long wool coat cream

THE 25 BEST SHEARLING COATS FOR WOMEN TO COZY UP IN THIS WINTER

Brrr! Winter’s chill is just around the corner, and what better way to combat it than with a luxurious shearling coat? Shearling is back in a big way, offering the perfect blend of warmth, style, and timeless appeal. Whether you crave a classic aviator jacket or a trendy oversized silhouette, there’s a perfect shearling coat out there waiting to elevate your winter wardrobe. Get ready to cozy up in comfort and confidence with our guide to the 25 best shearling coats for women!

OUR TOP PICKS

REFORMATION TALLI JACKET

Craving cozy chic with an eco-conscious edge? Look no further than the Reformation Talli Jacket. This oversized shearling coat, offered in a classic black or rich chocolate brown (though availability might be limited), boasts a relaxed silhouette with a collar, faux fur detailing, and handy pockets. While it carries a higher price tag than some jackets, the Talli’s sustainable construction aligns with Reformation’s commitment to ethical practices. However, since it’s a past-season style, you’ll likely find better luck hunting for your perfect fit on resale platforms.

AVEC LES FILLES

Indulge in sophisticated warmth with the Avec Les Filles Faux Suede Wrap Coat with Faux Fur Trim. This luxurious coat combines elegance with practicality. Imagine a longline silhouette, crafted from a soft, faux-suede material that drapes beautifully. The sumptuous faux fur trim adds a touch of glamour, while the shawl collar offers a cozy embrace. A removable tie belt cinches the waist for a flattering fit, and hidden welt pockets keep your essentials secure. Unlined for a lightweight feel, this coat is perfect for layering through the colder months, making it a versatile and stylish addition to your winter wardrobe.

BUCK MASON SHEARLING RANCH JACKET

Buckle up for timeless winter luxury with the Buck Mason Shearling Ranch Jacket. This relaxed silhouette, hand-cut from vegetable-tanned lambskin, offers a buttery soft suede exterior and a cozy, semi-curled shearling interior. The 25-inch length provides just the right amount of coverage, hitting at the hip for a versatile look. Clean lines and a relaxed fit make it easy to pair with jeans for a casual day out or elevate a dress for a touch of rustic charm. Just be prepared for compliments – the Buck Mason Shearling Ranch Jacket is sure to turn heads wherever you go. But remember, since it’s crafted from delicate lambskin, professional dry cleaning is recommended to keep your investment looking its best.

BANANA REPUBLIC TOSCANA REVERSIBLE SHEARLING COAT

Wrap yourself in warmth and versatility with the Banana Republic Toscana Reversible Shearling Coat. This luxurious coat boasts long-haired Toscana shearling, meticulously straightened for a voluminous and halo-like effect. The relaxed, cocoon-like fit offers a contemporary silhouette, perfect for layering over chunky knits. When the mood (or the weather) strikes, simply reverse the coat to reveal a sleek and unexpected lining. Banana Republic keeps the design clean with a notched collar, button closure, and hidden pockets for a streamlined look. Fully lined for added comfort, the Toscana Shearling Coat is an investment piece that will add instant sophistication to your winter wardrobe.

SHOREDITCH SKI CLUB DARLING SHEARLING JACKET

Indulge in pure luxury with the Shoreditch Ski Club Darling Shearling Jacket. This oversized silhouette is crafted from premium shearling, promising unparalleled warmth and a touch of undeniable sophistication. The relaxed fit drapes effortlessly over your frame, while the rich texture of the shearling elevates any outfit. Imagine yourself in a cozy cocoon, ready to take on the winter chill with effortless style. Whether you prefer a classic beige or a statement white (availability may vary), the Darling Shearling Jacket is a timeless investment piece that will become a staple in your winter wardrobe for years to come.

