Indulging in the evolution of makeup reveals various ways to craft both style and self-expression. For over two decades, makeup artists have used people’s faces to create intricate designs to showcase their personalities and styles.
Trends have transformed into various glamorous and creative ways to show advancements and diverse beauty ideals.
Distinctive looks over the years influenced by icons of the era, music, fashion, and politics are still living up to the present time. Social media still recognizes the beauty of constant transformation when it comes to makeup.
Looking into these trends, let’s travel back in time to different makeup trends from the 1920s to the 2020s to see how artistry influenced designers through the test of seasons.
1920s: Bold and dramatic
Bold and dramatic makeup are in during the 1920s. To build this kind of look, women wore a heavy kohl around their eyes to achieve that smoky glamorous look.
Pale skin was in terms of fashion, so many went for a powdered, matte finish. Lipstick in dark shades, like deep reds and plums, was popular, and often applied to create a “cupid’s bow” shape on the lips.
1930s: Hollywood Glamour
In the 1930s, Hollywood’s sway over makeup trends grew. This look has prioritized a softer, more feminine appearance, diverging from the bold styles of the previous decade.
Eyebrows were plucked thin and penciled in with high arches. The foundation is also used to achieve a flawless complexion, and blush is applied to the apples of the cheeks for a healthy glow. Lips were painted in more natural shades of rose and raspberry.
1940s: The War-Time Look
In the 1940s, the makeup took a turn with the practical due to World War II. Women were encouraged to maintain a simple beauty routine.
A natural makeup look was preferred, with a light foundation and a subtle flush of color on the cheeks. Red lipstick, however, remained a staple, symbolizing strength and patriotism.
1950s: The Age of Glamour
The 1950s was all about glamour and sophistication. Makeup became a critical part of a woman’s daily routine. Fuller eyebrows made a comeback, and eyeliner was used to create a winged look.
The complexion was kept matte, and blush was applied to contour the cheeks slightly. Bright red lipstick was the signature of this decade.
1960s: Mod and Colorful
The 1960s introduced the mod look, characterized by bold, graphic eye makeup. Eyeshadow in pastel shades was popular, and mascara was applied heavily to both the top and bottom lashes, sometimes false lashes were used for an even more dramatic effect.
Lips were kept more subdued, with pale pinks and nudes being popular choices.
1970s: Natural and Glowing
The 1970s makeup trend leaned towards a more natural look. The “hippie” movement influenced this trend, emphasizing natural beauty. Sun-kissed skin was in, so bronzer became popular.
Eyeshadow in earthy tones, like browns and greens, matched this natural vibe. Glossy, nude lips were preferred over the matte, bold colors of previous decades.
1980s: Bold and Bright
The 1980s were a time of excess, and makeup was no exception. Bright eyeshadows, blush, and lipsticks in neon and vibrant colors were all the rage.
Eyebrows were full and bushy, and heavy contouring with blush was common to define the cheekbones. It was all about making a statement.
1990s: The Grunge Influence
The 1990s saw a shift towards a more grunge and minimalist aesthetic. Makeup was either very minimal or very bold.
The era popularized matte skin, dark lipstick, especially browns and purples, and smudged eyeliner. Thin eyebrows were also a significant trend of this decade.
2000s: The Glam Reboot
The early 2000s brought back the glamour but with a modern twist. Shimmery and metallic eyeshadows were popular, paired with thick, dramatic eyelashes.
Glossy lips made a huge comeback, often in pink and coral shades. The brows regained thickness, moving away from the thin arches of the ’90s.
2010s: The Instagram Era
The year 2010 was heavily influenced by social media, particularly Instagram. This decade saw the rise of contouring, highlighting, and the bold eyebrow trend.
Makeup became about achieving a flawless, photo-ready finish. Liquid matte lipsticks in nude and bold colors were essentials in everyone’s makeup bag.
2020s: Sustainable and Minimal Beauty
As we move into the 2020s, the trend is shifting towards sustainable and inclusive beauty products. Makeup is becoming more about enhancing one’s natural beauty rather than covering it up, with a trend towards minimal makeup or “no-makeup” makeup looks.
The focus is also on products that are kind to the skin and the environment. Brands are expanding their shade ranges to cater to all skin tones, reflecting a more inclusive approach to beauty.
Through each decade, makeup trends have evolved. As we look forward to future trends, it’s clear that makeup will continue to be a powerful form of self-expression and creativity.
