Each decade has its stand-out makeup trends, from blue eyeliner in the 1980s, popularised by the late Princess Diana, to strong lipliner in the 1990s, loved by stars such as Victoria Beckham.
Barely-there makeup, beautiful bronzed skin and peachy cheeks were all beauty hallmarks of the 1970s, but they are just as relevant today as they were 50 years ago.
Inspired by celebrities including Farrah Fawcett, whose sun-kissed and glowing complexion became iconic, these retro makeup trends offer an effortless, natural glow that is perfect for spring, and easily achieved with just a few hard-working products. We caught up with Jamie Genevieve, make-up artist and Founder of VIEVE, to find out the 70s makeup trends that work just as well today, along with how to get the look…
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© Getty ImagesBlusher can give you a healthy glow
Rosy cheeks
Adding a peachy pop of colour to your skin is a timeless makeup look that was incredibly popular in the 1970s, and can be tailored to suit all skin tones. For a radiant look, Jamie recommends layering up two shades of blusher. Opting for a balm instead of powder blush can also help to create a softer, more natural look.
"Blush is the quickest way to breathe life back into your complexion; it gives you that healthy, lifted glow that is timeless," the makeup artist says. "I layer blush so it creates a sun-kissed warmth and amplifies your natural radiance. It’s the perfect finishing touch that makes every look great."
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© Getty ImagesGet a sun-kissed look inspired by the seventies
Bronzed skin
Gorgeous bronzed skin was a non-negotiable for a seventies glow, and is well and truly back in 2026. But you don't need to book an exotic holiday to get the sun-kissed look; forego skin damage and instead add a healthy glow with bronzer. According to Jamie, a cream formulation bronzer is a must-have to try this trend.
She said she loves "a lighter, glowy base" with minimal coverage, adding bronzer for warmth during the summer seasons.
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© Getty ImagesSwap heavy foundations for lighter base to get the seventies glow
Barely-there base
Less is more when it comes to your base for a seventies-inspired makeup look. Swap heavy foundations for a lightweight balm for a natural, fresh-faced complexion.
"Using a light water-based primer will hydrate skin without overloading and will keep the skin feeling soft even under powder," Jamie says.
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© Getty ImagesUse lip gloss or high shine balm to complete your seventies makeup look
Glossy lips
Lip gloss is back! Glossy, nude lips were a favourite makeup look of the 1970s, and this is one trend that is really easy to try for yourself with a tinted balm or high shine lip gloss.
Jamie shares she switches between a natural lip, a high-shine lip gloss and a more daring lipstick.
