Makeup and Hair for a 1960s Look

Diy 1960’s costume – Stepping back in time to the swinging sixties requires more than just a groovy outfit; it’s all about capturing the era’s iconic makeup and hair. From the bold eyeliner flicks to the perfectly sculpted bouffants, the 1960s aesthetic was all about confidence and a touch of playful rebellion. Let’s dive into the details of recreating this timeless look.

1960s Makeup Characteristics

The 1960s saw a dramatic shift in makeup trends, moving away from the softer looks of previous decades. Think bold colors, defined features, and a focus on creating a flawless, almost porcelain complexion. Eyeliner became a key feature, with thick, winged lines being particularly popular, often extending beyond the outer corners of the eyes for a dramatic “cat-eye” effect.

The resurgence of interest in DIY 1960s costumes, a reflection of cyclical fashion trends and a yearning for simpler times, ironically contrasts with the current cultural obsession with meticulously crafted character costumes. This is starkly evident in the popularity of addams family wednesday costume diy projects, highlighting the shift from broadly defined decades to hyper-specific character representations.

Ultimately, both trends reveal a desire for self-expression through costume, though the level of detail and cultural reference points have dramatically shifted.

Lipstick shades ranged from pale pinks and peaches in the early sixties to bolder reds and corals as the decade progressed. A light dusting of powder provided a matte finish, enhancing the overall polished appearance. Blush was used subtly, often applied to the apples of the cheeks for a natural flush. False eyelashes added to the dramatic effect, particularly for evening looks.

Recreating a Classic 1960s Hairstyle

Achieving a quintessential 1960s hairstyle often involved teasing and backcombing to create volume and height, particularly at the crown. Popular styles included the bouffant, the beehive, and various variations of the flipped bob. Setting the hair required the use of strong-hold hairspray, often applied liberally. Rollers or curlers were essential for achieving the desired curls and waves, depending on the chosen style.

For example, to create a bouffant, hair would be backcombed at the crown, then smoothed over with a brush to create a smooth, voluminous top. Hairspray was essential for holding the style in place. Products like volumizing mousse and setting lotion could be used to add extra hold and texture. For a beehive, the hair was backcombed extensively before being carefully sculpted into a dome shape.

Early vs. Late 1960s Makeup and Hair

The 1960s witnessed a significant evolution in both makeup and hair trends. The early 1960s saw a more natural, understated approach, with softer eyeliner and more muted lipstick shades. Hair was often styled in elegant upswept styles or soft curls. By the late 1960s, however, a bolder, more experimental aesthetic emerged. Think Twiggy’s iconic look: thick, graphic eyeliner, pale lips, and a gamine, cropped haircut.

This contrasted sharply with the earlier styles, showcasing a move towards a more modern and individualistic expression. The shift reflected broader societal changes and the growing influence of youth culture.

Applying a 1960s-Inspired Eye Makeup Look

To achieve a classic 1960s eye look, start with a flawless base. Apply foundation and concealer to even out your skin tone. Next, use a neutral eyeshadow all over the eyelid as a base. Now comes the crucial part: the eyeliner. Use a liquid or gel eyeliner to create a thick line along your upper lash line, extending it outwards and slightly upwards to create a winged effect.

For extra drama, you can also line your lower lash line, connecting it to the wing for a complete cat-eye. Apply several coats of mascara to your upper and lower lashes. For a more intense look, consider adding false eyelashes. This creates a defined, striking eye that is a hallmark of the 1960s makeup style. The effect is a bold, graphic eye that perfectly captures the era’s dramatic flair.

Finding Inspiration and Resources: Diy 1960’s Costume

Embarking on your 1960s costume creation journey requires a blend of inspiration and practical resourcefulness. The decade was a whirlwind of fashion evolution, offering a diverse palette of styles to choose from, from the sleek sophistication of early ’60s silhouettes to the vibrant, playful looks of the late ’60s. Finding the right inspiration and sourcing the materials will be key to bringing your vision to life.Finding the perfect 1960s look starts with immersing yourself in the era’s visual culture.

