Makeup Trends Timeline

As the makeup industry continues to grow and evolve, so do the trends that come along with it. From bold colors to natural looks, there are always plenty of new looks and trends to explore. While some of these trends may come and go with the times, others have become timeless classics. To help make sense of the ever-changing makeup trends, it's important to understand the timeline that has brought us up to the present day.

From ancient Cleopatra’s kohl-lined eyes to the modern-day Instagram makeup looks, the makeup trends timeline is a fascinating journey through the ages. Throughout history, people have used cosmetics for different reasons, from enhancing their features to expressing themselves. There have been some surprising changes in the way makeup has been used over the years, and understanding this evolution can help us better understand the current trends and how they came to be.

The use of cosmetics dates all the way back to Ancient Egypt, when Cleopatra famously used kohl to line her eyes and emphasize her beauty. She would also use ointments and perfumes to enhance her look, setting the trend for countless generations to come. Moving forward to the Middle Ages, makeup was mainly used to hide signs of aging or to enhance a person’s features, as it was considered inappropriate for them to be shown in public without being completely made-up. This was especially true for women.

In the Renaissance era, makeup took a more elaborate turn, with women using vibrant colors and intricate designs to express their individual style. These looks included heavy eyeliner and dramatic lip colors, and often featured a distinct contrast between light and dark colors. However, these bold looks were only really worn by wealthy women, as makeup was extremely expensive and therefore inaccessible for many.

Moving into the Victorian era, makeup changed drastically. Women began to opt for a more natural look, usually just wearing pale foundation, blush, and a light lip color. This was seen as much more “ladylike” and respectable than the more dramatic looks of the Renaissance. This look remained popular well into the 20th century, although it did slowly become more colorful as time went on.

The 1960s ushered in a new era of makeup, with bright colors and inventive shapes becoming the norm. This was a time of experimentation and freedom, where women embraced their individuality and experimented with new looks. Perhaps the most iconic look of the decade was Twiggy’s famous cat eye, which is still popular today.

Today, makeup trends are driven by social media, with makeup artists constantly pushing the boundaries and creating new looks. We’re seeing bold and creative looks everywhere, from Instagram to the runway. Popular trends include bold eyeshadow, colorful eyeliner, and daring lip colors. Technology has also played a big role in the makeup world, with products such as contour sticks and highlighters becoming widely available. Makeup is now seen as an art form and a way to express oneself, which is something that has been true throughout the entire makeup trends timeline.