18th Century Makeup.In the 18th century it was considered appropriate to wear makeup and to not be ashamed to do so. Cosmetics were used heavily in the 18th century, the use of cosmetics was not only for vanity but for practical uses too - they could hide the effects of disease, blemishes, the sun or age. Women would wear thick layers of white paint made from lead to conceal and lighten their skin. Rouge was used on their cheeks in an upside triangle or circular shape to brighten their face up. "Mouches" also known as beauty patches were worn, see a previous post to find out their meanings and what they were made from (18th Century Beauty Marks Part 1 & 2). Eyebrows tended to be shaped like a half-moon and tapered at the ends, they would be darkened with burnt cork, lampblack, kohl or elderberries. Occasionally false brows made from mouse fur were worn. Eye lids were usually left bare but lashes would often be darkened. Small lips were favoured, with a larger bottom lip, this was to create a soft and gentle rosebud effect. Lips were painted red; vermillion was painted onto the lips or distilled vinegar was used to redden the lips. I created a quick 18th century makeup of my own. I enjoyed creating this look, choosing what beauty marks I wanted was fun; the crescent by my eye means passionate (Chosen because I'm passionate about makeup), the heart on my left cheeks means that I vote for the Whigs party (Bit of historical politics) and the circle by my lips means kissable (I wanted one by my mouth and it was either kissable or silent and I thought kissable sounded more fun).
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AuthorThis blog is to follow on from my university final project, which was a historical reference book on ‘Female Hair and Makeup Throughout History’. Each week I will release a post featuring an era and an aspect of hair, makeup and fashion from the time. I will also have my makeup muse of the week, who could be a makeup or fashion trendsetter of their time or a makeup artist who has innovated the industry. Archives
November 2016
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