SANDRO SHEARLING COAT

The Sandro Shearling Coat is a stylish and cozy choice for cold weather. Made from high-quality shearling, it keeps you warm and comfortable. The inside is soft and plush, while the outside looks sleek and neat. This coat has a classic shape that fits well, making it perfect for both fancy and casual outfits. The careful stitching and quality materials mean it’s not only fashionable but also long-lasting, making it a great investment for your wardrobe.

VIA SPIGA LONGLINE FAUX SHEARLING COAT

Embrace winter’s chill in style with the VIA SPIGA Longline Faux Shearling Coat. This luxurious coat offers a streamlined silhouette thanks to hidden snaps that create a clean, modern look. Crafted from plush faux shearling, it promises cozy warmth without sacrificing on style. The longline design adds a touch of sophistication, making it perfect for both casual outings and dressier occasions. Available in a classic black, the VIA SPIGA Longline Faux Shearling Coat is a versatile and affordable option that will become a staple in your winter wardrobe.

JENNI KAYNE SHEARLING YVES SHAWL COAT

Wrap yourself in luxurious comfort with the Jenni Kayne Shearling Yves Shawl Coat. This oversized coat, crafted from 100% lamb shearling, boasts a timeless design with a touch of modern flair. The shawl collar adds a relaxed elegance, while the single snap closure keeps things streamlined. Imagine yourself sinking into the plush, cozy interior, perfect for battling winter’s chill. Known for its slightly oversized fit, the Yves Shawl Coat drapes beautifully over any outfit, offering effortless style and undeniable warmth. Available in a neutral color palette (think caramel or smoke), this Jenni Kayne coat is a versatile investment piece that will elevate your winter wardrobe for seasons to come.

ROUJE GILBERTA COAT

Channel your inner Parisian with the Rouje Gilberta Coat. This mid-length shearling jacket offers a touch of French chic that will elevate your winter style. The “Uni Whisky” color, a warm beige with a hint of brown, adds a touch of sophistication. Buttery soft sheepskin wraps you in cozy warmth, while the shawl collar and butterfly sleeves create a distinctly feminine silhouette. Imagine yourself strolling the streets of Paris, looking effortlessly stylish and perfectly prepared for the winter chill. This versatile jacket looks just as good with jeans and boots for a casual day out as it does dressed up over a skirt or dress for a night out.

FREE PEOPLE LADY LANE FAUX FUR COLLAR JACKET

Infuse your winter wardrobe with a touch of vintage charm with the Free People Lady Lane Faux Fur Collar Jacket. This corduroy jacket combines retro inspiration with modern sensibilities. Imagine a soft, corduroy exterior that drapes comfortably over your frame. The detachable faux fur collar adds a touch of playful luxury, allowing you to customize the look based on your mood or the occasion. Exposed snap closures and cute side pockets enhance the jacket’s vintage vibe, while a pretty printed lining adds a hidden touch of whimsy. Perfect for layering over sweaters and dresses, the Lady Lane Faux Fur Collar Jacket is a versatile and cozy piece that embodies Free People’s signature bohemian spirit.

ME+EM LUXE SHORT SHEARLING COAT

Crafted from buttery soft Toscana shearling, this coat offers unparalleled warmth and undeniable sophistication. The cropped silhouette hits at the hip, making it perfect for layering over dresses or creating a balanced look with jeans. Roomy pockets add a touch of functionality, while the clean design with a button-up front keeps things polished. This luxurious coat is an investment piece you’ll cherish for years to come. ME+EM offers it in a stunning soft khaki, allowing you to embrace a neutral palette or make a statement with a unique color choice.

COACH SHEARLING COAT

Channel your inner fashion icon with a Coach shearling coat for a touch of timeless, vintage flair. While Coach offers a variety of shearling coat styles, they’re all renowned for their quality materials and craftsmanship. Imagine yourself wrapped in buttery soft shearling, a material that’s as timeless as it is cozy. Classic silhouettes reminiscent of past decades – think aviator jackets or longline trench coats – are reimagined with modern details for a perfect blend of retro charm and contemporary style. Whether you seek a statement piece or a versatile everyday staple, a Coach shearling coat is sure to become a treasured part of your winter wardrobe for years to come. Keep your eyes peeled for pre-owned options online or at vintage stores to score a truly unique piece steeped in history.

