Here we have a collection of vintage 1950s makeup colour charts and brochure excerpts. They give us an insight into the popular colours provided by mainstream cosmetic brands. Additionally, application guides also tell us how makeup was put on and what the fashionable eye, cheek and lip shapes were.
Makeup Colours of the 1950s
1950
Max Factor liked the principle of “color harmony”. Here is a guide showing which Max Factor products harmonised with each of the basic hair colours.
1951
Nail polish colour chart from Cutex. The chart also shows the oval shape of nails during this era.
Pan-Cake from Max Factor was a very popular foundation. Here’s an application guide from the brand itself.
1954
Makeup application guidance – the 1950s way to wear it.
1956
A small range of lip colours from Yardley. Eyeshadow was in the popular shades of blue, violet and green. Simple names that conveyed exactly what it was!
1957
Excerpt from the August 1957 Avon brochure. Avon regularly produced catalogues and brochures showcasing their latest colours and products.
1958
Some foundation, rouge and lip colours from Pond’s. Foundations often had a pink undertone to them.
1959
An eye makeup application guide from Avon. Notice how the eye colour is one shade and goes from lash to brow – very much the 1950s way!
Another guide, this time from Revlon. Once again, one colour of eyeshadow is applied from lash to brow.
Find Out More:
- Women’s 1950s Makeup: An Overview – a look at vintage 1950s makeup.
- Hair & Beauty Adverts from the 1950s.