From the iconic fashion of film stars to the everyday attire captured in photographs, the resources available are vast and exciting. By carefully examining these resources, you can refine your vision and select a style that suits your personal preferences and the overall aesthetic you’re aiming for.

Sources of Inspiration: Visual Archives of the 1960s

Vintage photographs and film provide an unparalleled window into the fashion of the 1960s. Websites like Getty Images and the LIFE photo archives offer extensive collections of images depicting everyday life and high-fashion trends. Movies such as “Breakfast at Tiffany’s” (for Audrey Hepburn’s iconic style) and “Bonnie and Clyde” (for a glimpse into the more rebellious fashion of the era) provide excellent visual references.

Television shows from the period, while sometimes harder to access, also offer a wealth of inspiration; searching for “1960s fashion television shows” on a search engine might reveal some great options.

Sourcing Affordable Fabrics and Materials

Creating an authentic 1960s costume doesn’t require breaking the bank. Thrift stores and vintage shops are treasure troves of affordable fabrics and materials. Look for vintage dresses or skirts that can be repurposed or used as inspiration for your own creations. Online marketplaces like Etsy and eBay also offer a wide range of vintage fabrics, buttons, and trims at competitive prices.

For new materials, consider affordable options such as cotton, polyester blends (popular in the later ’60s), and corduroy. Don’t underestimate the power of simple fabrics; a well-cut dress in a plain cotton can be incredibly stylish with the right accessories.

Adapting Existing Patterns for a 1960s Silhouette, Diy 1960’s costume

Many modern sewing patterns can be adapted to achieve a 1960s look. Key elements to consider include the A-line shape (particularly prevalent in the early to mid-60s), the shift dress (popular throughout the decade), and the use of bold geometric prints and bright colors. When adapting a pattern, focus on altering the neckline, sleeves, and waistline to reflect the stylistic details of the era.

For instance, a simple A-line skirt pattern can be transformed by adding a higher waistline and a slightly flared hem. Referencing vintage patterns (see below) will provide valuable insights into the construction techniques of the era.

A Visual Guide to Utilizing Vintage Sewing Patterns

Finding and using vintage sewing patterns can significantly enhance the authenticity of your 1960s costume. These patterns often include unique design details and construction methods that are difficult to replicate from modern patterns.

• Locating Vintage Patterns: Search online marketplaces (eBay, Etsy), vintage clothing stores, and online auction sites for patterns from the 1960s. Look for patterns from well-known designers or companies of the era. Pay attention to the pattern’s size chart and ensure it matches your measurements.
• Understanding the Pattern Instructions: Vintage patterns often use different terminology and techniques than modern patterns. Take your time to carefully read the instructions and refer to online resources or vintage sewing books for clarification. Many online communities dedicated to vintage sewing offer support and advice.
• Adapting to Modern Fabrics: Vintage patterns may be designed for fabrics that are no longer readily available. Choose a modern fabric that closely matches the weight and drape of the original fabric suggested in the pattern instructions. For example, if the pattern calls for lightweight wool, you might substitute a lightweight cotton or a wool blend.
• Interpreting the Illustrations: Vintage patterns often include detailed illustrations that show how the garment should fit and look. Study these illustrations carefully to understand the intended silhouette and design details. The illustrations often depict the garment on a figure, giving you a clear idea of the finished look.

Q&A

What fabrics are best for a 1960s A-line dress?

Cotton, linen, and lightweight wool are excellent choices, reflecting the popular fabrics of the era. Consider vibrant colors and playful prints.

How can I find authentic 1960s patterns?

Online marketplaces like Etsy and eBay often offer vintage patterns. Alternatively, search for reproduction patterns from reputable sewing companies.

What kind of shoes are ideal for a 1960s look?

Go-go boots are iconic, but Mary Janes, flats, and even kitten heels can also work depending on the specific subculture you’re emulating.

Where can I find affordable vintage accessories?

Thrift stores, flea markets, and online vintage shops are great places to find affordable jewelry, belts, and handbags from the 1960s.