'70s Makeup Trends You Can Bring Into 2026 With Our MUA's Advice

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While some may be inclined to be critical of the things people actually found attractive in the '70s, in reality, it was a fantastic style decade. The '70s were full of so many great trends — bellbottoms, disco music, and a huge variety of different makeup looks. That period was all about experimentation, which meant there were no rules. We're talking glitter eyeshadow, shimmery lipstick, and lashes out to there. Though clean makeup has been the focus in recent years, a maximalist aesthetic is back in 2026, and we're seeing vibrant shades and shimmer brighter than a disco ball. As a makeup artist who loves color, I'm all for this trend resurfacing, but instead of copying the looks of that era to a T, there are ways to update them for a more modern take.

For those who aren't into over-the-top looks, the '70s were also full of minimalist faces, and I'll share tips to nail the no-makeup makeup look like a pro. Contouring was huge during that era, but streaky blushes are a thing of the past. Now, it's all about creating sculpted cheeks that look like you were born with to-die-for bone structure. Whether you're all about disco queen style or want barely-there flower-child makeup, these pointers will have you getting groovy in the most modern way.

When thinking of '70s makeup, glitter everything is one of the first things that come to mind, with celebs like Cher and Diana Ross known for their love of shimmery lids. This look is so fun to recreate, and there are many ways to play with glitter. One method is to create a cut crease for a three-dimensional effect, which you can do by prepping the lid with a primer or concealer. Next, sweep a thin line of dark shadow right at your natural crease and lightly smudge it with a flat brush. If you want a cat eye, you can make a sharp V shape at the ends. Finally, apply glitter onto the lids, making sure not to go over the crease. I love using liquid shadows that dry to a powder finish, such as the NYX Ultimate Glowshots that come in several shimmery shades. If you're using a powder shadow, I suggest wetting your brush first to really pack on the product.

Back in the '70s, spiky lashes were super in, but that's now an outdated beauty trend to leave behind in 2026. Opt for more feathery falsies, like the Kiss So Wispy set. These provide added oomph to your sparkly eyes but aren't so dense that they cover your lids. After all, you'll want that pop of glitter to be the star of the show — not spidery lashes.

A bronzed face and flushed cheeks were huge in the '70s, but for an updated look, forget the streaky contour of yesteryear. Instead, sculpt your face in a subtle way that creates a natural shadow. Using a bronzer no more than three shades darker than your skin tone, place a line about two inches long just under the high points of your cheekbones. Many make the mistake of applying contour in the hollow of their cheeks, but that'll only drag your features down. To blend the color, use a soft brush to gently buff the product in while using an upward motion, which will result in a lifted look.

The disco era was all about strong blush, with the sunburnt look reigning supreme. However, we're over the doll-like flush that trended in 2024, and a softer, watercolor finish is big this year. For the most gorgeous, natural glow, use a sheer liquid blush, such as Laura Geller's blush tint that comes in a variety of hues for all skin tones. Apply it to the tops of your cheekbones and blend it towards your temples so that it sits right above your contour. You can even add some to the bridge of your nose for that perfect sun-kissed look.

Lip glosses have come in and out of style over the years, dominating in the '70s, fading in favor of matte finishes in the '90s, and experiencing a revival in the Y2K era. They're back yet again in 2026 with so many different colors and finish options. Gone are the days when glosses were tacky and barely lasted an hour. With new formulas, beauty brands are knocking it out of the park with glosses that provide tremendous staying power. Path McGrath's Lab Lust in Heavy Petal is a fun, disco-friendly pink that's great on all skin tones.

Adding a gloss can also help you achieve long-lasting lip color — and it all has to do with layering. I love feathering in liner first to create a soft ombré effect, and then filling in the lips with a matching shade. Blot with a tissue once, and carefully apply the gloss to the center of your lips only — if you cover your whole mouth with the gloss, it may bleed, and you'll end up with a smudged mess.

Another trend you'll want to try this year is halo lips, which creates a soft, blurred look, unlike the crisp edges of the '70s. Simply take a cool-toned liner close to your lip color and slightly overdraw around the edges. Using a lip brush, lightly blend the color so that there are no harsh lines. Apply lip gloss to further enhance your pout, and you'll be left with plush, kissable lips that require no fillers.

Just when you thought blue eyeshadow was officially out, it's having a major resurgence right now, with various shades seen on the 2026 runways. However, instead of the graphic shapes seen on Twiggy in the '60s and '70s, a soft wash will help you achieve a more current look. Think blurred edges, a pop of color on the inner corners, or smudged smoky eyes. If you want a subtle look, I suggest using a powder that you can sweep onto your lids with a loose brush. To add some definition, tightline your waterline with a waterproof pencil and make a slight wing at the ends.

Blue eyeshadow may seem daunting, but try playing around with different shades, like those in the ColourPop Blue Moon palette, to get familiar with the color. You don't have to stick with bright shades to try out the trend — navy blue is a surprising neutral that will give your peepers depth without being overpowering. It's also a great combo when paired with a lighter color, especially for defining your crease. To keep things up to date, go with a sleek, velvet finish instead of the frost that makeup lovers preferred in the '70s.

When choosing the recommended products, I looked for brands that I've used before and are staples in my kit. They're also very well-known by other artists and makeup lovers everywhere, so I'm confident they can deliver. Additionally, I suggested products with a broad range of shades, so that those with any skin tone can find their perfect match.