VIA SPIGA FAUX FUR TRIM FAUX LEATHER TRENCH COAT

Elevate your outerwear game with the VIA SPIGA Faux Fur Trim Faux Leather Trench Coat. This on-trend piece offers a contemporary twist on a timeless classic. The sleek faux leather exterior adds a touch of edge, while the plush faux fur trim at the collar and cuffs injects a dose of glamour. The silhouette flatters with a double-breasted button closure and a removable belt that cinches the waist for a defined fit. Think long walks on crisp winter days, feeling both confident and perfectly prepared for the elements. The VIA SPIGA trench is a versatile option that seamlessly transitions from casual outings to dressier occasions, all while keeping you cozy and on-trend.

THE ARRIVALS KALA III NATURAL

This shearling bomber jacket isn’t just about warmth, it’s a statement piece crafted with a deep connection to the outdoors. The exterior boasts genuine Toscana shearling in a beautiful natural color, offering unparalleled softness and timeless style. This eco-conscious brand prioritizes function alongside design, so expect a cozy, insulated interior perfect for battling the elements. The bomber silhouette provides a relaxed yet polished look, making it easy to pair with jeans for a casual day out or elevate a dress for a night on the town. The Arrivals Kala III Natural is more than just a coat, it’s an investment in quality, comfort, and sustainable style.

NOUR HAMMOUR JONI 90S GLAMOUR SHEARLING COAT

Immerse yourself in 90s glamour with the Nour Hammour Joni Shearling Coat. This statement piece isn’t for the faint of heart. Crafted from luxurious black suede and plush black shearling, it offers an ankle-skimming silhouette that commands attention. Discreet details like a hidden closure and sleek pockets add a touch of modern polish, while the contrasting Toscana shearling collar and cuffs nod to the era’s bold fashion sense. Imagine yourself turning heads as you walk down the street, the epitome of winter chic. This isn’t just a coat, it’s an experience in retro luxury, perfect for the fashion-forward woman who craves a touch of timeless glamour. Be prepared to invest in this piece, as the impeccable craftsmanship and designer label come with a hefty price tag.

SHOW ME YOUR MUMU PENNY LANE COAT IN BEIGE

Wrap yourself in cozy chic with the Show Me Your Mumu Penny Lane Coat in Beige. This playful take on the classic faux shearling coat is perfect for infusing your winter wardrobe with a touch of fun. The relaxed silhouette drapes comfortably over your frame, while the soft, faux shearling keeps you toasty warm. The beige color adds a touch of versatility, making it easy to pair with jeans and boots for a casual look or dress pants and a sweater for a more put-together outfit. Functional details like pockets and a shawl collar add a touch of practicality, while the playful name injects a hint of personality. Ideal for those who love both comfort and style, the Penny Lane Coat is an affordable option that will become a go-to in your winter wardrobe.

NOUR HAMMOUR REINA WILD BROWN

Luxuriate in earthy elegance with the Nour Hammour Reina Wild Brown jacket. This piece is the epitome of cozy chic, crafted from natural wild brown shearling that offers both unparalleled warmth and a touch of rugged individuality. The relaxed silhouette drapes effortlessly, creating a comfortable and stylish look. An invisible crochet closure adds a touch of modern design, while loose shaping allows for easy layering over anything from chunky knits to sleek tailoring. This Nour Hammour jacket is an excellent choice for the woman who values both comfort and effortless style. However, keep in mind it fits large, so consider sizing down for a more tailored look.

