The use of lipstick dates back to ancient times. During one period it was considered suitable for high society, and during another it was only to be considered acceptable for prostitutes. Dating back to 1770, a British law was proposed to the parliament, stating that a marriage should not be allowed had the woman worn lipstick before her wedding day. Times have somewhat changed, fortunately. But if we take a look at the 20th century until the present day, how has the wearing of the iconic red lipstick changed during the decades?
During the early 1920s, dark red lipstick was fashionable and was worn to form a cupid’s bow which was inspired by actress Clara Bow. Flappers wore lipstick to symbolize their independence. During the 1930s and 40s lipstick was very scarce due to the war, and young women and teens were discouraged to wear red lipstick as it was still associated with prostitution. By the 1950s movie actresses such as Marilyn Monroe, Rita Hayworth and Elizabeth Taylor were wearing red lipstick and the glamorous Hollywood starlet look was born.
During the 60s, teens started to wear alternative colour lipsticks such as pale shimmery pinks, and even white became fashionable as it was used to make lips as pale as possible. Red lips were less fashionable during this period. The 1970s and 80s saw an introduction of black lips due to the punk and Goth subcultures, though Madonna’s red lips were symbolic during her tour in the 80s.
Today women wear red lipstick worldwide, and it has become a classic. It is probably the best loved beauty product portraying many different assumptions of the wearer; assertion, confidence, power, sexuality and prowess.
