Fashion Tips

The Retro Look

December 18, 2014
Retro Look - Hair

The retro-inspired 50s pin up style will never go out of fashion. It’s timeless, classic and sophisticated – and so easy to create. Our wonderfully talented make-up artist and hair stylist, Helen Ainsworth, tells us exactly how to get the retro look. Just watch the video and follow our step by step guide below to achieve this style. Make sure you focus on the eyes and lips for that sultry, elegant look – and don’t forget the head-turning hair do!

Eyes

Use a yellow highlighter powder to conceal any dark circles and instantly illuminate the eye area. Emphasise the eyes by gently drawing eye shadow on to the sockets, blending repeatedly along the crease of the eye to create your desired shape. This will instantly make your eyes stand out! Next, apply a gel eye liner to your lids to strengthen the look, and finish off with some jet black mascara.

Retro Look - Eyes

Cheeks

Contour your cheek bones with a light shadow of peach blusher. Using an angled contour brush will help you achieve the perfect cheek bone! Apply the blusher lightly – you don’t want to end up with an obvious line across your cheek.

Retro Look - Cheeks

Lips

Use a vibrant lip colour to really work the retro look. Shades of orange and red are perfect for this striking look, and will really stand out.

Retro Look - Lips

Hair

Now for the victory rolls! This hair style is vital for the retro look – You’ll be oozing 50s glamour! It may look like a tricky do, but after a couple of attempts, you’ll have mastered it. Simply brush the front of your hair into two sections, with your parting just off-centre. Apply hairspray to each section and roll them up to the top of your head and secure them in place with a few pins.

Next, backcomb the back of your hair and gather into a ponytail. Use the straighteners for a sleek, glossy look. Take a small section of the ponytail and wrap it around the hairband.

Retro Look - Hair

And that’s it! In just a few simple steps, you’ve unleashed your inner vintage vixen. Just slip into an elegant lace dress and take the party by storm.