Creating a Debbie Harry (Blondie) Inspired Makeup Look: A Step-by-Step Tutorial
Debbie Harry, the iconic lead singer of the band Blondie, is renowned for her distinctive and influential makeup style of the late 1970s and early 1980s. This tutorial will guide you through the process of recreating her signature look, which is a perfect blend of punk, glam, and timeless elegance.
Materials Needed
- Instant radiance foundation
- Brow pencil (e.g., Smashbox Brow Tech to Go)
- Brow gel
- Eyeshadow palette (white, gray, dark gray)
- Black eyeliner pencil
- Mascara (e.g., Clinique High Lengths)
- Concealer
- Blush (e.g., Ilamasqua Sophie)
- Brightening powder (e.g., Laura Mercier Secret Brightening Powder)
- Lipstick (e.g., Laura Mercier Sheer Lipstick in Baby Lips)
- Optional: Lip gloss
Step-by-Step Guide
Foundation and Skin Preparation
Start by applying an instant radiance foundation to achieve the dewy and shimmering skin that was characteristic of the 1970s and 1980s look. Use a Real Techniques expert face brush to ensure even coverage and a natural finish. Focus on areas that need extra coverage to maintain a flawless base[3].
Brow Definition
Use a brow pencil like Smashbox Brow Tech to Go to fill in your brows. Concentrate on the outer corners, as Debbie Harry’s brows were often fuller and less neat at the front. Finish by brushing a brow gel through your brows to add texture and keep them in place[3].
Eye Makeup
For the eyes, you will need a small eyeshadow palette with white, gray, and dark gray shades.
- Base Color: Apply the white eyeshadow all over the lid to create a shimmery, silvery base. Blend well to ensure an even application[3].
- Socket Color: Use the gray eyeshadow to define the socket area, starting from the outside and blending it about a third of the way across the lid and along the lash line. Blend thoroughly to avoid harsh lines[3].
- Outer Corner: Apply the dark gray eyeshadow to the outer corners of the eyes, intensifying the color to create a dramatic point. Also, apply a small amount of the darkest color just under the eyes on the outside corner to enhance the feline shape[3].
Eyeliner
Using a black eyeliner pencil, line the entire waterline to achieve a bold, inky look. Tightline the upper lash line and extend the liner to the inner corner of the eye to complete the feline shape that Debbie Harry is famous for[3].
Mascara
Apply generous amounts of mascara, such as Clinique High Lengths in Black, to intensify the eye makeup and add volume to your lashes[3].
Concealer and Brightening Powder
Use concealer to tidy up any areas under the eyes where the eyeliner or eyeshadow may have smudged. Apply a small amount of brightening powder, like Laura Mercier Secret Brightening Powder, under the eyes to maintain a radiant look without adding shine to other areas of the face[3].
Blush
Apply a blush, such as Ilamasqua Sophie, high up on the cheeks and extending onto the temple. This placement was typical of the late 1970s and early 1980s makeup trends[3].
Lipstick
Finish the look with a lipstick. Choose a shade like Laura Mercier Sheer Lipstick in Baby Lips, which is a soft, natural color that complements the overall look. You can also add a light layer of lip gloss for an extra touch of 1970s glamour, but keep it subtle to maintain the authenticity of the look[3].
Final Touches
Sweep your hair to one side, as Debbie Harry often wore her hair, to complete the iconic look.
Most Important Facts About Debbie Harry (Blondie)
While the tutorial focuses on recreating Debbie Harry’s makeup look, here are some key facts about her:
- Debbie Harry is the lead singer of the new wave and punk rock band Blondie.
- Born: Angela Trimble on July 1, 1945, in Miami, Florida.
- Career: Blondie formed in 1974 and gained significant popularity in the late 1970s and early 1980s with hits like „Heart of Glass,” „Call Me,” and „The Tide Is High.”
- Influence: Debbie Harry is a fashion and music icon known for her unique style, which blends punk, glam, and pop elements.
- Awards and Recognition: Blondie has been inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and has won numerous awards, including a Grammy Award.
- Solo Work: Apart from her work with Blondie, Debbie Harry has also released solo albums and collaborated with other artists.
- Impact on Culture: Debbie Harry’s style and music have influenced many artists and continue to be celebrated for their originality and enduring appeal.