The History Of Vintage Beauty Trends

Hello lovelies!

Since I’m a child, I’ve always been fascinated by the beauty standards of the past. I’ve always been amazed at the many changes in fashion and beauty standards, and the way they moved really fast.

Indeed, the 20th century witnessed dramatic shifts in beauty standards. These changes were driven by cultural revolutions, technological advancements, and social changes. Each decade from the 1920s to the 1980s had its distinct beauty trends. All those trends reflected the zeitgeist of the time.

In this article, we will delve into the history of vintage beauty trends. In particular, I will highlight how these trends shaped and were shaped by the broader cultural landscape.

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Rouge and Radiance: The Roaring 20s Beauty Scene

The 1920s are often referred to as the Roaring Twenties. It was a decade of liberation and transformation, especially for women. Following the end of World War I, society as a whole experienced a period of economic prosperity and cultural dynamism.

Also, this decade saw the emergence of the flapper. She was a symbol of modernity and rebellion against traditional norms represented by the opulent Gibson Girl.

Makeup and Skincare

In the 1920s, women embraced makeup as a tool of empowerment and self-expression. Gone were the Victorian Times when makeup was considered as a tool of Satan!

The beauty industry flourished, and brands like Max Factor and Maybelline became household names. The quintessential flapper look included:

• Eyes: Dark, kohl-rimmed eyes with smokey eyeshadow were popular. Women used products like the newly invented mascara to enhance their lashes.
• Lips: Bold, cupid’s bow lips in deep red or berry shades were in vogue. Moreover, lipstick became a staple in women’s beauty routines.
• Skin: Pale skin was still preferred. Thus, this was achieved through the use of powders. Also, women applied blush sparingly to add a touch of color to the cheeks.

Hairstyles

The bob haircut became iconic during this decade. This was due especially to the popularity of silent film actresses such as Louise Brooks or Clara Bow. Women cut their hair short as a symbol of independence and modernity.

Also, other popular styling techniques included finger waves and marcel waves. Those hairstyles added a touch of glamour to the short haircuts.

Glamour Waves and Red Lips: Hollywood’s Impact in the 30s

The 1930s were marked by the Great Depression. Yet, the allure of Hollywood actors provided an escape from the harsh realities of everyday life. Movie stars like Greta Garbo and Marlene Dietrich became instant beauty icons. Thus, they helped to influence trends across the globe.

Makeup and Skincare

• Eyes: The emphasis shifted to more natural-looking eyebrows, which were often thin and highly arched. Also, women tend to favor eyeshadow in softer tones like brown and gray.
• Lips: The colors softened. Indeed, shades of rose, raspberry, and coral became more popular. A more natural look replaced the rounded lip shape.
• Skin: Women desired a flawless complexion. Thus, they used foundations and powders to achieve a smooth, matte finish. Moreover, the introduction of color movies during that decade also influenced the need for more subtle makeup.

Hairstyles

In the 1930s, hairstyles were more sophisticated and polished. Women achieved soft curls and waves by using rollers and pin curls. Moreover, they often wore their hair shoulder-length that they styled in elegant updos for formal occasions.

Wartime Practicality: The Glamour of the 40s

The 1940s saw the domination of World War II, which had a profound impact on all aspects of life. And this included beauty trends. Indeed, the focus shifted to practicality and resilience since women playing a significant role in the workforce.

For instance, many women worked in factories to support the wartime effort. Marilyn Monroe would be one of those women before she became famous!

Makeup and Skincare

• Eyes: Makeup remained understated yet defined. Mascara and eyeliner were used to enhance the eyes. As for eyeshadows, they were kept neutral.
• Lips: Red lipstick became a symbol of patriotism and morale. Brands like Elizabeth Arden created shades specifically for women in the armed forces.
• Skin: Skincare routines were simplified due to rationing. Therefore, cold creams and moisturizers were used to maintain skin health. Women often made beauty products with what they had.

Hairstyles

Victory rolls and pin curls became popular hairstyles. Indeed, they embodied a sense of femininity and strength during harsh times. Hair was often styled up to keep it out of the way while working. For instance, the iconic “Rosie the Riveter” look featured a bandana, combining practicality with style.

Poodle Skirts and Pomade: 1950s Style Icons and Beauty Habits

There’s sunshine after rain! Indeed, the 1950s were a decade of economic growth and cultural optimism. The end of the war brought a renewed focus on domesticity and traditional gender roles.

Thus, beauty trends reflected this shift. Indeed, they emphasized femininity, curves, and glamour. You’ll just have to look at the wonderful bombshell of that era: the great Marilyn Monroe herself!

Makeup and Skincare

• Eyes: Winged eyeliner became a defining feature of the 1950s makeup look. This was inspired by Hollywood stars like Audrey Hepburn. Also, eyeshadow in pastel colors was popular.
• Lips: Red lipstick remained a staple, but pinks and corals also gained popularity. The “Hollywood lip” with a defined cupid’s bow was a key trend.
• Skin: Women still desired a flawless and radiant complexion. Thus, they would use foundations and powders to achieve a smooth finish. Also, skincare routines included cold creams (think of Pond’s), cleansing lotions, and emerging sunscreen products. Remember, Marilyn Monroe would never go out without sunscreen to preserve her skin!

