It’s time to discuss one of the makeup trends that never seems to fade or be anything less than classic, classy or down-right glam. All without being cheap.
And that is the divine style of vintage glam, and here we are celebrating my pick of the brands that define vintage glam – brands that you can still buy from off the shelves in this very day and age.
Now, they say that fashion and styles go in circles or a cyclical motion. So ironically, we are led to think that certain styles come and go.
But at the same time, for me, there are many, many classic makeup styles, colors and looks that never go out of style, and that have to come to represent a Hollywood-star kind of chic. These are the brands we are going to celebrate today, that can help you achieve these classic looks at home, and with ease, I assure you.
From shades reminiscent of the 1920s to packaging that can’t help but scream retro glamor (are you as big a sucker for some serious vintage packaging as I am?) These brands can help bring a playful sense of innocence and nostalgia to the beauty industry.
And let’s not deny it – the beauty is saturated with overly “clean,” serious, and hard-hitting brands, so it’s nice to loosen up a bit and have some fun. And that’s exactly what these retro-glam companies do, and my, oh my, don’t they do it well?
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Okay, are you ready to turn back time (apologies if you’ve got a bit of Cher floating around in your head now!) and dive head-first into the world of vintage-inspired makeup?
Let’s go!
1
Bèsame Cosmetics
When you think of vintage beauty, if this brand doesn’t already spring to mind, it will from this day forward. Bèsame firmly embraces the notion that “history meets beauty.”
Bèsame Cosmetics offers a boutique range of lipsticks, powders, and mascaras, as well as gorgeous, feminine sets of vintage-era perfume and nail polish combos as well.
The packaging is exquisite and ornate.
Founder Gabriela Hernandez formulates her products with high-quality ingredients.
Its these things that contribute to Bèsame Cosmetics being among some of the best vintage makeup products available today.
I can also go no further without casting a wing-lined eye on the sumptuous packaging of Besame Cosmetics, which is exquisite and ornate – it will transport you to a different time, perhaps that of a silent film star with its Art Deco-inspired design.
If there’s a red color in lipstick that was big in the 20th century, then it’s been artfully recreated at Besame.
My favorite shade (among many) would have to be “American Beauty,” but do check out the classic “Red Velvet” for more than a pop of vintage Hollywood glam on your lips – one of Besame’s best sellers, might I add. Oh, and then there’s the cake mascara, and the nail polish, I could go on and on.
Bèsame truly offers a great deal of my favorite products to create vintage makeup styles, whether it’s for myself, for special occasions, or within the film industry or makeup industry.
You can check out the entire delightful product range of Bèsame Cosmetics here.
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2
Benefit Cosmetics
Ah, Benefit Cosmetics. Sometimes she feels like an old friend that I can call up after not having spoken to her for months, and it’s like no time has passed at all.
From the iconic boxed blushes to their whimsical product names (and who can resist a mascara called They’re Real? Right?)
Look no further than Benefit for vintage-inspired makeup paired with a playful, quirky edge.
Benefit’s makeup products are all about fun and experimentation. Their sassy, eye-catching packaging and bright hues are perfect for creating retro-inspired makeup looks that still feel fresh and modern.
The classic Benetint cheek and lip tint is a product I rely on time and time again, regardless of my job or situation.
Benefit has a quality-filled line, with everything you need to create charming retro-inspired looks. Coupled with cute and quirky packaging, using a Benefit product is always a delight.
You can check out the entire delightful product range of Benefit Cosmetics here.
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3
The Balm Cosmetics
OMG, The Balm’s fun and playful aesthetic, directly inspired by the 1950s makeup and pinup era, is well worth checking out if you haven’t.
A 20-year-old brand that came out of founder Marissa Shipman’s love and self-confessed obsession for all things beauty, you get a personal feel for her sense of humor with her range.
The Balm product range will make you feel like you’re living in an old-school tv sitcom. And their versatile palettes – blushes and eyeshadows, lipstick shades are just the ticket for creating soft, subtle everyday looks or glam, disco-inspired makeup looks as well.
One of the things I love the most about The Balm is that Shipman has successfully combined EWG-savvy products with playfulness, and a girly sense of so much fun, all without being overly serious.
With cruelty-free being on the top of The Balm’s product checklist, you can rest assured you’ll feel good when using these fab products.
Who says clean and green-aware beauty has to be so stuffy or pretentious, anyway?
You can check out the entire delightful product range of The Balm here.
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4
The Vintage Cosmetic Company
This British cosmetic brand takes vintage to an entirely new level.
Their beauty accessories and vintage products aren’t just inspired by retro aesthetics but are also designed to look like they’re straight out of the 50s and 60s.
Everything is beautifully packaged in pastel hues and floral prints, from powder puffs to makeup brushes. To the most divine and luxurious shower caps, pampering bath sets, and super cute head wraps that you’ll actually want to wear and be seen in. No more feeling like you have a giant condom on your head when taking a plunge in the local pool anymore!