OVERLAND COLETTE REVERSIBLE SHEEPSKIN COAT

The Overland Colette Reversible Sheepskin Coat offers the ultimate in winter versatility. This full-length coat boasts luxurious Spanish shearling, promising warmth and timeless elegance. Imagine yourself wrapped in the plush comfort of the fur-out side, perfect for battling the coldest days. When the mood strikes, simply reverse the coat to reveal a sleek, suede exterior. Leather piping adds a touch of sophistication, while the dramatic silhouette with a sweeping hem creates a truly unforgettable look. Functional details like pockets and a five-button closure with loop closure options ensure both practicality and a flattering fit. Overland’s commitment to quality means this coat will be a cherished part of your winter wardrobe for years to come.

LEVI’S NOTCH COLLAR FAUX SHEARLING COAT

Levi’s offers a cozy and casual approach to winter style with their Notch Collar Faux Shearling Coat. This jacket combines timeless design with modern sensibilities. The relaxed silhouette drapes comfortably over your frame, perfect for layering over sweaters or creating a carefree weekend look. The faux shearling provides warmth without sacrificing on animal welfare, making it a great option for eco-conscious consumers. A classic notch collar adds a touch of sophistication, while the clean lines and hidden button closure keep things streamlined. Offered in a versatile brown or sesame color, this Levi’s coat is an affordable and on-trend option that will easily integrate into your winter wardrobe.

MANGO FUR-EFFECT COAT WITH APPLIQUÉS

Add a touch of whimsy and warmth to your winter wardrobe with Mango’s Fur-effect Coat with Appliqués. This playful piece features a luxurious faux fur fabric in a straight or oversized silhouette, depending on your preference. Eye-catching appliqués add a unique touch, making this coat a conversation starter. It’s perfect for those who crave a bit of personality in their outerwear. While the exact appliqués may vary depending on availability, you can expect a touch of playful flair to elevate your winter look. Offered at a more affordable price point compared to some shearling options, this Mango coat is a stylish and fun way to stay cozy all season long.

MANGO DOUBLE-SIDED COAT WITH BUTTONS

Breathe new life into your winter wardrobe with Mango’s double-sided coat with buttons. This versatile piece offers two distinct looks in one. Imagine a short, cozy design crafted from a soft, teddy-like fabric. The button closure keeps you warm and adds a touch of polish, while the side pockets provide handy storage. But that’s not all! Simply reverse the coat to reveal a sleek, contrasting side, perfect for days when you crave a more polished look. Available in a variety of colors to suit your style, this affordable Mango coat is a practical and fashionable choice you’ll reach for all winter long.

BANANA REPUBLIC TOSCANA SHEARLING COAT

This investment piece is crafted from premium Toscana shearling, renowned for its long, luxurious strands that create a voluminous halo effect. The relaxed, cocoon-like silhouette offers a contemporary and effortlessly stylish look. Imagine yourself wrapped in cozy warmth, perfect for layering over chunky knits on chilly days. Banana Republic keeps the design clean and sophisticated with a notched collar, button closure, and hidden pockets. Fully lined for added comfort, this coat is sure to become a favorite part of your winter wardrobe for years to come. The price tag reflects the quality materials and timeless design, but Banana Republic does occasionally offer sales and promotions.

MACKAGE ETIENNE BELTED SHEARLING TOP COAT

Elevate your winter style with the Mackage Etienne Belted Shearling Top Coat. This luxurious coat combines warmth and sophistication, making it a perfect choice for the fashion-conscious woman. The soft, buttery shearling exterior promises unparalleled comfort, while the relaxed silhouette with a belted waist flatters your figure. Imagine yourself feeling confident and stylish, even on the coldest days. The Etienne features a classic collar for a touch of polish, and hidden pockets add a touch of practicality. Available in a neutral color like Air (think light beige or cream), this Mackage coat is a versatile investment piece that will complement a variety of outfits throughout the winter season. Be prepared for a higher price tag, as Mackage is a luxury brand known for its premium materials and impeccable craftsmanship.

