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.

MAKEUP FOR A BLACK DRESS: FASHION TRENDS AND GLAMOROUS STYLES TO MAKE A STATEMENT!

Wearing a black dress is a surefire way to achieve a glamorous and sophisticated look. To complete your ensemble, finding the perfect makeup is crucial. Whether you’re aiming for a classic, bold, or unique style, your makeup should complement both your black dress and the occasion.

If you’re unsure about which makeup styles best suit a black dress, this article is here to help. Read on to discover the ideal makeup looks to enhance your outfit and highlight your personality.

THE PERFECT MAKEUP FOR A BLACK DRESS: A STEP-BY-STEP GUIDE

Before applying makeup for a black dress, start by selecting your dress. The design of your dress can significantly influence your makeup choice.

For a black dress with a plunging, sensual neckline, opt for natural, soft makeup to keep the look balanced. Conversely, if your dress has a more modest cut and subtle neckline, you can go for a bold smoky eye to make a striking impression.

PREPARE YOUR FACE FOR A GOOD MAKEUP

Before applying makeup, it’s crucial to prepare your skin by using a moisturizing cream. This will help keep your skin hydrated and protect it from any adverse reactions to makeup.

Next, apply a foundation that matches your complexion to ensure a natural look. This will also illuminate your skin and help conceal imperfections like spots, freckles, or marks. A light layer of foundation can make a noticeable difference.

Opt for a foundation that hydrates and enhances your skin’s glow to maintain a flawless appearance.

You may also use a concealer to hide dark circles from late nights or lack of rest. Finish with a soft blush to add a subtle, delicate color to your cheeks. These steps will.

ADD COLOR TO YOUR LOOK

The eyes are the focal point of any makeup look, so they should be bright and captivating to truly shine. You can choose various eye makeup styles that complement your personal taste while avoiding an overly dramatic appearance.

SMOKEY EYES MAKEUP

Smoky eye makeup is perfect for black dresses and evening events, creating a dramatic and captivating look.

To achieve this:

  • Start with a neutral eyeshadow: Use a light brown shade as your base.
  • Add depth with darker shades: Apply a darker shadow in a V shape at the outer corner of your eye, blending it inward on the upper eyelid.
  • Highlight with lighter tones: Apply a lighter shade from the inner corner of your eye towards the middle of the eyelid.

For added brightness, you can apply a highlighter in the tear duct and along the lower eyelid.

PIN UP MAKEUP

The Pin-Up makeup style has made a significant impact in the world of beauty and remains a favorite for many. Ideal for evening events, this look features bold black eyeliner on the mobile eyelids, perfectly complementing a black dress and ensuring you stand out and capture everyone’s attention.

ILLUMINATING MAKEUP

This quick and practical eye makeup technique adds luminosity to the upper and lower eyelids, enhancing the overall brightness of your face. Use a thin brush to apply a highlighter, focusing more on the tear duct area. Popular shades for this are white or ivory, which can be paired with various eyeshadow colors for a versatile and radiant look.

ADD VOLUME TO YOUR EYES

Mascara is a crucial finishing touch for any makeup look, enhancing your overall appearance. For a stunning look with your black dress, apply black mascara carefully to both upper and lower lashes. This will add volume and definition without smudging your eyeshadow, perfect for both daytime and evening wear.

FRAME YOUR EYEBROWS

Enhance your makeup by adding color to your eyebrows. Define and intensify them with a shade that complements your skin tone. Use fine strokes to mimic hair and fill in any gaps, giving your brows a fuller, more polished look that will captivate everyone.

MAKEUP WITH EYELINER

Eyeliner adds a touch of elegance and allure to any makeup look, making it a key choice for framing your eyes. It can be used alone or with eyeshadow, especially for a black dress at daytime events.

Here are some eyeliner options to consider:

  • Colored Eyeliner: Adds a fresh, vibrant effect.
  • Bold Eyeliner: A thick line extending to the outer corner of the eye.
  • Double Eyeliner: Thick lines applied on both the upper and lower eyelids.
  • Classic Eyeliner: A standard thick line on the upper eyelid.

SHOW OFF LIPS FULL OF SENSUALITY

When wearing a black dress, a bold red lipstick is ideal for making your lips stand out. Choose a shade that contrasts with your dress for maximum impact, and opt for a long-lasting formula to ensure your color remains vibrant throughout the event. Alternatively, pink or nude lipsticks can also be great choices, depending on your overall makeup look.

TAKE CARE OF ALL THE DETAILS

To look your best, pay attention to every detail of your makeup, clothing, and accessories. Choose pieces that reflect your personality and ensure you feel comfortable and beautiful. Embrace the glamour and elegance of a black dress, which is perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a wedding, birthday, bachelorette party, or formal meeting—offering a stunning look without the need for multiple outfits.

NIGHTTIME MAKEUP FOR A BLACK DRESS

If you’re attending an evening wedding and want to showcase your little black dress, go all out. A black dress offers unmatched elegance and glamour, especially when paired with the right evening makeup. Opt for a smoky eye look with dark brown tones and add a touch of highlighter to your upper eyelids. Don’t forget to refine your eyelashes, eyebrows, and finish with a bold red lipstick for a stunning, unforgettable look.

MAKEUP FOR A BLACK DRESS DURING THE DAY

For a daytime gathering with friends in a black dress, opt for soft and natural makeup to achieve a feminine and subtle look. Use nude or earth-toned eyeshadows that blend with your skin, and apply a coat of mascara and a delicate eyeliner for a refined touch. Finish with a nude or soft pink lipstick to add a hint of color without overpowering your look.

MAKEUP FOR A BLACK DRESS: A GLAM LOOK FOR DARK-SKINNED BEAUTIES

For a natural and understated look with a black dress during the day, opt for makeup in nude tones.

  • Foundation: Use a warm-toned foundation similar to your complexion, and set it with translucent powder to reduce shine and conceal imperfections.
  • Eyes: Apply a lighter eyeshadow on your eyelid and a darker shade in the crease. Define your upper lashes with black eyeliner, avoiding the tear duct for a subtle effect. Curl your lashes and apply a non-clumping mascara.
  • Blush: Choose peach or soft pink blush, applying it in circular, upward motions from the apples of your cheeks to your temples.
  • Eyebrows: Define your eyebrows with a brown pencil to fill in gaps and add definition.
  • Lips: Use a bright nude or coral lip color with a brush, avoiding orange tones. You can choose to add gloss or keep it matte, based on your preference.

This approach will enhance your natural beauty while keeping the look elegant and appropriate for daytime events.

MAKEUP FOR A BLACK DRESS: A RED LIP MAKEUP FOR WHITE SKIN!

For a stunning look with a black dress, pair it with deep red lips for a striking contrast. The cool tone of the black dress will highlight the passionate red on your lips.

Keep your eye makeup soft and understated to let your lips take center stage. Opt for neutral eyeshadows like nudes or light reddish browns, and apply a subtle eyeliner with greyish-black mascara.

Balance your makeup by keeping the rest of your look discreet and natural. Use a light foundation, concealer, powder, and blush in nude, peach, or pink tones to complement your fiery red lips.

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, the black dress, a timeless and versatile piece, offers endless possibilities for self-expression. By carefully selecting the right makeup to complement your ensemble, you can elevate your look and make a lasting impression. With the right makeup choices, the black dress can be more than just an outfit; it can be a statement of confidence and style.