logo

head portrait Sign Out
icon_more
logo
head portrait

Embrace the 1940s: Beauty and Hair Inspiration for D-Day’s 80th Anniversary

PHOTO: Yueke

June 6th marks the 80th anniversary of D-Day, the historic Normandy landings during World War II. While much has changed in fashion and self-presentation over the decades, the classic beauty looks of 1944 continue to influence today's standards.

Makeup brands like Max Factor and Maybelline, launched in the early 1900s, offer products that surprisingly resemble those from the 1940s. Here are some iconic 1940s makeup trends and how to recreate them today:

Powdered Skin

In 1944, the trend favored overly powdered, matte skin, a stark contrast to today's preference for natural, dewy finishes. Women used pale, heavy powdered foundation paired with a touch of pink blush for a flawless complexion. To achieve this look today, use a powder foundation or set your liquid foundation with a loose setting powder for an airbrushed, matte finish. This look is best for those with oily skin, as it can be drying for others.

Red Lips

A bright red lip was the hallmark of 1940s makeup. To get the perfect red lip, start with a high-quality red lip liner to outline and fill in your lips, creating a base for your lipstick. Opt for a matte red lipstick for longevity and a classic 1940s look.

Soft Curls

The popular hairstyle in 1944 featured soft, delicate waves, often in a bob cut. This style evolved from the tighter finger waves and pin curls of the 1920s, becoming looser and more relaxed. To channel this look, use a curling iron or rollers to create gentle waves and brush them out for a soft, vintage feel.

Arched Brows

In the 1940s, women favored overly arched, thin eyebrows, a departure from today’s trend of natural, bushy brows. To achieve this look without over-plucking, use brow gel to shape your eyebrows or apply concealer around the edges to create the illusion of a thinner brow.

Barely-There Eye Makeup

With the emphasis on bold red lips, eye makeup in the 1940s was kept minimal. Avoid dark or statement eye makeup to stay true to this era. Instead, use brown mascara or pencil liner on your waterline to subtly define your eyes without overpowering the red lips.

By embracing these classic 1940s beauty trends, you can pay homage to the timeless elegance of the D-Day era while incorporating a touch of vintage glamour into your modern look.


Was this page helpful?

Related Articles