Hello again! I love learning the history behind specific products, and one product that can really dress up any look is lipstick. It’s a powerful accessory with a rich history. Let’s take a look at how lipstick has evolved during part of the 20th century. If you want to learn the history of lipstick all the way back to Ancient Egypt, visit https://www.bustle.com/articles/190243-the-history-of-red-lipstick-from-ancient-egypt-to-taylor-swift-everything-in-between.
1910’s
In the 1910’s, wearing prominent makeup was looked down upon. Women would use little pots of red rouge and thoroughly blend the color on their eyes, cheeks, and lips. Eventually, in 1915, cylinder shaped containers were invented by Maurice Levy.
1920’s
In the 1920’s, lipstick became part of women’s daily beauty routine. It was reasonably priced and easily produced. Lipsticks were worn dark and dramatic with heavy accentuation on the cupid’s bow. Stencils were even created to achieve this look. Clara Bow is the perfect example of this trend. In 1923, James Bruce Mason Jr. invented the tube that swiveled up. Women looked up to Hollywood stars, recreating their makeup looks. Popular colors were often dramatic shades of dark reds, browns, and plums. Popular companies included Chanel, Elizabeth Arden, and Estée Lauder.
1930’s
The 1930s were a moody and elegant time for makeup. Lipsticks often came in matte finishes, and deep plums and burgundy colors were popular. Max Factor, a popular makeup artist for Hollywood stars, started selling lip gloss to the public that was once only available to actresses. Even during the Great Depression, lipstick was an affordable “necessity” for women.
1940’s
During the time of World War Two, many “unnecessary” products stopped being produced. Companies that once produced hairpins began producing bolts. Women were forced to takeover the factory jobs of men while they were fighting overseas. This is where “Rosie the Riveter” originated. Since many materials were rationed, lipsticks had plastic or paper tubes instead of metal. Popular colors were bright, patriotic reds. Women were encouraged to wear lipstick to boost moral.
1950’s
Grace Kelly, Marilyn Monroe, Audrey Hepburn and Elizabeth Taylor were the Hollywood actresses that America looked to for beauty inspiration. Bolder red and pink shades were exceptionally popular. Revlon’s Cherries in the Snow was a popular shade. During the 1950’s, Hazel Bishop created a successful ‘kiss-proof’ lipstick. Many brands began creating their own versions after that.
1970’s
The 1970’s is the next decade where lipsticks took a turn. Flavored lipstick which we all know as Lip Smackers was created by Bonnie Bell in 1973. Neutral and brown shades became popular during this era.
See? Isn’t lipstick pretty interesting? One of my favorite brands, Besame Cosmetics, creates vintage reproduction colors that are based of of actual shades from specific eras. Visit https://besamecosmetics.com/ to explore the shades (Chocolate Kiss is my favorite)!
Classically, Sofia.