Fierce & Fly: Recreating Iconic 80s Makeup Looks for Black Women

24 Jun 2024

Remember that electrifying decade of big hair, shoulder pads, and unapologetically bold style? The 1980s weren't just a time for fashion statements—makeup took center stage too. And for Black women, it was a chance to celebrate their beauty with vibrant colors, graphic shapes, and a whole lot of attitude. Think back to the iconic images of Grace Jones, Whitney Houston, and Vanity—their makeup was an extension of their powerful personalities, and it helped redefine beauty standards of the time.

The 1980s makeup aesthetic for Black women wasn't just about following trends; it was about embracing individuality. It was about using makeup as a tool of self-expression, highlighting one's unique features, and making a statement. Today, these looks haven't faded into the background. Instead, they're experiencing a powerful resurgence. Modern makeup enthusiasts are drawing inspiration from these iconic looks, adding their own contemporary twist.

What exactly made the 1980s makeup scene so special for Black women? It was a time of breaking boundaries and challenging conventional beauty norms. Prior to this era, makeup options for darker skin tones were limited. But the 80s brought a wave of change, with brands beginning to recognize the need for diverse shades and products that truly catered to Black women. Suddenly, there was a whole spectrum of colors to play with, allowing for experimentation and self-discovery.

Imagine the excitement of finally finding that perfect fuchsia lipstick that made your skin glow, or the electric blue eyeshadow that accentuated your eyes in a way you never thought possible. The 1980s were all about embracing those vibrant hues that popped against deeper skin tones.

But it wasn't just about the colors. The way makeup was applied was also revolutionary. Think sharp, geometric lines, dramatic cut creases, and bold blush application—techniques that sculpted the face and highlighted bone structure. This era encouraged playing with shapes and contours, creating looks that were both striking and unforgettable.

Advantages and Disadvantages of 80s Makeup

Advantages	Disadvantages
Celebrates individuality and self-expression Offers a wide range of color experimentation Emphasizes and accentuates bone structure	Can be time-consuming to achieve May require practice to master certain techniques Some products or color choices might not translate well to all occasions

Advantages

Disadvantages

Celebrates individuality and self-expression

Offers a wide range of color experimentation

Emphasizes and accentuates bone structure

Can be time-consuming to achieve

May require practice to master certain techniques

Some products or color choices might not translate well to all occasions

Best Practices for That 80s Vibe

1. Prep Your Canvas: 80s makeup was all about bold color payoff, and that starts with smooth, well-prepped skin. Begin with a moisturizer suited for your skin type and follow with a primer to create a flawless base.

2. Embrace the Bold: Don't be afraid to experiment with vibrant eyeshadows. Think cobalt blues, emerald greens, rich purples, and fiery oranges. Play with color combinations and create dramatic contrasts.

3. Define Those Arches: Eyebrows were a statement in the 80s. Go for a well-defined, arched brow using a brow pencil or powder that complements your hair color. Don't be afraid to go a shade or two darker for a more dramatic effect.

4. Highlight Strategically: Before highlighters became mainstream, women in the 80s used a light-reflecting eyeshadow or powder on cheekbones, brow bones, and the bridge of the nose for added dimension.

5. Complete the Look: Finish with a setting spray to lock everything in place and ensure your makeup lasts all day or night.

FAQs

What are some iconic 80s makeup looks for Black women? Some popular looks include the bold cut crease, graphic eyeliner, neon accents, and monochromatic color schemes.

What are some essential products for achieving these looks? Must-haves include vibrant eyeshadow palettes, black eyeliner, volumizing mascara, and a statement lipstick in shades like red, fuchsia, or berry.

Can I adapt these looks for everyday wear? Absolutely! Tone down the intensity by choosing less dramatic color combinations or focusing on one key element, like a bold lip or a graphic eyeliner wing.

Where can I find inspiration for 80s makeup looks? Explore photos of icons like Whitney Houston, Grace Jones, Janet Jackson, and Chaka Khan. Pinterest and Instagram are also great resources.

Is it important to use makeup products specifically designed for my skin tone? While using products formulated for your skin tone is always recommended, the 80s were about breaking boundaries. Don't be afraid to experiment and find what works best for you.

The magic of 1980s makeup for Black women wasn't just about following a set of rules—it was about rewriting them. It was a celebration of individuality, a fearless exploration of color, and a powerful statement of self. This era taught us that makeup is more than just a way to enhance; it's a form of art, self-expression, and empowerment. So go ahead, dig into those vibrant colors, perfect your graphic eyeliner, and let your inner 80s queen shine through.