How to Apply 50's Makeup

Review 1950s-era portraits for makeup inspiration.

The 1950's are regarded as a glamorous and ultra-feminine era in makeup. Pale skin and deep red lips are two hallmarks of this time period and frequently seen on 50's icons Marilyn Monroe and Elizabeth Taylor. Eye makeup was on the natural side during the day and was much smokier in the evening. Try pairing this makeup, arched eyebrows and soft curls to achieve the look.

Things You'll Need

• Pale, peachy foundation
• Matte and luminous loose powder
• Rosy-colored blush
• Black mascara
• Black liquid or pencil eyeliner
• Smokey eyeshadow
• Matte red lipstick
• Red lip liner

Instructions

Day Look

1. Apply peachy foundation.

   Soft peach-colored makeup was regarded as ultra-feminine. Dust loose powder over foundation for a matte look.

2. Use a rosy-colored blush.

   Sweep the blush upward to create a natural blush line.

3. Use black eyeliner on the top lids only.

   Apply liquid eyeliner if you have the skill, otherwise use pencil. Curl your eyelashes with an eyelash curler and brush a few coats of black mascara on the upper lashes.

4. Coat lips with a light, matte red lipstick.

Evening Look

1. Apply peachy foundation to the skin.

   Use luminous, rather than matte powder and dust cheeks with a rosy blush.

2. Apply black eyeliner to top and bottom lids.

   Then apply a smoky-colored eyeshadow to your eyelids. Curl the lashes and use heavy applications of black mascara.

3. Paint lips a deep, matte red. Use a matching lip liner to keep lips defined.

Tips & Warnings

• Keep eyebrows thin and slightly arched to complete your 50's look.

• Use brown eyeliner to create a Marilyn Monroe-like mole above the lips, if desired.

References

• Hair Style Cuts: 1950s Makeup
• College Candy: Makup 101: Theme Party Looks by Decade
• Fifties Web: Fifties Fashions: Hairstyles and Makeup