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1950s inspired "power makeup"...

The makeup looks favoured in the 1950s have filtered through to many of the people who are regarded as "beautiful" and "feminine" today.

 

Dita Von Teese uses makeup that is very reminiscent of the 1950s look to complement her neo-burlesque performances - as a result we associate the red lipstick, winged eyeliner, bold eyebrows and carefully styled hair with something provocative and very feminine.

This style of makeup is very "on trend" and is sported by many women, including those who are also influenced stylistically by vintage fashion. Makeup like this, which has become very sexy and feminine, is contrasted with reserved knee length skirts and modest dresses.

 

This rockabilly style of clothing and makeup draws some of its inspiration from screen sirens like Elizabeth Taylor, the "style icon of her generation", whose makeup and clothing were a combination of sultry and classy sophistication.

Interestingly, the 1950s were seen as a bleak point in feminism, as post-WWII Britain returned to prioritising the "nuclear family", and women were encouraged to return to roles as wives and mothers. Perhaps the bolder makeup and fashion of this era was a response to the expectations of family life - maybe women were trying to prove that they could look good and be good at the same time...

Research into makeup as a statement

A very stereotypically "feminine" aspect of style and dress is makeup. Aside from a select few males (e.g. Boy George, Leigh Bowery), the majority of people who wear makeup are women. It can be used to completely change a person's appearance, even make them look more masculine or feminine.

Whilst researching feminism and makeup I found this very interesting article. Erin, the writer, discusses whether makeup is oppressive to women, and whether it's possible to be a follower of fashion and cosmetics trends and be a feminist at the same time.

She looks at how "control marks" like lipstick, corsets and high heels can be seen as signs of power and assertiveness, rather than a way of controlling or subduing women through making them wear uncomfortable, impractical clothes.

Many women seem to agree that makeup is now as much about making yourself feel good and giving you self confidence, as it is about making yourself look good to other people, in particular men. The article also raises the fact that both sexes now often wear makeup, e.g. fake tan, lip balm, eyeliner etc., regardless of sexuality.