The Book

Retro Makeup: Techniques for Applying the Vintage Look

Makeup is so common today that many of us do not give a second thought to its beginnings. During the formative years of the early and mid-twentieth century, cosmetics developed greatly and became what we are most familiar with today.

Each decade of this time period had its own style of makeup; its own signature lips, eye makeup, rouge techniques, etc. This book shows the changes in makeup styles over these decades and provides practical, easy-to-follow steps and guidance in recreating a vintage face. By using the trends in shape and color of a specific decade, emulating a time period is even easier and better replicated.

Lauren Rennells has written Retro Makeup as a companion book to the internationally successful Vintage Hairstyling: Retro Styles with Step-by-Step Techniques. That does not mean this is the same book, only about makeup. With countless hours of research, a multitude of interesting facts about makeup style during the early and mid-20th century was unearthed and are provided in a fun, colorful layout.

This 104-page full-color book starts with a brief history of makeup during the Victorian and Edwardian Eras and then provides practical knowledge in applying makeup to help better use the information provided in each decade. It then jumps into full details about makeup styles during the 1920s, 1930s, 1940, 1950s and 1960s, with each decade having its own dedicated chapter. Each decade has information on historical events and innovations in products that were affecting makeup trends, popular shapes, and colors. Also in each decade are start-to-finish instructions on various makeup looks made popular by movie stars, models and beauty magazines of the time.

No matter your skill level or makeup goal, Retro Makeup has something for everyone. Whether you are researching for a theatrical production, hosting a time period party, or just love the look of beauty of a specific decade, this book will not disappoint. It is as much fun to read as it is to apply the knowledge it provides.

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