How to Do 1950s Makeup

Elizabeth Taylor demonstrates the makeup trends of the 1950's.

In the 1950s, many women used neutral eye shadows, black eyeliner, red lipstick or light lip gloss to create classy makeup trends. Famous stars such as Elizabeth Taylor, Marilyn Monroe and Audrey Hepburn all demonstrated the classic makeup trends that flourished during the era. Whether you’re dressing up in a 1950s Halloween costume or merely enjoy simple elegance, these makeup trends can easily be duplicated.

Things You'll Need

• Foundation
• Face powder
• Blush
• Eyeliner
• Eye shadow
• Mascara
• Eyelash curler
• Lipstick
• Lip gloss
• Makeup sponge
• Powder brush
• Roundation brush
• Blush brush
• Eye shadow applicator

Instructions

1. Apply foundation. If you use liquid or cream foundation, dot the foundation onto your face and blend it using a damp sponge or foundation brush. If you use a powder foundation, use a dry makeup sponge. If you want heavier coverage, lightly dampen the sponge.

2. Once your foundation has been applied, it’s time to conceal any imperfections that weren’t covered up by your foundation. Your under eyes and blemishes are common things that may need a little extra help.

3. Set your foundation using your powder brush to lightly dust face powder over the foundation. If necessary, apply a second coat.

4. Apply eye makeup. The trend of the 1950s was to have neutral eye shadows that were set off by heavy eyeliner. Choose a light brown or taupe eye shadow as a wash for your lid, a light color to highlight your brow bone and a darker brown to contour your eye. Apply the wash using an eye shadow applicator,and apply the darker color in the crease of your eyes. Apply the light color to your brow bone and blend the colors together. Line your eyes with a black liquid eyeliner.

5. Curl your eyelashes with an eyelash curler and then apply a coat of mascara. Allow the coat to dry and apply a second coat.

6. Apply blush. Choose a neutral pink blush that compliments your complexion. Use your blush brush to apply it to the apples of your cheeks. If you notice any harsh lines, use your face powder to blend them away.

7. The finishing touch to your 1950s makeup look is red lipstick. Since you are using such a vibrant color it is crucial to line your lips with lip liner. Once your lips are lined, fill them in with a matching red lipstick.

Tips & Warnings

• For dramatic eyelashes, use apply false eyelashes. Many women wore them during the 1950s.

• Don’t fall victim to red lipstick on your teeth. Lightly blot your lips to remove any excess lipstick and periodically check your teeth to make sure the lipstick hasn’t migrated.