The chronicle of beauty trends encapsulates fluid changes within social and cultural paradigms, evolving from the understated sophistication of the 1920s to the diverse and bold expressions that define today’s landscape. Makeup continues to be an essential medium for articulating personal stories and reflecting broader changes in society. As we progress, the beauty field continues to innovate, curating new trends and infusing traditional aesthetics with modern essence.
Each era brings a unique flair to beautiful tapestries, and some iconic styles have been reinvented to resonate with modern sensibilities. A series of beauty trends continues to evolve, and the next decade could usher in a wave of pioneering changes that reshape traditional beauty norms. The 2020s usher in a series of potential trends that reflect the zeitgeist and highlight common aesthetic trends and breakthroughs in the beauty industry.
1920s: The era of bold elegance
The 1920s were marked by bold makeup choices that reflected the spirit of freedom of the era, embodied by the typical style of flappers.
- Eyes: A signature smokey eye look created with rich kohl.
- Lips: Characterized by a rich red tone, which defined the fashion trends of the time.
- Hairstyle: Finger waves added elegance to the ubiquitous bob cut and defined the beauty ethos of the time.
1930s: The essence of elegance
The 1930s saw the beginning of a more modest yet elegant approach to beauty.
- Eyebrows: Thin, precisely arched eyebrows are emphasized and often recreated after shaving.
- Eyeshadow: Soft, muted shades provided a departure from the vibrant selections of the past decade.
- Lips: Deep pink shades are popular and complement minimalist eye makeup.
- Hair: Short styles reflect the sophisticated aesthetic of the era, with groomed eyebrows and make-up emphasizing the delicate arches.
1940s: Beauty rooted in practicality
The 1940s introduced a more practical aesthetic perspective.
- Eyeshadow: Subtle tones such as beige and light brown are popular.
- Eyebrows: Pencil enhancement for a fuller, defined look.
- Mascara: Use sparingly to naturally emphasize your eyelashes.
- Lips: The iconic bold red, especially Victory Red lipstick, symbolized the indomitable spirit of the era.
- Skin tone: Achieve a matte finish by applying plenty of face powder.
- The decade’s signature victory roll reflected that dynamic spirit.
1950s: Glamor inspired by the silver screen
The 1950s were heavily influenced by the glamor of Hollywood.
- Makeup from this era featured bright lip shades and innovative winged eyeliner, adding a touch of flair akin to the movie stars of the time.
- A creamy foundation provided the backdrop for these hallmark features, encapsulating the vibrant spirit of the decade.
1960s: The dawn of eye-centered beauty
The 1960s saw a marked emphasis on ocular features.
- Upper and lower eyelashes: Accentuate your eyes with voluminous false eyelashes for an impactful look.
- Mascara: Apply generously to highlight these enhancements.
- Eyeshadow: I used pure white to spotlight the eyelids.
- Lip color: Keep it subtle and choose soft pink and peach tones.
- Eyebrows: Made with a refined arch and thin tail, embodying the aesthetics of the era.
1970s: Embracing naturalism
The 1970s contrasted bright fashion with a more natural approach to beauty.
- Hair trends: Long, afro, or softly wavy styles were the norm.
- Makeup Choice: Shimmering, muted eyeshadow, minimal mascara, sheer lip gloss, and a touch of blush to accentuate glowing skin and subtly shaped eyebrows.
1980s: Brilliant colors
The 1980s are remembered for its vibrant and aesthetic style.
- Eyeshadow: Use bright, bold colors and apply boldly to your brow bone.
- Eyebrows: Keep them natural, thick and full.
- Cheek: Apply generously depending on the darkness of your eye makeup.
- Lip gloss: A glossy finish that enhances the vibrancy of your makeup.
1990s: The return of elegant minimalism
The ’90s saw a return to a more elegant, understated make-up ethos.
- Mascara: Use sparingly to subtly highlight your eyelashes.
- Eyeshadow: Soft, neutral tones are preferred.
- Lips: Defined with liner in shades of brown or pink, ranging from soft nude to intense burgundy.
2000s: The era of polished eyebrows
The early 2000s were characterized by:
- She favored thin, perfectly groomed eyebrows, cool-toned shimmery eyeshadow and glossy lips, later transitioning to smoky eyeshadow and more defined eyebrows.
2010s: Focus on distinctive features
The last 10 years are defined as:
- Enhancement of facial contours with bold brows and fuller lips are emerging as prominent beauty trends.
2020s: Towards ethical beauty and simple aesthetics
This decade has been characterized by:
- The trend toward sustainable beauty products and a minimalist approach to makeup, driven by a skin-care-first philosophy and adjustments to face mask wearing.
Predict tomorrow’s beauty trends
As we predict the future, beauty trends are expected to oscillate between minimalism and bold expression, serving as an avenue for personal expression and exploration. The coming years may see a greater emphasis on authenticity, celebrating individual beauty, and developing transparent and innovative beauty solutions that emphasize individuality and environmental stewardship.