Classic Beauty The History Of Makeup Second Edition
Makeup has been an essential part of human culture for thousands of years. From ancient Egypt to modern-day America, people have used cosmetics to enhance their natural beauty and express themselves. The second edition of the book "Classic Beauty: The History of Makeup" by Gabriela Hernandez is a fascinating exploration of the history of makeup and its influence on society.
The Origins of Makeup
The history of makeup dates back to ancient times. The Egyptians were the first to use cosmetics as part of their daily beauty routine. They used kohl to darken their eyes, red ochre to color their lips, and henna to dye their hair. Other ancient civilizations, such as the Greeks and Romans, also used makeup to enhance their appearance.
During the Middle Ages, makeup fell out of favor as it was associated with vanity and sin. However, it regained popularity during the Renaissance as women began to use cosmetics to achieve a more natural look.
The Rise of the Beauty Industry
In the 20th century, the beauty industry exploded with the introduction of new products and advertising techniques. Women were encouraged to use makeup to achieve the perfect look, and companies began to market their products to a wider audience.
The 1920s were known as the "Roaring Twenties" and were a time of great change and social upheaval. Women began to wear shorter skirts and bobbed their hair, and makeup became an essential part of their look. The iconic "flapper" style was characterized by bold lips, smoky eyes, and a powdered complexion.
During World War II, makeup became more practical as women took on jobs traditionally held by men. The "Rosie the Riveter" look was popular, with women wearing minimal makeup and practical hairstyles.
The Evolution of Makeup Trends
The 1960s saw a return to bold makeup with the rise of the "mod" look. Women wore bright eyeshadows, false eyelashes, and pale lips. The 1970s were characterized by a more natural look, with women opting for earthy tones and minimal foundation.
In the 1980s, makeup became more dramatic with the popularity of heavy contouring and bright, bold colors. The 1990s saw a return to a more natural look, with nude lips and subtle eye makeup.
Today, makeup trends are constantly evolving. Social media has had a huge impact on the beauty industry, with influencers and celebrities setting the tone for what is considered fashionable. From bold lip colors to glittery eyeshadows, there is a makeup trend for everyone.
The Impact of Makeup on Society
Makeup has had a significant impact on society throughout history. It has been used to express creativity, enhance natural beauty, and make social statements. It has also been used to conform to societal standards of beauty, and to hide imperfections.
The beauty industry is a multi-billion dollar industry, with companies constantly introducing new products and techniques to keep up with changing trends. While makeup can be empowering and fun, it can also be expensive and time-consuming.
Overall, the history of makeup is a fascinating subject that sheds light on the evolution of beauty standards and societal norms. "Classic Beauty: The History of Makeup Second Edition" by Gabriela Hernandez is a must-read for anyone interested in the subject.