Era-based Makeup Styles

Looking back on history, every era has had its unique take on beauty and makeup. Styles have evolved tremendously, from the natural looks of the early 20th century to the glamorous, full makeup of the 'Golden Age of Hollywood.' Through this journey of exploring era-based makeup styles, we will see how women have used makeup as a form of expression and empowerment. Let's take a stroll down memory lane and revisit the most standout beauty trends of past decades. This enlightening journey of makeup history will give us a vintage look at how societal events influenced the way women presented themselves.

1920s: The Roaring Twenties and the Rise of the Flapper Style

The 1920s was a vibrant era marked by significant social and political change. Women gained the right to vote, and they were beginning to assert their independence in numerous other ways, including through fashion and beauty. The iconic Flapper style emerged, characterized by the heavy use of dark, dramatic makeup.

The so-called Flapper girls were known for their bold lipstick choices, with crimson, deep reds, and dark cherries being the most popular shades. Kohl-rimmed eyes were another standout feature of the Flapper look, aiming to make a bold statement.

Another major trend of the era was thin, dramatically arched eyebrows, a style recreated and brought back into mainstream fashion by Hollywood celebrities today.

1950s: The Golden Age of Hollywood and Bombshell Beauty

The 1950s marked the birth of the 'Golden Age of Hollywood,' and with it came the era of glamorous makeup styles. The style was heavily influenced by movie stars such as Marilyn Monroe, Audrey Hepburn, and Elizabeth Taylor.

The 'cat eye' became a popular look in the '50s, achieved by dramatically winging out the eyeliner. This was paired with bold, red lipstick to create a timeless, seductive look that still resonates with makeup aficionados today.

Foundation was used to achieve a flawless complexion, often coupled with a soft pink blush on the cheeks. Unlike the 1920s, a fuller brow style was preferred in the 1950s.

1980s: The Era of Pop Music and Bright Colors

The 1980s was an era that embraced everything bold and vibrant. Pop music played a substantial role in defining the fashion and beauty trends of the decade.

Makeup was characterized by the bold use of colors. Bright eyeshadow palettes, combined with heavy blush and neon-colored lipstick, ruled the era. Makeup was used to make a statement, and more was always considered better.

When it came to eye makeup, heavily applied mascara and bold eyeliner were must-haves, with celebrities like Madonna leading these trends. This era's obsession with boldness and excess in makeup application is often a much-loved theme for makeup recreation now.

Tracing back these era-based makeup styles, it is evident that each decade has its unique signature. From the dark, dramatic makeup of the flappers in the 1920s, the glamorous styles of the 1950s Hollywood, to the bold colors of the 1980s, every era left its imprint on makeup history. Makeup has always been a reflection of the times, influenced by social movements, political climates, and pop culture. Vintage looks continue to inspire us today, making makeup more than just a beauty product, but an art form and a means of self-expression. Here's to powerful women, and the diverse ways they choose to present themselves through makeup, across history and now.