Still love me some 2016 makeup though

2025/10/15 Edited to

... Read moreOkay, so who else is still totally obsessed with the iconic 2016 full beat makeup look? I know I am! There’s just something so fun and unapologetically bold about it. It was a time when makeup was all about making a statement, and honestly, I think we should bring some of that energy back. I recently revisited my favorite elements of this era, and let me tell you, it still hits different! For me, the eyes were always the star, and nothing screamed 2016 like glittery blue eyeshadow. This wasn't just a wash of color; it was often a vibrant, iridescent blue packed with shimmer, sometimes even chunky glitter. To get that intense pop, I always start with a good eyeshadow primer. Then, I press a cream or highly pigmented blue base onto the lid before layering on my favorite blue glitter. A flat brush works wonders for packing on the glitter without too much fallout. And of course, no 2016 eye look was complete without a sharp winged eyeliner. We’re talking about a fierce, dramatic wing that extends almost to the eyebrow! Liquid liner is your best friend here, and if you struggle, try mapping out the shape with an angled brush and powder first. Don't forget a generous coat of mascara and maybe even some falsies to truly open up the eye. Then there’s the lips – oh, the lips! The dark brown ombré lipstick was a signature. Forget subtle, we were going for impact. I usually start by lining my lips with a dark brown pencil, slightly over-lining for a fuller effect. Then, I apply a lighter, warmer brown liquid lipstick to the center of my lips and gently blend it outwards with my finger or a small brush, making sure the dark liner transitions smoothly into the lighter shade. A touch of gloss in the very center can add dimension, but a matte finish was often preferred back then. It's such a sophisticated yet edgy look that perfectly complements those bold eyes. And let’s not forget the details that really tied the whole look together. The rise of faux freckles was huge! A little bit of brow gel or a freckle pen dabbed lightly across the nose and cheeks added that touch of 'effortless cool' to an otherwise very done-up face. It was all about contrast and unexpected elements. And for those of us who dared to accessorize, a lip piercing was often part of the aesthetic, adding another layer of edge to the overall vibe. I even paired my look with some blue earrings and a light blue top to really lean into the color palette. The beauty of the 2016 full beat was its confidence. It wasn't about blending in; it was about standing out. While some might think it's 'too much' now, I believe there's still so much inspiration to draw from. It’s a fantastic way to experiment with color, embrace dramatic techniques, and honestly, just have fun with your makeup! Give it a try – you might just fall back in love with your inner 2016 self!