Their faux lashes in “Nancy” will give you the perfect doe-eyed look. And come to mention it – The Vintage Cosmetic Company was born out of their false eyelashes, so you know they’re doing something right!
And they may just carry the most beautiful tail comb I have ever seen!
With a new US online store in the works, I will keep you posted when that goes live.
You can check out the entire delightful product range of The Vintage Cosmetic Company here.
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5
Lipstick Queen
While the stark and striking lipstick shades and bold tones may not be steeped in historical accuracy, the very now, Instagram-able looks your Lipstick Queen lippies, and their cheeky lipstick names do lend themselves to a bygone era.
Inspired by the vintage glamour of Hollywood icons like Marilyn Monroe, their lipsticks come in a range of shades from classic reds to deep purples.
With titles such as Blue By You, Jungle Queen, and Silver Screen, I couldn’t neglect that Lipstick Queen holds a spot amongst my fave Vintage inspired makeup brands.
And their Famous Last Words liquid lipstick has a long-lasting formula that will keep your makeup look flawless all night long.
I must also tip my hat to a vintage makeup brand that can be so brave to present these strong, vibrant shades and stark packaging that definitely stands out in the crowd. And at affordable prices, let’s not deny it.
You can check out the entire delightful product range of Lipstick Queen here.
6
Stila
Cosmetic stalwart Stila provides makeup products that are well-known for their innovative formulas and sleek packaging, but let’s not ignore that the brand also has a nostalgic side.
The Stila Stay All Day Liquid Lipstick in Beso is a cult favorite, thanks to its classic red shade that’s inspired directly by all things vintage.
Stila’s eyeshadow palettes are also great for creating retro-inspired makeup looks, with versatile shades that can be used to create everything from a sultry ’60s cat eye to a soft, romantic ’40s look. And everything in between, and beyond!
Keep an eye out for one of their new products, the Stila Calligraphy Lip Stain, which I am all about!
I also can’t go past the classic charm (and contents) of the Convertible Color Dual Lip and Cheek Cream. One can’t help but suspect Stila was doing the cream cheek product long before her competitors, that’s for sure!
You can check out the entire delightful product range of Stila here.
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Lime Crime
Lime Crime can be seen as equal parts dreamy and edgy. Giving a nod to the psychedelia of the 1960s and 1970s. Bright and bold shades rule the roost at Lime Crime.
But don’t let that fool you into thinking that the vintage apple fell far from the tree.
Lime Crime also presents a line of vintage-inspired products that are perfectly suited to the retro lovers among us.
The Venus eyeshadow palettes are a must-have if you’re looking to create a sultry, smoky eye that’s lifted straight outta the 70s. And you want to bond with your inner flower child once more.
Lime Crime Velvetines lipsticks and pencils (my faves) come in classic hues of red and pink. And they are just perfect for creating a bold, iconic lip that will never go out of style.
The Lime Crime packaging is playful yet chic, and their products are vegan and cruelty-free. You may think it’s for a younger audience. But let me tell you, if you’re still emotionally involved with the 1990s (and yes, they’re back again!!!) or as I mentioned, the 60s and 70s. Then you should really have a look at the light and bubbly world of Lime Crime, regardless of your age!
You can check out the entire delightful product range of Lime Crime here.
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And before I go, vintage-inspired makeup brands can be a beauty staple (and a brilliant gift, FYI). Mainly because they offer a nod to a bygone era of glamour and elegance.
In a world where fast fashion and disposable trends always dominate, it’s refreshing to see a beauty trend that values timeless style and sophistication.
As I mentioned – the word “trend” seems so double-edged. Because to me, vintage glam is going nowhere. And therefore is immune to being labelled as such.
By incorporating vintage-inspired makeup into your beauty routine, you’re adding a touch of nostalgia to your look. And celebrating the beauty of the past.
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And there you have it, my friend. Vintage-inspired makeup brands offer a unique and timeless beauty experience with more than a hint of humor thrown in for good measure.
Whether you’re a seasoned makeup pro or a newbie to the beauty game, there’s a vintage brand out there for everyone. These brands are a must-have in any beauty collection, from the high-quality formulations to the nostalgic charm.
So, go ahead. Embrace your inner vintage vixen – your beauty routine (and your IG feed) will sing your praises from the rooftops!
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Would you like to learn more about vintage makeup?
Jump on the waitlist and be the first to hear about my very own vintage makeup course Vintage Makeup Society!
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I hope that I’ve exposed you to some vintage makeup brands you may not have heard of before. Whether creating your next vintage-style makeup for a photo shoot or mixing it up with your own timeless beauty look, vintage-inspired makeup is the perfect choice!
Celebrate a new-found, classic look, with a hint of good humor, you can easily achieve the vintage glam look and feel like a Hollywood icon from the past.
From the classic red lipstick to the bold winged eyeliner, vintage-inspired makeup is all about mastering old-school techniques and applying them with a modern twist.
And with this list of stellar brands to support you, regardless of whether you’re a makeup artist or a novice, you’ll fall in love with the stunning array of vintage-inspired beauty products, and the looks can achieve, too!
