1970s Punk

Heavy black eyes, jagged liner.

1970s Punk is a rebellious, high-impact makeup style characterized by a stark matte complexion and aggressively dark, distressed eye makeup. Emerging from the underground music scene of the late seventies, this edgy look features heavy black eyeshadow, jagged graphic liner, and clumpy lashes to convey a raw, anti-establishment attitude.

To create 1970s Punk, start with a completely matte, heavily powdered base to achieve a stark complexion. Pack dense black eyeshadow across the upper lids and lower lash lines, then draw sharp, jagged spikes using liquid eyeliner. Finish by layering mascara heavily for a clumpy effect and pressing a deep, matte lipstick onto the lips for a perfectly imperfect stain.

Full Look Eyes Retro Edgy Alternative Graphic Costume/Theme Party Concert

~15 min 5 steps 9 products

The Kit

Matte Foundation
Translucent Powder
Fluffy Powder Brush
Dense Shader Brush
Matte Black Eyeshadow
Black Liquid Eyeliner
Smudger Brush
Volumizing Black Mascara
Deep Matte Lipstick

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How to Create 1970s Punk

Create Matte Base

Apply a matte foundation over the face and set thoroughly with translucent powder using a fluffy powder brush for a stark, shine-free complexion.
Pack Black Shadow

Use a dense shader brush to press matte black eyeshadow intensely across the upper lid and heavily under the lower lash line.
Draw Jagged Liner

Take a black liquid eyeliner and flick sharp, irregular spikes outward from the outer corners and lower lashes for a distressed, graphic effect.
Smudge and Coat

Soften the eyeshadow edges slightly with a smudger brush, then apply multiple heavy coats of volumizing black mascara to create a clumpy, rebellious look.
Apply Matte Lip

Press a deep matte lipstick onto your lips with your ring finger for an intentionally stained, imperfect pout that balances the heavy eyes.

Pro Tips

To prevent heavy black eyeshadow fallout from ruining your stark matte base, apply your eye makeup entirely before moving on to your foundation and powder.
If your liquid eyeliner spikes look too pristine, gently tap over them with a smudger brush and a tiny amount of black shadow to add a distressed, worn-in texture.
To achieve an authentic clumpy mascara look, hold your mascara wand vertically and sweep back and forth across the tips of your lashes to deliberately group them together.

Common Questions

What does 1970s Punk makeup look like?

It features a distinctly anti-perfectionist aesthetic centered around distressed, heavy black eye makeup and jagged eyeliner spikes. The complexion is kept starkly matte, while the lips are typically stained with deep, moody colors for an aggressively edgy vibe.

What products and tools do I need for 1970s Punk makeup?

You will need a highly pigmented matte black eyeshadow, a precise black liquid eyeliner, and a volumizing black mascara. A dense shader brush and a smudger brush are essential for packing and diffusing the shadow, along with a matte foundation and translucent powder for the base.

Is the 1970s Punk style good for makeup beginners?

Yes, because this alternative style thrives on imperfection and a lived-in aesthetic, making it highly forgiving for beginners. The smudged edges and intentionally clumpy lashes mean you do not need pristine precision to achieve an authentic look.

When should I wear 1970s Punk makeup?

This bold, graphic look is best suited for concerts, themed costume parties, or alternative nightlife events. Because of its theatrical nature and heavy reliance on stark black tones, it is generally considered too aggressive for standard daytime wear.

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