ZARA FAUX FUR COLLAR COAT

Zara’s Faux Fur Collar Coat offers a budget-friendly way to add warmth and style to your winter wardrobe. This jacket features a relaxed silhouette, crafted from a wool blend fabric for a touch of structure. The key detail is the detachable faux fur collar, which injects a dose of glamour and allows you to customize the look based on your mood or the occasion. Long sleeves and hidden in-seam pockets add practicality, while a self-tie belt cinches the waist for a flattering fit. The coat comes lined for extra comfort, making it a versatile option for layering throughout the colder months. While it might not offer the same level of warmth as a full shearling coat, Zara’s Faux Fur Collar Coat is a stylish and affordable choice for adding winter flair to your outfits.

MAX MARA TALAMO COLLARLESS SHEARLING MAXI COAT

This statement piece is crafted from 100% vegan shearling, offering a plush, cozy feel and a commitment to sustainable practices. The dramatic maxi length adds a touch of sophistication, while the clean lines and collarless design create a modern, minimalist silhouette. Imagine yourself enveloped in warmth and elegance, turning heads wherever you go. The Talamo is reversible, boasting a smooth vegan suede reverse for a more versatile look. Hidden side pockets add a touch of practicality without compromising the clean aesthetic. This Max Mara coat is an investment piece, but one that will become a cornerstone of your winter wardrobe for seasons to come.

CONCLUSION

So there you have it! From luxurious trench coats to playful faux fur accents, there’s a perfect fleece option to keep you warm and stylish all winter long. Whether you prioritize sustainability, timeless design, or statement sophistication, you’re sure to find a jacket that reflects your personal style and keeps you warm throughout the colder months. Combine with women’s winter boots, and you have completed the standard outfit for winter. Embrace the warmth, embrace the look, and get ready to conquer winter in style!

THE HISTORY AND TUTORIAL OF AUTHENTIC 1940S MAKEUP

1940s makeup is one of the most “vintage” looks, and is rather simple to recreate. There was a push for all things natural, unlike the 1930s and 1950s, which favored reshaping eyebrows and contouring the face. 1940s makeup enhanced natural beauty with just a few tools.

During the war, European women dealt with huge cosmetics shortages, since petroleum and alcohol – some of the main ingredients in makeup at the time – were used for the war effort. When makeup ran out, women turned to home remedies to substitute, such as using beetroot juice to stain lips and petroleum jelly to darken lashes and shape eyebrows.

In the United States, cosmetics continued to be manufactured throughout the war and were seen by the government as a morale booster for the busy women on the home front. Women were encouraged to wear makeup all the time to hide sadness and attract men, even while at work. Athletes even wore makeup. Color films had a big impact on the market, as women could now imitate the shades worn by Hollywood starlets. By 1948, between 80 and 90 percent of women wore lipstick, two thirds wore rouge, and a quarter wore eye makeup.

The 1940s makeup look exudes classic sophistication and is surprisingly easy to recreate. The emphasis was on a flawless, fresh-faced appearance—natural, never overly done. Less was definitely more, which worked out well, especially during the war years when many women had to make do with fewer products and resources.

Although the final result seems simple, a woman’s 1940s makeup routine could take some time—quick five-minute makeup wasn’t a thing! The process began with applying and blending thick foundation. Women were encouraged to shape their face with both light and dark shades of foundation—darker tones could be used to contour areas like a large nose, broad forehead, or square jaw, while lighter shades on the cheeks would add a fuller, plumper appearance.

Next, eye shadow was applied, followed by moist rouge. This was often used not only for color but also for subtle shaping, always ensuring the look remained natural. Afterward, a generous application of powder was pressed into the face with a large velour or wool puff. The powder was applied heavily to ensure a matte finish, covering the entire face. Excess powder was then brushed away with a powder brush to reveal a smooth, polished look.

