How to Imitate 1950s Makeup

Whether you were a glamorous movie star in a gorgeous evening gown, or a fresh-faced teenager in a colorful poodle skirt, makeup in the 1950s was an enthusiastic return to glamor after the pinched days of World War II. No lady would leave the house without her “face” in place! The look is high-maintenance but it’s not actually that difficult to achieve, if you follow the steps in these makeup tutorials.

Authentic 1950s Makeup

Bold red lips, dramatic eyes and a flawless foundation are the basic ingredients to this beautiful 50’s look. This tutorial focuses on products which mimic authentic 50’s colors, which gives the makeup a really convincing finish. For a classic winged eye, pay special attention at the 4:05-minute mark, where she demonstrates how to create a wing on the lower lash line first. This is an especially ladylike look, but it would complement any 1950’s costume.

Mad Men Makeup

This fresh, breezy look is based on a photoshoot featuring Mad Men’s January Jones. It’s a slightly updated style, but it keeps the porcelain matte effect that defines 1950’s makeup perfection. You can keep this look young and laid back by using a light hand with the gel liner as mentioned at the 5:40-minute marker. A sweet and girly style with a sexy edge that will take you just about anywhere.

Marilyn Monroe Makeup Tutorial

You can emulate Marilyn’s iconic hollywood glamor with the help of this detailed tutorial. From the arched eyebrows to the beauty spot, it’s all here. At the 11:30-minute mark we learn how Marilyn used three different colors on her lips to create her famous pout. The finished look is unmistakably Marilyn, but could easily be adapted to help you shine like any classic 1950s starlet.

Hollywood party

Here’s a subtle 1950’s inspired look to help you shine at any party. The tutorial begins with a quick pin curl hair set before showing you how to give an everyday party look a flavor of the 50’s. The most effective technique is shown at the 2:40 minute mark, where you can see how to create an easy eye flick with a flat brush.