Throughout history, beauty trends have reflected the cultural, social, and technological changes of their time. From ancient rituals to contemporary innovations, these trends have shaped how we perceive beauty. Here are 20 of the most iconic and unique beauty trends, their historical context, tips to recreate them, and their lasting impact on society.
Kohl Eyeliner (Ancient Egypt)
History: Dating back to 4000 BCE, Egyptians used kohl made from galena and other minerals to define their eyes, believing it had protective and spiritual qualities.
Tips: Use a soft kohl pencil to line both the upper and lower lids for a bold, sultry look.
Impact: This trend inspired the smoky eye look, a staple in modern makeup.
fashionhistory
Geisha Makeup (Japan)
History: Geishas of Japan in the 18th century wore white rice powder, red accents, and intricately drawn brows to signify grace and artistic refinement.
Tips: Apply a pale foundation and use red lipstick to mimic the iconic Geisha aesthetic.
Impact: It showcased the artistry of makeup as a form of cultural expression.
Youtube
Elizabethan Pale Skin (16th Century England)
History: Queen Elizabeth I popularized a powdered white complexion, symbolizing wealth and nobility.
Tips: Use a matte primer and foundation for a modern interpretation of flawless, pale skin.
Impact: Highlighted the association between beauty and social status.
National Portrait Gallery from Wikimedia Commons (Public Domain); Canva
Beehive Hair (1960s)
History: The voluminous, towering beehive became a symbol of rebellion and glamour in the 1960s.
Tips: Tease hair at the crown and use hairspray to achieve height and hold.
Impact: Defined an era of bold, statement-making hairstyles.
Plucked Hairlines (Medieval Europe)
History: Women in medieval Europe plucked their hairlines to create a high forehead, considered a sign of intelligence and beauty.
Tips: Style your hair back from the face to replicate the illusion of a high forehead.
Impact: Showed the extremes people go to achieve perceived beauty ideals.
culturacolectiva
Flapper Lips (1920s)
History: The 1920s introduced the “cupid’s bow” lip shape, paired with deep red lipstick.
Tips: Use a lip liner to accentuate the bow and fill in with a bold, matte lipstick.
Impact: Emphasized the transformative power of makeup.
glamourdaze
Contoured Cheeks (1980s)
History: Supermodels and celebrities in the 1980s used heavy contouring to sculpt their faces.
Tips: Use a contour palette to define cheekbones, jawlines, and noses.
Impact: Led to the mainstream adoption of contouring in everyday beauty routines.
Deposit Photos
Feathered Brows (1970s)
History: Natural, feathery brows gained popularity in the ’70s, contrasting sharply with the thin brows of previous decades.
Tips: Use a brow gel to brush hairs upward and fill in sparse areas lightly.
Impact: Reinforced the beauty of embracing natural features.
nokillmag
The Bob Haircut (1920s)
History: This short, sleek hairstyle symbolized women’s independence during the Roaring Twenties.
Tips: Opt for a blunt cut and use a straightener for a polished finish.
Impact: Redefined femininity and paved the way for modern, gender-neutral styles.
Shutterstock.com
Henna Body Art (Ancient India and the Middle East)
History: Henna has been used for centuries in weddings and celebrations to create intricate, temporary body art.
Tips: Purchase a henna cone and practice simple designs before attempting intricate patterns.
Impact: Highlighted the intersection of beauty and cultural tradition.
EyesWideOpen | Credit: Getty Images
Victory Rolls (1940s)
History: This wartime hairstyle featured dramatic curls and rolls, symbolizing resilience and patriotism.
Tips: Use a curling iron and pins to create structured rolls.
Impact: Became an enduring symbol of vintage glamor.
vintagehairstyling
Winged Eyeliner (1950s)
History: Popularized by icons like Marilyn Monroe, the cat-eye liner exuded femininity and allure.
Tips: Use a liquid eyeliner with a fine tip for precise application.
Impact: Remains a timeless beauty trend.
beautylish
Afros (1960s-70s)
History: The Afro emerged as a powerful symbol of Black pride and identity during the Civil Rights Movement.
Tips: Use a wide-tooth comb and moisturizing products to maintain natural curls.
Impact: Elevated natural hair as a statement of cultural pride.
Metallic Eyeshadow (1980s)
History: Bold, shimmering eyeshadows became a hallmark of the disco era.
Tips: Apply with a damp brush for extra intensity.
Impact: Showed the playful, experimental side of makeup.
allure
French Manicure (1970s)
History: This minimalist nail design gained global appeal for its versatility and elegance.
Tips: Use tape guides to create clean white tips.
Impact: Defined timeless nail aesthetics.
nailboo
Bold Red Lipstick (Various Eras)
History: Red lipstick has symbolized power, passion, and rebellion throughout history, from Cleopatra to suffragettes.
Tips: Pair red lipstick with minimal eye makeup for a modern, balanced look.
Impact: Continues to be a universal symbol of confidence.
Getty Images
Tanning (1920s Onwards)
History: Coco Chanel popularized tanned skin as a sign of leisure and luxury.
Tips: Use self-tanners or bronzers for a sun-kissed glow without the harmful UV exposure.
Impact: Changed perceptions of skin tones in fashion and beauty.
Getty Images
Glass Skin (Modern Korea)
History: Originating in South Korea, this trend emphasizes hydrated, dewy, and poreless skin.
Tips: Use a multi-step skincare routine with hydrating serums and moisturizers.
Impact: Revolutionized skincare routines worldwide.
allure
Piercings (Ancient to Modern Times)
History: Body piercings have been practiced across cultures, from tribal traditions to punk subcultures.
Tips: Choose hypoallergenic jewelry and follow proper aftercare.
Impact: Continues to push boundaries of self-expression.
embellishpb
Graphic Eyeliner (2020s)
History: Modern iterations of eyeliner feature bold, artistic shapes and bright colors, driven by social media.
Tips: Experiment with gel liners and stencils for precise, creative looks.
Impact: Blurs the line between makeup and art, encouraging individuality.
popcorner | Credit: Shutterstock
