From the return of the blowout hair to kohl-rimmed upper lash lines, here’s how the beauty industry is traveling back to the 70s
The decadence of the 70s is a phenomenal period for the entertainment industry. Of course, who could ever forget the impact of ABBA, Kate Bush, and Fleetwood Mac? It was also a monumental age for disco with artists like Donna Summer, Diana Ross, and The Pointer Sisters as they dominated the radio airwaves.
However, it’s quite impossible to look back to the 70s without bringing light to its rich beauty history. Blowout hair, kohl-rimmed upper lash lines, and dramatic eyelashes were the visual paradigm of the era’s old-school glam. Meanwhile, colorful shimmered eyeshadows, soft blushes, and nude lipsticks became the archetypal format for the age of disco. It was nothing short of iconic, and now, it’s due for a comeback.
Defining 70s beauty
It’s undeniable that Daisy Jones & The Six made a nostalgic case for 70s beauty. The 10-episode series exhibited hair and makeup directions inspired by real-life icons like Stevie Nicks, Bridgitte Bardot, and Ali McGraw. However, the show is not the first entry for the age-old favorite genre. Ahead are films including Almost Famous, Dazed and Confused, and Bohemian Rhapsody who also helped the category enter the mainstream narrative.
While it’s easy to oversimplify 70s beauty with voluminous hair and creative eye makeup, take into account that the category is a collection of different looks based on numerous cultural phenomenons that occurred in the era. 70s beauty is all about creativity and self-expression. Moreover, it’s focused on making one feel independent, empowered, and confident.
Exploring the 70s hair
70s-style hair flicks have always been omnipresent throughout different generations, but who can blame us? The category encapsulates freedom through self-expression—a motif that is truly timeless. Alessandro Michele, Gucci’s former Creative Director, showcased his affinity with fun and free-spirited chops in numerous campaigns. Meanwhile, personalities like Miley Cyrus, Billie Eilish, and Emma Chamberlain proved that shaggy mullets deserve a revival.
The conversation wouldn’t be complete without a nod to the generation’s popular hairstyle: Farrah Fawcett’s signature blowout hair. In fact, the installment found a new life in the modern age with content creators like Matilda Djerf leading the category. An over-the-shoulder analysis of her look reveals her heavenly combination of the butterfly haircut and 70s-inspired voluminous hair.
Capturing the 70s makeup
It’s a given that the flamboyant decade introduced a long series of makeup looks that defined the generation. Take Bianca Jagger as an example. Her signature fresh complexion and kohl-rimmed upper lash line became a perennial inspiration for fans of the old-school glam. Meanwhile, Stevie Nicks’ brown, gold, and mauve makeup palette became an essential product for anyone who wants to encapsulate her ethereal style.
At the other end of the spectrum is a nod to disco. Think Studio 54, Donna Summer, and Dianna Ross. The beauty archives reveal the generation’s penchant for statement eye makeup through a play on colorful eyeshadow, glitter embellishments, and creative face decals. To say the least, it’s all about bringing the party on the lids.
The bottomline
And just like that, the 70s are back, yet its revival comes as no surprise. As one may probably know, the fashion and the beauty industry comes with a rich and long history that’s constantly referencing itself. Every season opens a creative space for interpretations. However, it’s also important to take note that the styles that circle back are the ones that are truly timeless, and that alone says alot about the 70s category.
What’s next for beauty? Who knows? But one thing is certain: the history of beauty holds all the easter eggs of what is yet to come.
