BYUH students share their thoughts on the evolution of makeup trends and people’s preferences
Makeup has been part of the world since 6,000 B.C.E., starting with the Egyptians, who believed makeup to be next to godliness for both men and women, says information from Halifax Public Libraries. Makeup has greatly evolved since then, as BYU–Hawaii student Liahona Moleni pointed out, “Creativity has definitely manifested itself in different ways since then.” The diversity of colors used now are more vibrant than they were before, said Moleni, a senior from Utah majoring in social work. She described the colors used in previous decades as “more calm and mild.”
Makeup is also now better formulated, according to Namuunjargal Tuvshinsaikan, a freshman from Mongolia majoring in communications. She said, “Makeup today is healthier than before. In the past, there were makeup ingredients that were harmful to our bodies.”
When someone expresses themselves through makeup, Moleni shared, it’s a beautiful thing. “Expressing yourself is a brave thing to do,” she explained.
Moleni also said wearing makeup allows her to feel confident and motivated. She said, “When I do something special that day, I feel confident.” She added, “I feel like if I did my makeup today, might as well see everyone and do everything.”
Tuvshinsaikan explained how makeup makes her feel, saying, “While doing my makeup, I feel happy and confident, but sometimes, it looks bad when I feel bad.” She said how her emotions reflect how her makeup turns out.
Remanda Hapairai, a sophomore from Tahiti majoring in psychology, said, “One makeup style I really like is the natural makeup that enhances the beauty of a person.” She shared her love for bridal looks and how simple they are because they only take a little bit of makeup. She also said while makeup is not really a priority to her, when she wears it, she loves it.
Makeup through the decades
1900-1919 Edwardian era
Pale and natural was the way to go. Lemon juice was used as a face tonic to achieve fairer skin. Women had small pots of rouge for their eyes, lips and cheeks. The no-makeup makeup look was a trend.
1920-1929 Flapper era
Dark-defined lashes were both a need and a want. Every woman felt good when they have all the makeup they desire in the palm of their hands. Kohl was used to achieve a daring look. Eyebrows were plucked and the cupid’s bow of the lips was defined.
1930-1939 Hollywood era
With the rise of the movie stars and their influence, pencil-thin eyebrows with a combination of bright eye shadows, fuller lipsticks and more defined eyelashes were the trend.
1940-1949 Redder than red era
Women outlined the outside of their lips to achieve a fuller look. They wore red or orange-red lipstick and used Vaseline to make it look glossy. This was considered essential during World War II. Women were encouraged to send letters full of lipstick kisses to soldiers for motivation. Eyebrows were thicker compared to the 1930s.
1950-1959 Mask effect era
A thick, creamy foundation plus a natural-colored setting powder was the thing. Pink was the favorite color as opposed to red. Eyeshadows and lashes were now subtle and the winged eyeliner effect become popular.
1960-1969 London era
Posh and classy were the words of the decade. The women of this era aimed to look like sophisticated princesses. They used contouring makeup to highly emphasize their eyes. The popular eye shadow colors were now blue, white and gray, and one could not slay the day without eyeliner and natural looking, pink lips.