If the moist rouge needed extra reinforcement, a powdered version was applied on top of the powder. The final steps included defining the eyebrows with an eyebrow pencil, applying mascara for fuller lashes, and finishing with the signature bold lipstick.

What You’ll Need:

  • Foundation: Choose a shade that closely matches your skin tone.
  • Powder: Loose powder that matches your skin tone to set the foundation.
  • Cream Rouge: Go for a rose-pink cream rouge (avoid powder if possible, unless that’s all you have).
  • Eyebrow Pencil: Choose a pencil that matches your natural brow color, or one shade darker than your hair.
  • Eye Shadow: (Optional, for evening wear) Use matte shadows that match your eye color—avoid shimmer.
  • Mascara: Dark brown or black mascara, or you can even use petroleum jelly (like Vaseline) for a more subtle lash effect.
  • Lipstick: A classic, matte red lipstick for that bold, vintage look.

1940s Foundation and Powder

Foundations in the 1940s were quite different from today’s lightweight options. There were fewer shades available, and most foundations had a pinkish tint, which worked well for white women, but wasn’t always suitable for women of color. Many Black women, for instance, either mixed their own makeup or often went without powder.

Foundations during this time were much thicker and creamier compared to today’s formulations. Liquid foundations as we know them didn’t exist, and the creamier formulas helped provide a fuller coverage. Face powder, which was essential, was used to set the foundation and keep the face matte throughout the day. It matched the skin tone but was also used to help the foundation adhere better to the face—foundation alone would often cause powder to slip off.

The foundation and powder were extended down the neck and onto the blouse or dress line, as it was common for the foundation shade to not perfectly match the skin on the rest of the body. This helped create a seamless, blended look.

Tip: For a smooth application, lightly coat your face with baby oil (or mineral oil) before applying foundation. This helps create a smooth base and allows the foundation to blend more easily.

1940S FACE POWDER

Powders should match your natural skin tone as much as possible. Light shades kept a woman looking fresh and youthful, while a slightly bronzed shade added a sun kissed glow, popular with movie stars. Almost all makeup lines carried a sun kissed color or two.

If you are over 40, your skin is prone to yellowing, in which case a powder with a pink tinge will work better for you.  To apply, use a puff to dust your face all over and then brush from the neck up to the forehead. Only brush down once to finish and smooth out face fuzz.

Tip: A fluffy face puff makes a difference. Don’t use compressed powder with a flat pad for early 1940s looks. Pan-cake compressed makeup came out in the mid 1940s with big success. To women who could afford it, it provided more coverage applied in less time. Just remember to always brush up, never down.

1940s Blush

In the 1940s, blush (referred to as rouge) was applied sparingly to create a natural, rosy glow. The shades of rouge were limited, typically ranging from peach and coral to raspberry tones, with darker shades for those with bronze or deeper skin tones. Cream rouge (moist rouge) was the preferred choice, giving a more natural look, and was often blended directly into the foundation. Powdered rouges were also used lightly over the cheeks to give a soft flush.

Although rouge was an important part of the look, it wasn’t strictly necessary for achieving the 1940s style. You could still achieve the desired effect without it.

Tip: If you can’t find cream rouge, a light matte lipstick in a pink or peach shade works well. Simply apply it with your fingers, dab it on the cheeks, and blend it in until it seamlessly matches your skin tone.

Cream or liquid rouges were sometimes found in theatrical costume makeup stores and, in modern times, can be found in some makeup brands on platforms like Amazon.

1940s Eyebrows

The 1940s eyebrows were a continuation of the 1930s style, with thin, beautifully arched brows being the key feature. Eyebrows were kept natural-looking, with only stray hairs removed to maintain a soft, even arch. The arch itself was well-groomed but not overly thin—most women didn’t over-pluck.

Eyebrows were often defined with a pencil that was slightly darker than the hair color, or some women simply applied a bit of petroleum jelly to keep the brows in place and enhance their natural shape. For daywear, this softer look was more common, while in the evening, brows might be more defined.

