60s Makeup: How to Recreate This Timeless Retro Glam

Let’s be honest—there’s just something magical about 60s makeup. It’s bold, playful, and honestly… kind of empowering. The big lashes, the graphic liner, the crisp crease—it’s drama in the best way. And if you’ve ever wanted to recreate that dreamy, mod vibe? You’re in the right place.

In this step-by-step tutorial, I’ll walk you through how to pull off a 60s-inspired look using modern products (and a little patience). It’s based on one of those Vogue-style vintage glam shots—full of earthy tones, soft skin, and that unmistakable eye look.

Let’s get into it.

Step 1: Flawless, Matte Skin First

Think clean, perfected skin—but nothing too dewy or glowy.

Start with a full-coverage foundation and brighten the center of your face with a concealer one or two shades lighter. Focus on under your eyes, your forehead, and your chin.

Pro tip: Blend it all in with a soft brush, like a foundation or blush brush—whatever feels best in your hands. Then set everything with a light dusting of powder. You want a soft-matte finish—not dry, but definitely not shiny.

Step 2: A Little Contour, A Little Color

We’re not going heavy on the contour here. The 60s were all about the eyes, so just softly sculpt your cheekbones and jawline with a cool-toned contour.

For blush, a peachy rose works perfectly. It adds just enough warmth and color without stealing the show from your eyes.

You can skip highlighter—or go super light. A bit of glow on the cheekbones is fine, but don’t go full strobe.

Step 3: Time to Build Those Iconic 60s Eyes

This is the fun part—and honestly, what makes 60s makeup so unique.

Start with a white or pearly shadow all over the lid. It should make your eyes pop instantly.

Add a dingy green or muted yellow-gold in the crease for that earthy, vintage vibe.

Take a small brush and slowly build a bold crease with black or gray shadow. Focus on the outer and inner corners to create that graphic look.

Soften the edges just a bit with a bronze tone.

Bring the color down to your lower lash line for a fully framed eye.

Optional: Want those sharp edges? Use a flat brush and some concealer or pencil base to clean things up.

Step 4: Liner and Lashes — The Heart of 60s Makeup

This is where the drama lives.

Use a creamy pencil or gel to line your upper lash line. Start thin in the inner corner and build to a wing.

Dot the lower lash line to fake spiky, “doll-like” lashes—it’s weirdly easy and seriously cool.

Layer your liner. Pencil first, then liquid or gel on top. This gives you precision and intensity.

Now for lashes:

Go for fluffy falsies like Ardell’s Double Demi Wispies. Not too long—but full.

Load up on bottom mascara too. Use a small wand so you don’t smudge, and really get those lashes defined and separated.

Step 5: Brows & Lips — Keep It Balanced

Brows in the 60s weren’t super bold. Think soft, slightly arched, and natural. Just fill in any sparse spots—don’t carve them out like it’s 2016.

For lips:

Lightly overline your Cupid’s bow with a nude or peach liner (Jackie’s fave is Charlotte Tilbury’s Iconic Nude).

Fill in with a rose-pink or nude lipstick—something soft that compliments the eyes.

Finish strong: Give your look a good spritz of setting spray to lock everything in place. Then, go ahead and style your hair however you’re feeling—maybe a teased ponytail, a soft flip, or even a full-on beehive if you’re feeling extra vintage. Whatever you choose, lean into the vibe and have fun with it. You’re not just recreating a look—you’re bringing a whole era back to life.

Recap: How to Do 60s Makeup in 5 Simple Steps

Matte Base: Brighten the center of your face with foundation + concealer, then set it down.

Subtle Sculpt: Soft contour, peachy blush, light highlight (if any).

Earthy Eyeshadow: White lids, olive or yellow tones, bold crease with clean edges.

Dramatic Liner & Lashes: Spiky lower lashes, layered liner, fluffy falsies.

Balanced Lips & Brows: Soft nude lips and natural brows for contrast.

Final Thoughts

Here’s the thing about 60s makeup—it’s timeless because it plays with contrast. Clean skin, bold eyes, soft lips. It’s dramatic but not overwhelming. Structured but still playful. And the best part? Once you get the hang of that crease and liner combo, it becomes super fun to wear (and surprisingly fast to do).

So grab your favorite white shadow, channel your inner vintage icon, and let your eyes do all the talking.