Hairstyles

The 1950s saw the rise of voluminous hairstyles. Indeed, women styled their hair in soft curls, with rollers or perms.

The poodle cut and beehive were particularly popular. Those hairstyles required significant maintenance and setting sprays. Consequently, hairsprays emerged and became massively popular during that decade.

Psychedelic Swirls and Flower Power: The 1960s Revolution

The 1960s were a decade of social revolution and cultural experimentation. Beauty trends reflected the diverse influences of the Mod movement, the hippie counterculture, and the growing influence of global fashion. The 1960s also started the emergence of unisex trends, reflected by the rise of unisex scents for instance.

Makeup and Skincare

• Eyes: The Mod look was epitomized by models like Twiggy. It featured bold eye makeup with thick eyeliner, white eyeshadow, and false lashes. The doe-eyed look became iconic.
• Lips: Pale lips contrasted sharply with the dramatic eye makeup. Women favored nude and light pink shades.
• Skin: The emphasis was on natural-looking skin. Therefore, women used lightweight foundations and tinted moisturizers to achieve a dewy, fresh-faced look. Moreover, the use of skincare products like toners and moisturizers added a touch of sophistication to skincare routines.

Hairstyles

The 1960s saw a range of different hairstyles. From the sleek bob à la Jackie Kennedy to long, flowing hippie locks, women could choose their tribe!

Moreover, thanks to movie starts like Brigitte Bardot, the beehive remained popular in the early part of the decade. However, the latter years of the 1960s saw the rise of more natural and relaxed styles.

Natural and Disco Glam: The 70s Revolution

The 1970s saw the emergence of the juxtaposition of natural beauty and disco extravagance. This decade embraced individuality and self-expression. And the diversity of beauty trends reflected this as well!

Makeup and Skincare

• Eyes: The natural look featured minimal eye makeup, with soft earth tones and subtle eyeliner. In contrast, disco makeup included bright, metallic eyeshadows and glitter.
• Lips: Nude and earth-toned lip colors were popular for a natural look. However, bold, glossy lips were a hallmark of disco fashion.
• Skin: Healthy, glowing skin was in vogue. Skincare routines included natural products like aloe vera and honey. Moreover, the rise of health consciousness led to a focus on holistic beauty, including diet and exercise.

Hairstyles

Hairstyles in the 1970s ranged from the sleek and straight to the voluminous and curly. Also, the afro became a symbol of black pride and cultural identity. Farrah Fawcett’s feathered hairstyle also gained immense popularity, influencing women across the globe.

Bold Shadows and Bigger Hair: The Dramatic Flair of the 80s

The 1980s were a decade of excess and boldness. The vibrant beauty trends of the time perfectly reflected this. With the rise of music videos and MTV, celebrities and pop stars like Madonna and Cyndi Lauper became influential beauty icons.

Makeup and Skincare

• Eyes: Bold and colorful eye makeup defined the 1980s. Bright eyeshadows in neon shades, heavy eyeliner, and dramatic lashes were all the rage. Also, the smoky eye look gained popularity.
• Lips: Lip colors were equally bold, with shades of bright red, pink, and even purple making a statement. Lip gloss added an extra layer of shine and glamour.
• Skin: The pursuit of a perfect complexion continued with the use of foundations, concealers, and powders. Also, women applied blush generously on their cheeks to achieve a healthy, vibrant look. Skincare routines became more sophisticated. Indeed, they included a wide array of products, from anti-aging creams to acne treatments.

Hairstyles

Big hair was the hallmark of 1980s beauty. Women used perms, crimping, and volumizing products to achieve voluminous hairstyles. The mullet, worn by both men and women, became a cultural phenomenon. Also, hair accessories like scrunchies, headbands, and oversized bows were also popular.

And I have a confession to make. I’m a 1980s baby, and my love for scrunchies and headbands never really left me!

Mining the Past: The Resurgence and Adaptation of Vintage Beauty

The history of vintage beauty trends from the 1920s to the 1980s showcases a fascinating evolution of styles. Those were influenced by cultural, social, and technological changes.

Also, each decade brought its unique aesthetic and reflected the broader cultural movements of the time. From the liberated flapper look of the 1920s to the bold, glamorous styles of the 1980s, beauty trends have continuously evolved. They shaped and were being shaped by the zeitgeist of each era.

Understanding these trends offers insight into the ever-changing landscape of beauty and fashion. Also, they highlight how historical context shapes our concepts of beauty. That’s why we continue to evolve in cycles in beauty trends because we’ll always revisit one of these decade!

Well, that’s it for today! What do you think of the history of vintage beauty trends? What’s your favorite vintage beauty trend? Feel free to share in the comments below!

Take care, lovelies!

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To go further on this topic:

Vintage Secrets: Hollywood Beauty and Hollywood Diet and Fitness: Vintage Secrets by Laura Slater

Westmore Beauty Book — A Complete 1950s Guide to Vintage Makeup, Hairstyling and Beauty Techniques by Bud Westmore