Retro eye makeup has seen a major resurgence in recent years, capturing the essence of classic glamour from different eras. Whether you're a makeup enthusiast looking to recreate the looks of the 1920s flapper, the 1950s pin - up, or the 1960s mod, achieving a retro eye makeup look can be both fun and rewarding. As an eye makeup supplier, I'm here to guide you through the steps to create a stunning retro eye makeup look.
Step 1: Prepare Your Eyes
Before you start applying any makeup, it's crucial to prepare your eyes. Begin by cleansing your eyelids to remove any dirt, oil, or residue. Use a gentle eye makeup remover and a soft cotton pad. After cleansing, pat your eyelids dry.
Next, apply an eyeshadow primer. This step is often overlooked but is essential for a long - lasting makeup look. A good eyeshadow primer helps to smooth the skin on your eyelids, create a base for the eyeshadow, and prevent creasing. It also intensifies the color payoff of your eyeshadows.
Step 2: Shape Your Brows
Well - groomed eyebrows are the frame of your eyes and play a significant role in a retro look. Start by brushing your eyebrows upwards with an eyebrow brush to identify any stray hairs. Use a pair of sharp tweezers to pluck any unwanted hairs, following the natural shape of your brows.
To set the shape and add color, use an Eyebrow Styling Gel. This gel not only holds the hairs in place but also adds a subtle tint to your brows. Apply the gel with a spoolie brush, brushing the hairs in the direction of their growth.
Step 3: Choose Your Eyeshadow Palette
The choice of eyeshadow palette depends on the specific retro era you're aiming for.
1920s Flapper Look
The 1920s flapper look was characterized by dark, smoky eyes. Opt for a palette with shades of black, charcoal, and deep brown. Start by applying a light - colored eyeshadow, such as a champagne or beige, all over your eyelid as a base. Then, take a dark eyeshadow, like black or charcoal, and apply it to the outer corner of your eye, blending it into the crease. You can also add a touch of silver or gold glitter eyeshadow in the inner corner of your eye for a bit of sparkle.
1950s Pin - Up Look
The 1950s pin - up look featured bright, bold eyeshadows. Think of shades like bright blue, pink, or purple. Apply a light - colored eyeshadow all over your eyelid, then choose a bold color and apply it to the outer half of your eyelid. Blend the colors together for a smooth transition. Finish with a touch of white eyeshadow in the inner corner of your eye to make your eyes pop.
1960s Mod Look
The 1960s mod look was all about geometric shapes and bright colors. Use a palette with primary colors like red, blue, and yellow. You can create a graphic eyeshadow look by using a small angled brush to apply the colors in sharp lines and shapes. For example, you can create a triangle of color on the outer corner of your eye.
Step 4: Line Your Eyes
Lining your eyes is a key step in achieving a retro look. There are different types of eyeliners you can use depending on the effect you want to achieve.
For a classic, sharp line, you can use a Best Waterproof Gel Eyeliner Pencil. This type of eyeliner is easy to control and can create a precise line. Start at the inner corner of your eye and draw a thin line along your lash line, gradually thickening the line as you move towards the outer corner. You can also create a winged effect by extending the line past the outer corner of your eye at an angle.
If you want a more dramatic and glittery look, try using a Waterproof Liquid Glitter Eyeliner. This eyeliner adds a touch of sparkle and can make your eyes stand out. Apply it in the same way as a regular eyeliner, but be careful not to get the glitter in your eyes.
Step 5: Apply Mascara
Mascara is the final step in completing your retro eye makeup look. It helps to define your lashes and make your eyes look more open and dramatic.
Choose a mascara that gives you volume and length. Start by wiggling the mascara wand at the base of your lashes, then pull it through to the tips. You can apply multiple coats for a more intense look, but make sure to wait for each coat to dry before applying the next one.
Tips for a Perfect Retro Eye Makeup Look
- Blend, blend, blend: Blending is the key to a smooth and natural - looking eye makeup. Use a clean eyeshadow brush to blend the edges of your eyeshadows and liner for a seamless look.
- Use the right tools: Invest in good quality makeup brushes and tools. A small angled brush is great for applying eyeliner and shaping your brows, while a fluffy blending brush is essential for blending eyeshadows.
- Practice makes perfect: Don't be discouraged if your first attempt at a retro eye makeup look doesn't turn out as expected. Keep practicing, and you'll get better with time.
Conclusion
Creating a retro eye makeup look is a great way to express your creativity and pay homage to the classic styles of the past. By following these steps and using the right products, you can achieve a stunning retro eye makeup look that will make you stand out.


As an eye makeup supplier, we offer a wide range of high - quality eye makeup products, including the ones mentioned in this blog. If you're interested in purchasing our products or have any questions about our eye makeup line, we invite you to reach out for a procurement discussion. We're committed to providing you with the best products and services to meet your makeup needs.
References
- "The History of Makeup" by Lisa Eldridge
- "Retro Makeup Tutorials" on YouTube channels such as NikkieTutorials and Jaclyn Hill