9 Vintage Makeup Ads That Will Make You Smile ...

The Revlon Magic Mascara ad depicted a glamorized image of the time—svelte fonts, bold visuals, and a promise of lashes voluminous enough to flutter hearts. It's a classic reminder of when makeup not only enhanced beauty but also served as a tool for innovation. Soon, the spiral brush became synonymous with the perfect lash application, a legacy that lives on in the twists and turns of modern mascara wands. Who knew the secret to those captivating 1950s eyes lay in a clever design still cherished today?

The picture embodies a beauty trend that today, seems almost whimsical. Who would have thought that brown-eyed belles were once encouraged to dabble in such a frigid palette? These hues, though trendy in times past, clash rather ironically with the warmth brown eyes naturally exude. Helena Rubenstein's line, while less prevalent stateside, still provides a nostalgic glimpse into the bold and sometimes baffling style choices of yesteryear. It's a testament to how beauty standards have evolved, and a comforting thought that today's makeup embraces a more complementary approach to individual features.

In 1966, the sensational trend was all about a shimmering pout paired with glinting nails—a nod to the era’s fascination with space-age radiance. These bold choices reflected a burgeoning confidence among women who embraced vibrancy and stood out from the demure past. Frosterinos were the go-to for that effervescent shine. Today's pearlized sheens, although more muted, still owe their lineage to that first wave of sparkle seekers. They allow modern makeup enthusiasts to dip their beauty brushes into the legacy of the past, while painting a fresh, contemporary face.

This glossy innovation added a touch of futuristic glam to the eyes, offering a bold, vinyl-like shine that commanded attention. The Max Factor Shiny Eye-Liner was ahead of its time, allowing for a high-fashion look that could transition seamlessly from a daytime shimmer to an all-out evening spectacle. Imagine the fun of flaunting such a statement look, only to playfully peel it away once the night concluded. However, caution was the key; a steady hand was necessary to avoid the discomfort of eyeliner that felt like a second skin!

Max Factor's innovation preempted the modern multi-hue collections we adore today. Ladies could mix, match, and tote their iconic '60s looks with ease, thanks to this compact treasure. Imagine the flutter of excitement as those first makeup enthusiasts experimented with shades, blending their own unique style. The Petite Boutique wasn't just a product, it was a bold statement of independence, allowing women to carry their beauty essentials in one chic case. This marked a colorful leap in cosmetic convenience, setting the standard for future glamour on-the-go.

Having a blast from the past with these makeup antics is nothing short of delightful. Savage, indeed, for conjuring up the enduring visage of a vivacious vixen or perhaps a vaudeville virtuoso with its stick-it-out rouge. And that smoky eye? Utterly groundbreaking for the 1930’s scene, setting stages and hearts ablaze. Fast forward to today, and these looks are still stealing the show at costume parties and on Halloween. Whether you're aiming for fright or delight, the boldness of that bygone era can make for one unforgettable transformation.

Mary Quant, the iconic designer known for her influence on mod fashion and her role in popularizing the mini skirt, also made waves in the beauty world. The eye gloss showcased in the ad could have you mistaken for a mod muse straight out of a time machine. While today's trends lean towards matte and natural shades, this blast from the past suggests that there's room for bold statement looks any time. Pair this with a monochromatic outfit, and you'd be the epitome of vintage chic. Just remember, fashion is cyclical—today's faux pas could be tomorrow's must-have!

Maybelline's roll-on lip gloss was a popular makeup item in the 1970s, featuring a glass bottle and fruity flavors. Today, the product has been reformulated and is now sold in plastic bottles, though it has been known to leak. The vintage ads for this product feature popular names from that era, such as Richie, Fred, David, and Bob. While the original glass bottle version can still be found online, it is no longer in production. Despite this, many vintage makeup enthusiasts still seek out these nostalgic lip glosses.