Vintage beauty is all about embracing classic glamour and timeless techniques that never go out of style. From the red lips of the 1940s to the beehive hairdos of the 1960s, these eras are filled with clever beauty hacks that you can still use today. Here are the best vintage beauty tips inspired by authentic beauty practices from the 1940s, 1950s, and 1960s.
Perfect Red Lips (1940s)
The 1940s were iconic for bold, red lips. To achieve the perfect vintage pout:
- Exfoliate first: Use a soft toothbrush or sugar scrub to smooth lips.
- Define with liner: Outline lips with a matching red pencil to shape and prevent feathering.
- Blot and reapply: Apply one coat of your lipstick, blot with tissue, and apply a second layer for long-lasting colour.
- Use powder: Lightly dust with translucent porder between layers for extra staying power.
Pin Curl Waves (1940s – 1950s)
Soft, structured waves were a staple in vintage hairstyles.
- Start with damp hair: Section and twist small pieces of hair into curls, pinning them flat to your head. Use a setting diagram online to ensure you get the look you want. Use a setting spray for extra hold.
- Let it set: Put a hairnet or silk bonnet on and leave your hair to dry overnight or use a hood hairdryer if you’re in a hurry.
- Brush and shape: Once fully dry, gently brush out and shape with your fingers. Finish with hairspray for long-lasting hold.
Cat-Eye Liner (1950s)
The 1950s introduced the iconic winged eyeliner that remains a beauty favourite.
- Use a steady hand: Start from the inner corner and sweep outward with a flexible, thin liner brush. Place your elbow on your dressing table for stability.
- Perfect the flick: Follow the natural line from the outer corner of your eye from the lower lash line to lift, define and guide the wing. Connect the wing to the liner on your eyelid by starting a little below the end of your wing and drawing in a straight line. Fill in the little triangle.
- Clean up your mistakes: Use a cotton swab dipped in makeup remover for a sharp finish.
Cold Cream for Cleansing (1950s)
Before micellar water, cold cream was the go-to for removing makeup and moisturising.
- Massage in: Apply a generous layer to your face and massage in gently.
- Remove with a cloth: Use a warm damp cloth to wipe away makeup and impurities.
- Moisturise: Follow with a light, moisturiser for soft, clean skin.
Beehive Hair (1960)
The beehive was a bold and fashionable choice in the 60s.
- Tease for volume: Backcomb the crown area of your hair to create height.
- Smooth and shape: Carefully smooth the outer layer over the teased section.
- Secure and spray: Pin in place and set with a string-hold hairspray.
Homemade Beauty Masks (All Eras)
DIY beauty treatments were a must in the past.
- Honey and oatmeal mask: For soft, radiant skin, mix honey and finely ground oatmeal. Apply for 15 minutes, then rinse.
- Egg white face lift: Whip egg whites and apply to tighten pores temporarily.
Vaseline Tricks (All Eras)
A classic beauty staple, Vaseline still has many uses.
- Highlight skin: Dab inti cheekbones for a natural glow.
- Tame brows: Smooth a small amount onto eyebrows to keep them in place.
- Lip balm: Apply to lips for a sheen and instant hydration.
Why Vintage Beauty Hacks Still Work
These timeless tricks emphasise simplicity and creativity, using affordable and accessible products. Whether it’s the elegance of red lips or the glamour of vintage curls, these hacks offer a classic beauty approach that feels just as modern today.
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