Makeup lovers often find themselves drawn to the history of beauty, exploring the trends and innovations that have shaped the way we express ourselves today. Among these historical gems are the makeup palettes of the 1910s, a time when societal shifts and stylistic evolution brought new possibilities to women’s vanity tables. This blog takes you on a fascinating journey through the world of 1910 makeup palettes, revealing their charm and how they continue to inspire today’s beauty standards.
The Beauty Boom of the 1910s
The 1910s were a period of transformation—a time when beauty became more accessible to the everyday woman. Although makeup was still regarded as a luxury (and sometimes scandalous), societal changes, including the growing women’s suffrage movement, began empowering women to take control of their self-expression. Makeup became a subtle yet powerful tool for individuality as women moved away from Victorian minimalism to a more polished look.
Retail giants of the era, like Woolworth’s, began offering affordable beauty products, including early versions of makeup palettes—compact but practical kits designed for convenience and style. This decade marked a turning point for makeup, setting the foundation for the beauty industry we know today.
Popular Makeup Trends of the 1910s
Makeup in the 1910s was all about elegance and subtle enhancement. The concept of natural beauty was key, as overly painted faces were frowned upon in polite society. Women took inspiration from film stars and the Edwardian fashion icons of the day. Here are the most notable trends:
- Rosy Cheeks: Rouge was a must-have, bringing a healthy flush to the face.
- Fresh Skin: Women strived for a porcelain complexion, often achieved using powders made with rice, zinc, or chalk.
- Subtle Lip Stain: Lips were enhanced with light dabs of tinted salves or homemade stains made from berries.
- Minimal Eye Makeup: Mascara was uncommon; instead, kohl was used sparingly to line the eyes, giving a soft yet striking look.
This approach to beauty was influenced by cultural norms but also by the practical limitations of available products.
Exploring 1910 Makeup Palettes
When we think of makeup palettes today, we imagine sleek containers filled with pressed powders, creamy pigments, and mirror-lined lids. But in the 1910s, these palettes were far simpler yet charming.
Colors
The 1910s palettes offered a very limited color range compared to modern counterparts. Common shades included:
- Soft Pinks and Reds for lips and cheeks, designed to mimic natural flushes.
- Neutral Powders, often in light beige tones, to set and mattify the skin.
- Charcoal or Black Kohl, used sparingly for defining the eyes.
Textures
Makeup textures were basic but effective:
- Powders were finely milled but often had a chalky finish.
- Rouge came in a waxy or cream-like formula, often stored in tins.
- Lip stains were wax or petroleum jelly mixes, offering a more natural tint.
Packaging
The packaging of 1910 makeup palettes was functional yet undeniably stylish. Metal tins, ceramic pots, and cardboard compacts were commonplace. Many of these containers were ornately decorated, featuring floral motifs, hand-painted designs, or engraved details that reflected the Edwardian love for intricate craftsmanship.
1910 Makeup Meets Modern Beauty Standards
Though simple in design, 1910 makeup palettes cast a long shadow over the current beauty world. Today, many makeup trends, such as the “no-makeup makeup look,” have roots in the natural beauty ideals of this era. Additionally, the idea of a multi-use palette (kindergarten for blush, eyeshadow, and lips) mirrors the original multi-functional kits of the time.
Modern brands also draw inspiration from 1910 packaging aesthetics. Retro-themed makeup lines like Bésame Cosmetics reimagine vintage designs, paying homage to the old-world glamour of the past while catering to contemporary demands for quality and performance.
How to Bring 1910s Makeup Styles into Modern Looks
Want to embrace the sophisticated vibe of the 1910s in your makeup routine? Here are some tips for integrating these classic styles:
- Start with a Clean Canvas: Aim for a flawless, dewy complexion by using a lightweight foundation or a luminous BB cream.
- Soft Cheeks: Select a cream blush in a soft rose or peach shade. Blend it lightly for a “just-pinched” effect.
- Define the Eyes Naturally: Swap your bold eyeliner for a creamy kohl pencil. Keep the definition soft and smudged for an authentic look.
- Tinted Lips: Choose a lip tint or balm in a romantic hue like berry, rose, or coral. Dab it softly onto your lips for a natural finish.
- Accessorize Your Look: Complement your 1910-inspired makeup with vintage-inspired accessories, like a lace headpiece or pearl necklace.
Voices of the Industry
To uncover how vintage makeup influences today’s beauty creators, we spoke with leading makeup artists and influencers. Here’s what they had to share:
“Historical makeup teaches us to appreciate simplicity. My approach to natural makeup often stems from studying eras like the 1910s.” – Clarissa Bennet, Makeup Artist.
“The attention to detail in 1910s packaging inspires me to this day. There’s something magical about creating a look with products that feel like art pieces.” – Dani Martins, Influencer.
Where to Find Authentic or Vintage-Inspired 1910 Palettes
To recreate 1910-inspired looks, you can explore:
- Vintage Shops: Look for authentic collectibles in antique stores or online platforms like eBay.
- Retro-Inspired Brands: Check out Bésame Cosmetics, which offers stunning replicas of vintage makeup.
- DIY Kits: Get crafty with tutorials that teach you how to make natural, homemade versions of 1910 rouge or lip stains.
Adding these items to your beauty arsenal won’t just elevate your makeup game—it’ll connect you to an era that celebrated both artistry and elegance.
Add Edwardian Elegance to Your Routine
The 1910s were much more than just the birth of modern makeup; they laid the groundwork for beauty trends that continue to shape the industry today. By exploring 1910 makeup palettes and styles, you can bring timeless charm into your contemporary beauty routine—and maybe even feel a little closer to a bygone era of elegance.
