Finding Beauty Through The Decades: The Roaring 1920s

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You can't fully understand the present without understanding the past. Makeup trends, beauty standards, and even the tools we use today all have roots in history. That's why we're launching our new series where we'll explore the makeup, fashion, and cultural influences that shaped beauty in the United States. Our journey begins with one of the most iconic eras of all: the Roaring Twenties.

The Decade of Rebellion and Transformation

The 1920s were marked by social change, rebellion, and celebration. One major influence was the Volstead Act, more commonly known as Prohibition, which outlawed the manufacture, sale, and transportation of alcohol. As traditional bars closed, underground speakeasies emerged, creating vibrant social spaces where music, dancing, and self-expression flourished.

At the same time, decades of work by suffragists and organizations advocating for women's rights culminated in the ratification of the 19th Amendment in 1920, granting women the right to vote. Women embraced newfound independence, and beauty became a form of self-expression and liberation.

The Rise of the Flapper

Short hairstyles became symbols of modern womanhood. Bobs, pin curls, and finger waves gained popularity, while shorter dresses and bold patterns reflected the carefree spirit of the era.

For the first time, women began applying makeup publicly. What had once been considered improper became fashionable, and cosmetics evolved from something hidden into a statement of confidence and individuality.

Hollywood's Influence

Silent films played a major role in shaping beauty trends. Since actors had to convey emotion without sound, exaggerated facial expressions and dramatic makeup became essential. Movie stars inspired women everywhere to embrace bold and expressive looks.

One of the most recognizable trends of the era was the thin, highly arched eyebrow. Women often shaved or plucked their brows and drew them back on with dramatic curves.

Global Influences on Fashion and Beauty

The 1920s also saw the influence of East Asian art and the fascination with ancient Egypt following the discovery of King Tutankhamun's tomb in 1922. Floral motifs, exotic prints, tunic-inspired dresses, kohl-lined eyes, and richly colored shadows became increasingly fashionable.

Beauty Standards and Social Realities

Although the decade is often remembered for glamour and progress, it existed alongside segregation and Jim Crow laws. Eurocentric beauty standards dominated society, and lighter skin was considered more desirable. Skin-lightening powders and bleaching creams were widely marketed, reflecting the inequalities and prejudices of the time.

Understanding these realities helps us see how beauty standards have evolved and why diversity and inclusivity remain so important today.

The Signature 1920s Complexion

Contouring as we know it today did not exist. Instead, the ideal was youthful, rounded cheeks. Women applied blush in large circular motions directly onto the apples of the cheeks, creating a fresh and doll-like appearance.

Smoky Eyes and Smudged Shadows

The eyes of the 1920s were dramatic and mysterious. Dark, smoky shadows were applied heavily around the eyes, often extending downward for a soft, smudged effect. Matte shades of black, blue, purple, green, and gold were popular.

Kohl pencils served double duty as both eyeliner and brow products. Brushes were not commonly used, so shadows were often applied with fingers, resulting in the soft, imperfect finish we now associate with vintage photographs.

Before False Lashes

Long before strip lashes and lash extensions, mascara was the beauty essential of the decade. Cake mascara came in a dry form and was activated with water before application.

Some women went to extraordinary lengths to achieve fuller lashes, using spirit gum adhesives or even sewing individual hairs into their eyelids, practices that thankfully remain in the past.

The Famous Bee-Sting Lip

No 1920s look would be complete without the iconic "bee-sting" lip. This style featured a small, defined Cupid's bow and a slightly pinched lip shape, usually finished with a bold red lipstick.

Lipstick was applied straight from the tube, often without brushes or liner, and some women even used stencils to perfect the shape.

Bringing the Roaring Twenties Back to Life

These techniques, products, and beauty standards tell the story of an era defined by change, glamour, and self-expression. While many trends have evolved, the influence of the 1920s can still be seen in modern beauty today.

Want to see these iconic looks recreated? Follow along with our Finding Beauty YouTube series, where we dive deeper into the history and demonstrate how these classic makeup styles were achieved. Watch as we bring the Roaring Twenties to life and discover how the past continues to inspire the beauty industry today.