Here’s a collection of vintage 1920s makeup colour charts along with some application guides. Makeup in the 1920s was coming of age and a new generation of women was discovering it. At this time, makeup products and colours were limited – most cosmetic items available were for skincare. Still, cosmetic brands were keen to shout about their products via colour swatches and handy application guides.
Makeup Colours of the 1920s
1923
Princess Pat made its rouge tint in just one colour. It claimed that it suited every skin tone, as the tint changed colour to match the complexion.
1925
This excerpt from a Boncilla brochure shows just how limited makeup colours were in the 1920s. Similarly, Jonteel face powder was available in just seven shades.
1926
Rouge in the 1920s was applied quite obviously to create a soft flushed look. This bit of advice from Princess Pat shows the 1920s woman how to apply rouge.
1927
Guidance from Coty on “How to Manicure”. Cake, powder and paste nail products were still very popular during the 1920s. Liquid nail varnish was just starting out.
1928
Rouge colours from The Pompeian Company.
1929
The Armand Company produced this booklet in 1929.
Find Out More
- Women’s 1920s Makeup: An Overview – more about vintage 1920s makeup.
- Hair & Beauty Adverts from the 1920s.
