Steampunk

Victorian industrial sci-fi. Bronze, copper, and gold tones, gear motifs, grease smudges, and dark lips.

Steampunk is a creative, theatrical makeup style inspired by Victorian-era industrial science fiction aesthetics. This dramatic look is characterized by a flawless, matte complexion juxtaposed with heavy metallic bronze and copper tones, dark vampy lips, and simulated industrial soot smudges. It is perfect for conventions, costume parties, or anyone looking to embody a rugged yet elegant retro-futuristic character.

To create Steampunk makeup, begin by applying a flawless, matte foundation set with powder to mimic a Victorian complexion. Heavily contour the cheekbones using warm bronzer, then pack metallic copper and gold shadows onto the eyes. Finish the theatrical look by stippling simulated soot smudges across the face and applying a deep, matte burgundy lip.

Full Look Eyes Alternative Retro Theatrical Costume/Theme Convention

~15 min 5 steps 15 products

The Kit

Matte Foundation
Translucent Setting Powder
Fluffy Powder Brush
Matte Bronzer
Angled Contour Brush
Metallic Copper Eyeshadow
Metallic Gold Eyeshadow
Matte Black Eyeshadow
Matte Brown Eyeshadow
Flat Eyeshadow Brush
Black Pencil Eyeliner
Smudge Brush
Textured Stippling Sponge
Deep Burgundy Matte Liquid Lipstick
Dark Lip Liner

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How to Create Steampunk

Create Matte Base

Apply a full-coverage, matte foundation and set thoroughly with translucent powder to mimic a flawless Victorian complexion.
Sculpt With Bronze

Use an angled contour brush to sweep a warm matte bronzer heavily under the cheekbones and around the temples.
Apply Metallic Eyes

Press metallic copper eyeshadow across the lid and highlight the inner corners with gold powder. Line the eyes with black pencil and diffuse the edges using a smudge brush.
Add Grease Smudges

Lightly dab a textured stippling sponge into matte black and brown eyeshadows, then press randomly along the forehead and jawline to simulate industrial soot.
Paint Dark Lips

Line and fill the lips completely with a deep burgundy or black matte liquid lipstick to anchor the theatrical vibe.

Pro Tips

For the most realistic soot smudges, apply the dark matte eyeshadows with a light hand using a porous stippling sponge, concentrating on areas where you would naturally wipe a sweaty face, like the forehead, jawline, or temples.
To make your metallic copper and gold eyeshadows truly pop against the matte base, spray your flat eyeshadow brush with a setting spray before packing the pigments onto your lid.
If you plan to wear this look for a long convention day, color in your entire lip with a matching deep lip liner before applying the matte liquid lipstick to prevent the dark color from fading or bleeding.

Common Questions

What does Steampunk makeup look like?

Steampunk makeup typically features a stark, matte Victorian-style complexion contrasted with warm metallic eye shadows in copper, gold, and bronze. The look is often finished with theatrical elements like simulated soot smudges and a dark, vampy lip.

What products do I need for Steampunk makeup?

You will need a full-coverage matte foundation, metallic copper and gold eyeshadows, and a deep burgundy or black liquid lipstick. A textured stippling sponge and matte dark eyeshadows are also essential for creating realistic industrial grease smudges.

Is Steampunk makeup good for beginners?

This medium-difficulty style is very approachable for beginners because the messy, smudged elements hide imperfections perfectly. While creating a flawless base and bold lip takes some care, the rugged soot and diffused eye makeup rely on an intentionally imperfect application.

When should I wear Steampunk makeup?

This highly theatrical and creative look is best reserved for costume parties, Halloween, sci-fi conventions, or themed photoshoots. It is generally too bold and heavily layered for everyday casual wear.

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