Beauty Archives: The Roaring 20's
- 3 min reading time
In 2018, a make-up set from the Stone Age was found in Austria. This special find, consisting of clay and a mortar, shows that face painting is centuries old. Even before this discovery, traces of make-up use could be found in, for example, ancient Egypt, where face creams, eyeliner made of coal and even lead were already used by both women and the pharaohs.
Throughout history, makeup has had periods of popularity and rejection. But in the 1920s? There, makeup became the symbol of female self-confidence and freedom. In this edition of Beauty Archives, we dive into the glam of the roaring twenties!
The Rise of Makeup in the 1920s
After the First World War, the image of women changed drastically. Women started working, got more rights and their appearance reflected this new freedom. 1920s make-up symbolized rebellion, femininity and independence. The typical flapper girl – the trendsetter of that time – broke all the rules. She wore short skirts, bare arms, smoked cigarettes, danced to jazz music and of course: she wore striking make-up. This look is also known as the flapper makeup look.
What makeup was popular in the 1920s?
The makeup in the roaring twenties was striking, dramatic and glamorous. The makeup was matte, shiny makeup only came on the market years later. This is what the typical 20's makeup and hair look looked like:
- Pale skin: Women used powder to make their faces as light as possible.
- Dramatic eyes: Dark eye shadow in grey and black tones was applied generously. The dark colour was applied high at the inner corner of the eye and flattened downwards towards the outer corner of the eye. The moving eyelid was left free of colour.
- Round, thin eyebrows: Eyebrows were often shaved and drawn high and round with a thin pencil line. This created a dramatic and sad look.
- Red or berry lips: The most popular lipstick color in the 1920s was deep red or wine red. This was applied in a heart shape to the center of the lips, leaving the outer corners of the mouth uncolored. This created the illusion of a small doll's mouth.
The make-up was often combined with a short bob and wavy haircut , the signature Great Gatsby 20's hair look.
How to create a modern 1920s look?
Want to get started with a flapper makeup look 1920s, but with a modern twist? Here are our tips:
- Use a mattifying primer and foundation for an even, porcelain base.
- Blend gray or black eyeshadow over your eyelid and under your lower lash line for a smokey effect.
- Use an eyebrow pencil to draw a round, soft eyebrow shape.
- Choose a lipstick in dark red or berry purple and apply it from half a centimeter from the outer corner of your mouth for that typical 20s lip. If you find this difficult, draw the outline with a lip liner first.
Want to really go all out? Combine your make-up with a vintage hair accessory or a headband with feathers and glitter, like a real flapper girl. Don't forget your long pearl necklaces and a choker!
Why the Roaring Twenties Still Inspire
The Roaring Twenties marked a turning point in beauty history. It was the first time that makeup truly became a statement, worn with pride and confidence. The style is still beloved today – from Halloween looks to themed parties and even weddings. And let’s be honest: there’s just something magical about those sparkly eyes, dark lips and retro vibes of Great Gatsby makeup.
Shop your roaring twenties look at Boozyshop
Ready to create your own flapper look? At Boozyshop, you'll find everything you need for a modern twist on 1920s makeup. From deep lipsticks to smokey eyeshadow palettes, we've got the tools to channel your inner Gatsby girl.
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