As the decade progressed, the full, more defined brows of the late ’40s began to take hold, but they were never as thick as modern-day brows.

1940s Eye Makeup

Eye makeup in the 1940s was quite minimal, especially during the daytime. Most women wore just a light coat of mascara, often in dark brown or black. Some even used petroleum jelly (Vaseline) to achieve a subtle lash definition. Mascara came in different forms—liquid, paste, or cake—often built up by adding a little water or spit to the cake to get the desired consistency. Mascara was applied to both the upper and lower lashes for a fuller look.

For evening looks, eye shadow could be used, but only in neutral tones. The colors were typically chosen to match the eye color—blue-grey for blue eyes, grey for green eyes, and brown for brown or hazel eyes. The eyeshadow was applied in a single color, blended from the lash line up to the brow for an elegant and simple look. No smoky eyes or contouring here—just one shade blended well. For evening looks, sometimes silver or gold was added to create a little extra glamour.

Eyeliner wasn’t commonly used in the early 1940s; it was considered too harsh and “fake-looking.” It didn’t make an appearance until the late ’40s, and even then, it was applied only to the top lash line.

1940s Lipstick

Lips were the focal point of 1940s makeup, especially during the war years, when red lipstick was seen as a mood booster. Lipstick shades varied from bluish reds to orange-toned reds, but they were all red! Bright pinks weren’t worn until the 1950s, so reds were a constant. In the fall, red lipstick tended to get darker, and in the spring, it lightened up a bit.

Most lipsticks of the time were matte, and women were advised to moisturize their lips before applying. After applying lipstick, they would often blot their lips with a tissue to ensure the color stayed put. By 1948, lipstick pencils were introduced, allowing for a more precise application and a perfect outline around the lips.

The ideal lip shape was full and even, with a smooth contour on the top and bottom lips. The “Hunter’s Bow” lip shape, popularized by Joan Crawford, involved slightly over-drawing the lips to make them appear plumper. However, actresses like Lauren Bacall and Ingrid Bergman embraced their naturally thin lips and didn’t over-draw them.

Tip: To achieve a perfectly shaped lip, start with the cupid’s bow and draw the pencil out to the corners of the mouth. Fill in with lipstick and gently rub your lips together to ensure an even finish. Touch up any uneven spots on the bottom lip.

1940s Fingernail Polish

In the 1940s, nails were always neatly trimmed, often filed into a long oval shape. During wartime, nails were kept a bit shorter for safety, but they were still manicured regularly. Cuticles were carefully trimmed and moisturized for a polished look.

Nail polish in the ’40s was almost always red, and matching your nails to your lipstick was the norm. Other shades like pink, coral, rose, and burgundy were also popular. A clear topcoat was always used for durability, and some women embraced the “half-moon” style, where the base of the nail (around the cuticle) was left unpainted.

Tip: To create a half-moon shape on your nails, apply paper reinforcements to the base of each nail, aligning the top of the hole with the cuticle. Paint your nails, then remove the reinforcements before the polish fully dries for a neat, vintage look.

1940s Makeup Products to Buy Today

To create an authentic 1940s look today, you don’t need a complicated routine. A bit of face powder, black mascara, well-defined brows, and red lipstick will give you that classic, vintage style. Modern makeup tends to have more shine and glitter, but for a true 1940s look, opt for matte products—especially for your lips, cheeks, and eyes.

Tip: Many modern makeup lines offer matte formulas, but brands like Revlon and Max Factor (which were popular in the 1940s) still offer products that capture that vintage style. Besame is another brand that specializes in recreating vintage makeup colors and formulas from the ’40s.

For a more subtle daytime look, keep your makeup light—just a dusting of powder, a touch of blush, and a swipe of mascara. For a more dramatic evening or pinup style, go heavier on the lipstick and mascara, and use a little more rouge for that retro glam.