even more. Lines could be sharp, but perfection was not required. That raw and expressive feel was exactly what made the look so strong.
Bold blush, bold brows and coloured mascara
Blush played a leading role and was often applied all the way up to the temples. The pinker or brighter, the better. Brows were full and present, not thin lines but bold brows that added strength to the face. Coloured mascara in blue, purple or even magenta was a popular way to add an extra colourful touch.
No subtle looks and no rules
What makes the 80s so iconic is that nothing had to be neat. Multiple colours in one look were completely fine. Make up could be playful, messy and expressive. It was not about perfection, it was about attitude. You can still see this today in modern interpretations of 80s make up, for example with artists like Zara Larsson who brings this aesthetic back in a contemporary way.
How to create a modern 80s make up look
Want to translate the 80s to now or heading to a carnival party? Pick one or two elements and modernise them. Go for bold eyeshadow in a few colours with a cleaner shape, combine bold blush with a graphic liner in a striking colour and keep the rest simple. Want to go all out? Why not. Get your Zara vibes on. And do not forget your nails. A fun manicure in neon shades completes your 80s look.
Why 80s looks remain popular
The 80’s Decade of Decadence continues to inspire because it is all about confidence and self expression. It reminds us that make up does not always have to be subtle and that rules are meant to be broken. Whether you go all out with colour and glitter or choose a subtle nod to the past, the spirit of the 80s remains timeless. Whether you are heading to a carnival party or creating a colourful festival look, the 80s remain a source of inspiration.
Shop your 80s make up at Boozyshop
Ready to experiment with colour, metallics and bold looks yourself? With the right make up products you can easily give the iconic 80s style a modern twist and show off your creative side.
Curious about our full make up assortment? Shop here >> Make up
