How to Create Authentic 1980s Makeup Looks for TV and Film
Booked as a background actor by Central Casting on a show set in the 1980s? Creating looks for period shows is a lot of fun, but can be challenging if you’re not familiar with the decade. We’re here to help with some 1980s makeup basics to give inspiration for your next ‘80s role.
Why ’80s Makeup Was All About Excess
Just like fashion in the 1980s, makeup was bright and bold. While modern makeup trends tend to focus on balance or accentuating one part of the face, like bold lips or power brows, ‘80s makeup reflected a culture of self-expression and materialism. From neon eye-shadow, to contoured cheeks, to frosted lips, there was no limit to how bold a look could be.
In the 1980s, makeup became a tool for self-expression and individuality. Experimentation with color and application was encouraged, with the goal of creating a unique look that reflected the personality of the person.
For makeup ideas, check out the varied looks from 1980s icons like:
- Whitney Houston
- Cyndi Lauper
- Madonna
- Grace Jones
- Boy George
Essential Elements for an Authentic 1980s Makeup Look
Even one makeup component that’s not correct for the time period can make your entire 1980s look seem out of place.
Here are all the elements you need to create the perfect 1980s makeup look:
- Foundation: A big part of 1980s makeup was creating a blank base to allow all the color to pop. Foundation was applied in layers and was typically two shades lighter than the natural skin tone (like Madonna’s look from the 1987 AMAs).
- Blush: Blush was a must in the ‘80s, applied in bright pinks and deep plums at an angle from the hollow of the cheek to the temple. Accentuating cheekbones was the main goal, leading the way for new contouring and draping techniques.
- Eyebrows: In a departure from previous decades, full thick brows were in during the ‘80s. Whether groomed and left natural or filled in for bolder looks, big brows were a key part of most styles.
- Eyeshadow: Eyeshadow was commonly applied lash to brow in pink, blue and purple and used either as a single color or blended together. For more muted eyeshadows, many opted for bronze or tan shades.
- Eyeliner: Heavy eyeliner was standard throughout the decade. The raccoon look? Totally normal for the 1980s. Matte black liner was applied to the top and bottom of the eye, then smudged to create the desired rocker style.
- Mascara: Standard black mascara on the upper and lower lashes was still the go-to throughout the decade, but bolder colors, like blue and purple, were also trendy.
- Lips: Whether you wanted bold red, frosted pink or metallic mauve, there were a variety of options to match your style. Lip liner was common, used in a slightly darker shade than the lipstick color to create a solid outline.
How to create your own 1980s look
From series set in the ‘80s to shows that jump around in different time periods, there are plenty of opportunities to show off your 1980s looks on set. When you’re booked, always craft your makeup, hair and wardrobe based on the information in your details. Each production will not only have a unique aesthetic they’re trying to create, but can have a specific vision for your role.
Keep in mind that an authentic 1980s look for a rural high school teacher is different than a glam ‘80s look for a New York club goer. So even if you’ve put ‘80s looks together before, the production or role may call for something different. That’s why it’s key to read your details completely and carefully.
Also remember, your makeup is just one part of your overall look. How you apply your makeup should match how you style your hair and what wardrobe you choose. If you’re unsure how far to take a look, it’s a good idea to apply your makeup conservatively then perfect your look with input from production using makeup you bring with you to set.
Not a Central Casting background actor, but still want to show off your 1980s looks on the sets of movies and TV shows? Signing up with Central Casting is free and easy!