Beauty trends are cyclical, often making a return long after they’ve first graced the runways and streets. What’s old is new again, and many retro beauty trends are making a huge comeback, taking inspiration from the glamour and boldness of past decades. From classic makeup looks to hairdos that are as stylish as they are timeless, retro beauty is all about embracing nostalgia with a modern twist. Here are some of the most iconic retro beauty trends that are back and better than ever.

1. Bold Winged Eyeliner (1960s)

The iconic winged eyeliner look that dominated the 1960s has made a major comeback. Think of the sultry, cat-eye style popularized by supermodels like Twiggy and Audrey Hepburn. This bold, defined look adds drama and sophistication to any makeup style, and it’s perfect for making your eyes stand out.

• Why It’s Back: The winged eyeliner is a timeless classic that never goes out of style. It adds a sharp, bold contrast that complements various eye shapes, and it’s easy to personalize with different thicknesses or angles.
• How to Wear It: You can achieve the perfect winged eyeliner with a liquid eyeliner pen or gel eyeliner. Start by drawing a thin line across the lash line and gradually build the thickness toward the outer corner. For a more dramatic effect, extend the wing slightly, following the natural angle of your lower lash line.

2. Flushed Cheeks and Bold Blush (1970s)

In the 1970s, bold blush was all the rage. This trend saw bright, flushed cheeks paired with a sun-kissed glow, thanks to bronzers and heavy blush applications. The aim was to achieve a youthful, healthy, and vibrant appearance.

• Why It’s Back: Blush has made a comeback with a focus on creating a youthful, fresh look. Many modern beauty influencers and makeup artists have embraced the 1970s trend of adding a pop of bright color to the cheeks, bringing an exciting and playful element to makeup.
• How to Wear It: Apply blush generously to the apples of your cheeks, sweeping it upward toward your temples. Choose bright, bold shades like coral, peach, or pink for that retro flush. Don’t forget to blend it well to create a natural-looking glow.

3. Bold Red Lips (1950s)

The bold red lip is the epitome of retro beauty, most notably seen during the 1950s. Icons like Marilyn Monroe and Elizabeth Taylor made red lips a symbol of glamour, confidence, and timeless elegance. This statement lip is all about standing out and commanding attention.

• Why It’s Back: A red lip is the ultimate power statement in today’s beauty scene. It’s classic, chic, and can elevate any outfit, from casual to formal. Plus, it’s a versatile look that can be dressed up or down.
• How to Wear It: Opt for a matte red lipstick for a more modern take or go for a glossy finish for a vintage-inspired shine. For precision, use a lip liner to define the edges of your lips and prevent feathering.

4. Vintage Waves and Curls (1940s-1950s)

Soft, voluminous waves and curls have always been associated with old Hollywood glamour, particularly during the 1940s and 1950s. Think of the vintage waves sported by stars like Rita Hayworth and Veronica Lake. These elegant waves give off a retro vibe that adds sophistication and allure to any look.

• Why It’s Back: Retro waves are once again being embraced for their timeless beauty and versatility. Whether you’re going for a vintage-inspired style or a modern-day chic look, these waves add an element of glamour and texture to your hair.
• How to Wear It: To achieve vintage waves, use a curling iron or flat iron to create smooth curls and waves. Make sure to brush through the curls lightly for a more relaxed, soft look. Finish with a hairspray for hold and a polished finish.

5. The Classic Bob (1920s-1930s)

The bob haircut, made famous by the likes of Louise Brooks and Clara Bow in the 1920s, has seen a resurgence in recent years. This sleek, chin-length cut was a bold statement of independence and modernity during the Roaring Twenties, and it’s just as stylish today.

• Why It’s Back: The bob is a versatile, low-maintenance cut that works well with both straight and wavy textures. It’s making a comeback because it offers a chic, sophisticated look that can be worn in various ways, from sleek and straight to textured and tousled.
• How to Wear It: Whether you prefer a blunt bob or an asymmetrical one, this cut looks great on various face shapes. Style it sleek with a flat iron for a polished look, or embrace texture with a curling iron or waves for a more relaxed feel.

6. Natural, Full Brows (1980s)

Full, natural brows were all the rage in the 1980s, with celebrities like Brooke Shields sporting bold, well-defined brows that framed their faces perfectly. This trend is back in full force as the modern beauty world embraces fuller, more natural brows.

• Why It’s Back: Over the years, eyebrows have become a focal point of facial beauty, with fuller, more defined brows creating balance and structure. The natural brow look is seen as more authentic and versatile, making it a popular choice for both everyday and special occasions.
• How to Wear It: For a bold, natural brow look, start by filling in sparse areas with a brow pencil or powder that matches your natural hair color. Use a spoolie to blend and shape your brows for a full, defined appearance.

7. Monochromatic Makeup (1990s)

The monochromatic makeup trend from the 1990s was all about creating a cohesive look using similar shades across the eyes, cheeks, and lips. This streamlined, minimal approach to makeup allows for a more understated, polished look while still adding a pop of color.

• Why It’s Back: Monochromatic makeup has made a comeback because it’s simple, easy to apply, and flattering on every skin tone. It’s a great way to create a harmonious look using your favorite shades, whether it’s a soft pink, warm peach, or deep berry tone.
• How to Wear It: Choose a single color family and apply it to your eyes, cheeks, and lips. For a natural look, use soft, neutral tones like beige or peach. For a more bold look, you can experiment with deeper shades like plum or red.

8. High-Shine Skin (2000s)

In the early 2000s, dewy, glowing skin became a major beauty trend, thanks to celebrities like J.Lo, who popularized the glowy, high-shine look. This trend is making a huge comeback as skin care products designed to provide a radiant, healthy glow are now at the forefront of beauty routines.

• Why It’s Back: Glowy skin is a symbol of health, youthfulness, and vibrancy, making it a staple in today’s beauty landscape. With the rise of skincare-focused makeup, achieving luminous skin is easier than ever.
• How to Wear It: Use highlighter strategically on the high points of your face (cheekbones, nose bridge, cupid’s bow) to accentuate your glow. Look for highlighters that create a natural, lit-from-within effect rather than an overly shimmery finish.

Conclusion

Retro beauty trends have a timeless quality that continues to inspire modern-day beauty enthusiasts. From bold winged eyeliner and vintage waves to full brows and glowy skin, these iconic looks offer a wonderful blend of nostalgia and innovation. By embracing these beauty trends, you can add a touch of glamour and sophistication to your routine while celebrating the styles that have stood the test of time. Whether you’re recreating a classic or putting a modern twist on a vintage trend, retro beauty is all about confidence, creativity, and having fun with your look.