90s makeup has been dominating the beauty conversation for a while now, but pop singer Olivia Dean is making a compelling case for the decade that came before it. Recently spotted in a full 80s beauty moment, she stopped us in our scroll. The era’s signature approach leans hard into color – a bold eye paired with equally vibrant cheeks. It has a more playful energy than the minimalist looks associated with the 90s or Y2K, and yes, it borders on theatrical. But that’s what makes it work. 80s beauty isn’t trying to be subtle and it doesn’t pretend to be. It belongs at a girls’ night out, a live music event, or anywhere else that deserves a little drama. Here’s how to recreate Olivia Dean’s take on it.
Complexion
Keep your base hydrated, blurred, and flawless – it makes the perfect canvas for those flushed cheeks. After applying primer, blend in a light layer of matte foundation, followed by a few strategic swipes of concealer to even out the skin tone. Dust translucent powder across the high points of the face, then sweep on bronzer to sculpt and warm up your complexion. Next comes the main event: a bright pink cream blush, blended out completely before layering on a matching powder blush for seriously high-impact color. Consider it an 80s beauty essential.
Eyes
Start with a matte eyeshadow palette, sweeping an ivory shade across the brow bone to brighten and lift. Pack a gray, almost purple, shadow across the lids, then deepen the outer corners with a slightly darker shade for subtle dimension. Using waterproof black eyeliner, tightline both the upper and lower waterlines. Smudge a brown shadow along the lower lash line to echo the smoky effect underneath the eyes. Finish with a few outer-corner wispies and a hit of shimmer in the inner corners for a little extra flash.
This 80s beauty look, à la Olivia Dean, is about as iconic as it gets.
Susan is an experienced fashion and beauty writer with a knack for sharing insider tips and tricks. With a wealth of industry knowledge and a passion for all things style-related, she is here to guide you on your fashion and beauty journey. Susan has attended several fashion weeks and gained a behind-the-scenes look at countless beauty teams, witnessing the magic that happens both on and off the runway. Having collaborated with top beauty brands and ghostwriting for renowned influencers, there's no doubt she has valuable insights into the exclusive world of fashion and beauty. Susan's distinctive voice combines an editorial edge with a conversational and lighthearted tone, making her advice accessible and enjoyable. She understands that fashion and beauty are about self-expression and feeling confident in your own skin so she is committed to empowering you to embrace your own aesthetic and enhance your inner beauty. Tune into her musings to stay up to date on the latest fashion obsessions, discover beauty secrets, and obtain expert advice that will make you feel like a superstar on the daily. Whether you're seeking fashion-forward tips, the perfect skincare routine, or a dose of style inspiration, Susan has you covered. Get ready to decode the hottest trends and uncover game-changing products with her guidance.
It’s no secret that 90s makeup trends are enjoying a resurgence, but pop singer Olivia Dean is making a compelling case for 80s beauty. Get the full breakdown ahead.
Photo via @aimeetwistartistry
