Hedy Lamarr wasn’t just a silver screen legend. She was a style icon, known for her effortlessly elegant beauty and timeless fashion. If you’ve ever wanted to capture her glamorous 1940s look, here’s how to do it.
Hair: Sleek Waves and Perfect Shine
Hedy Lamar’s hair was iconic. It became part of her signature look and a symbol of Golden Age glamour. Thick, dark, and impossibly glossy, her hair was usually styled in soft, sculpted waves that framed her face like a work of art. This style wasn’t just beautiful – it also photographed incredibly well, which made it perfect for the black-and-white film era.
Her waves weren’t wild or overly voluminous. They were controlled, elegant, and symmetrical. This gave her a polished, almost regal appearance on screen. The look became so popular that 1940s women often brought photos of Hedy to their salons, asking for the same style.
How to get it:
- Start with a centre part.
- Use a curling iron or hot rollers to create large smooth curls. Look up a setting pattern for Hedy Lamarr online for help.
- When cool, gently brush out the curls with a boar bristle brush to form soft, s-shaped waves.
- Set with a serum and use hairspray for hold to mimic her polished finish.
- Tuck one side of your hair behind your ear and add a small jewelled clip for that old-Hollywood drama.
This hairstyle is ideal for special occasions, vintage events, or whenever you want to channel that Old Hollywood magic. It’s timeless. Elegant. And just a little bit mysterious.
Makeup: Soft Glam with Striking Eyes
Hedy Lamar’s beauty was often described as otherworldly. But her makeup was surprisingly soft and refined – never overdone. The goal was balance. Her flawless skin and subtle contouring allowed her striking features – especially those almond-shaped eyes – to take centre stage.
Her look was the definition of 1940s elegance. Clean. Sculpted. Effortlessly feminine.
Get Hedy Lamar’s makeup:
- The face: Start with a matte foundation that evens out the skin and gives a soft, velvety texture. In the 1940s, dewy skin wasn’t the trend – women aimed for a powdery, porcelain finish. Apply a light dusting of translucent powder to set everything in place. Cheekbones were subtly defined, not overly contoured. Use a muted rose or peach-toned blush on the apples of the cheeks and blend it upwards toward the temples. This adds natural warmth without overpowering the look.
- The Brows: Hedy’s brows were bold but beautifully shaped. Thick, high-arched, and slightly angular. Use a brow pencil or powder close to your natural colour (or a touch darker for drama). Follow the natural shape but sharpen the arch slightly to capture her sculpted look. Brush through for a soft, natural finish.
- The Eyes: Start with a neutral matte eyeshadow base – think soft beige, taupe, or warm brown. Deepen the crease slightly for definition but avoid heavy shimmer or dramatic colours. Line the upper lash line with black or dark brown eyeliner. Hedy didn’t wear a thick cat eye like later stars, but she did use eyeliner to define and elongate the eyes. A subtle flick is all you need to need to lift and define your eye shape. Apply black mascara generously to the top lashes, and lightly to the bottom.
- Lips: Though red was the most iconic lip colour of the era, Hedy often wore deeper, cooler shades – think rich berry, muted wine, or classic crimson. Her lips were always soft and velvety, not glossy or overly lined. Use a lip brush to apply your chosen shade with precision. The result should look plush and pillowy, not wet or shiny.
Clothing: Elegance in Every Stitch
Hedy Lamarr’s style was the perfect blend of sophistication and sensuality. Her wardrobe choices, both on and off screen, reflected the refined glamour of the 1940s – with an added touch of mystery that made her unforgettable. She wore clothing that accentuated her figure but never shouted for attention. Everything was tailored, intentional, and deeply feminine.
Her fashion sense was grounded in classic silhouettes, luxurious fabrics, and subtle drama. She didn’t need flashy colours or excessive embellishments. Her presence did the talking.
Daywear:
When not in full Hollywood glam, Hedy still dressed impeccably. She wore well-tailored suits, high-waisted trousers, and structured blouses that hinted at softness without losing shape.
Key features:
- Wide-legged trousers paired with tucked in blouses
- Nipped-in waists on jackets and dresses, often emphasised with belts
- Peplum tops and pencil skirts for a streamlined, hourglass silhouette
Eveningwear:
Hedy was often seen in gowns that floated as she moved. Think floor-length dresses with flowing skirts, cinched waists, and graceful necklines. Bias-cut satin, silk charmeuse, and velvet were go-to fabrics that draped like a dream.
Look for:
- Sweetheart or off-the-shoulder necklines to highlight the collarbone
- Ruched bodices or gathered details to create soft structure
- Long, fluid skirts that skim the body without clinging too tightly
Accessories were minimal but thoughtful. A pair of gloves, a clutch, a slim belt – always coordinated. And she never over-accessorised. The focus was always on clean lines and perfect proportion.
Shoes and Accessories
- Pointed-toe pumps or strappy heels in satin or suede
- Small, structured handbags or envelope clutches
- Delicate jewellery – a single strand of pearls or a sparkling brooch was often enough
Hedy Lamar’s clothing wasn’t about excess. It was about intention. Every silhouette, every texture, every cut told a story of quiet confidence and classic glamour.
Hedy Lamarr’s style was the epitome of Old Hollywood glamour; elegant, refined, and effortlessly captivating. Her signature look featured sculpted waves, flawless matted skin, defined eyes and velvety lips in deep reds or berry tones. She favoured luxurious fabrics like satin and velvet, classic 1940s silhouettes, and simple yet dramatic details. Every element of her look was timeless and polished, making her a true style icon of the silver screen era.
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