Cat eye makeup has been a beloved trend for decades, adding a touch of elegance and allure to any look. While the classic cat eye remains a staple, vintage-inspired variations have recently made a comeback. Drawing inspiration from iconic beauty icons of the past, these cat eye makeup ideas combine nostalgia with modern techniques. Let’s explore a collection makeup ideas that capture the timeless beauty of eras gone by.
Vintage Inspired Cat Eye Makeup
I. The Classic Audrey Hepburn Wing:
No discussion of vintage-inspired cat eye makeup is complete without paying homage to the queen of elegance, Audrey Hepburn. Recreate her iconic winged eyeliner look by using a liquid eyeliner pen to create a thin line along the upper lash line, extending it outward and slightly upward. To amplify the retro effect, consider using jet-black or deep-brown eyeliner for a bold yet sophisticated appearance.
II. Marilyn Monroe’s Sultry Feline Flick:
Marilyn Monroe was renowned for her glamorous and seductive beauty, and her signature feline flick eyeliner is no exception. Start by applying a neutral eyeshadow base, then use a gel or pencil eyeliner to create a thick line along the upper lash line, extending it outward and upward in a dramatic wing. Finish the look by adding a coat or two of volumizing mascara to make your lashes pop.
III. Brigitte Bardot’s Soft and Smoky Cat Eye:
Embrace Brigitte Bardot’s effortless sex appeal with a soft and smoky cat eye. Begin by applying a taupe or light brown eyeshadow on the eyelid and blending it into the crease. Next, using a pencil eyeliner, create a thick line along the upper lash line and gently smudge it with a smudging brush or cotton swab. This technique creates a smoky effect that exudes sensuality and mystery.
IV. Twiggy’s Mod-Inspired Lower Lash Line:
The ’60s brought us Twiggy, the iconic British model known for her doe eyes and mod-inspired makeup. To channel her retro charm, use a liquid or gel eyeliner to draw a thin line along the lower lash line, extending it slightly past the outer corner of the eye. This style elongates the eye shape, giving you a wide-eyed, doll-like appearance. Finish the look with mascara on both the upper and lower lashes for extra definition.
V. 1930s Hollywood Glamour:
Step back in time to the golden age of Hollywood with a vintage-inspired cat eye that harks back to the 1930s. Begin by creating a bold, elongated wing along the upper lash line, using a liquid or gel eyeliner. Then, with a small brush, smudge a dark eyeshadow into the outer corner of the wing, extending it slightly into the crease. This technique adds depth and drama to your eyes, creating a sultry and glamorous effect reminiscent of the silver screen sirens.
Vintage-inspired cat eye makeup ideas allow us to revisit the beauty trends of the past and incorporate them into our modern-day looks. From Audrey Hepburn’s timeless elegance to Twiggy’s mod charm, each style offers a unique twist on the classic cat eye. Whether you prefer a clean and crisp wing or a sultry smoky eye, these vintage-inspired variations are sure to elevate your makeup game.
Experiment with different techniques, colors, and eras to find the perfect cat eye look that captures the essence of your favorite bygone era.
So, grab your eyeliner, channel your inner beauty icon, and let your eyes tell a tale of timeless beauty with a retro twist.