The Bold History of Lipstick Beauty Power and Colour

The Ancient Beginnings

Cosmetics have been used for thousands of years, with lipstick tracing its roots all the way back to ancient civilisations. In Egypt, both men and women painted their lips using crushed minerals and natural dyes mixed with oils or wax.

Cleopatra herself was known for wearing red lipstick made from crushed beetles - yes, really. Lip colour wasn't just for beauty, it was a symbol of power and social standing. The bolder the shade, the more influence you were believed to have.

Greece, Rome and a Hint of Scandal

In ancient Greece and Rome, makeup held a more complicated role. While many women used lip colour made from plant-based tints, it wasn't always viewed kindly. In some circles, lipstick was associated with entertainers and courtesans.

Still, that didn't stop its popularity. Lipstick remained a staple, even if it had to be applied behind closed doors. The desire to enhance one's features never truly went away - it simply went underground for a time.

The Elizabethan Era's Bold Red

Fast forward to the 16th century, and lipstick was back in full force. Queen Elizabeth I famously wore a pale powdered face and deep red lips, a combination that sparked a new trend across her court and beyond.

Lipstick at the time was handmade from beeswax and natural dyes, carefully applied with brushes. It was considered an art - and a statement. A bold lip became a fashionable declaration of poise and strength.

A Victorian Backstep

Despite its rise in popularity, lipstick fell out of favour again during the prim-and-proper Victorian era. Society viewed makeup as improper, with a natural look being more acceptable for 'respectable' women.

Still, a little tint wasn't unheard of - though it was often applied in secret. Homemade mixtures and tinted balms gave the illusion of bare beauty. Lipstick may have faded in visibility, but it never truly disappeared.

Hollywood's Golden Influence

By the early 20th century, the film industry changed everything. Silent film stars like Clara Bow made the "cupid's bow" lip shape famous, and with it came a new obsession with lipstick. Red shades, in particular, were in high demand.

Fun fact: In old black and white movies, actresses often wore green lipstick, this is due to the red showing up very black on film - So, green was used to create a lighter tone, giving the looks a more real to life effect.

Makeup brands began selling lipstick in the bullet-style tubes we still use today. It became portable, fashionable, and entirely mainstream. A swipe of lipstick was now part of everyday life - and a little bit of glamour went a long way.

A Symbol of Expression

As decades passed, lipstick grew into something much bigger than just a beauty item. It became a way to express personality, mood, even rebellion. From glossy pinks in the '60s to dark purples in the '90s, lips told stories.

Lipstick has been linked to moments of empowerment, from women's rights movements to post-war optimism. It remains one of the simplest yet most powerful tools for changing how we feel - without saying a word.

Today's Lipstick Landscape

Modern lipsticks come in endless varieties: matte, satin, sheer, glossy, tinted, and more. There's something out there for every taste and every occasion, from quiet coffee dates to bold nights out.

While trends come and go, the confidence that comes with wearing your favourite shade never really changes. Whether you're loyal to a classic red or enjoy switching it up with every outfit, the joy of lipstick is timeless.

Celebrate in Style

This National Lipstick Day, why not mark the occasion with something memorable? A little self-celebration goes a long way.

Whether you're booking a Makeover, gifting a beauty experience to a friend, or simply treating yourself to something new, it's the perfect excuse to feel fabulous. Think makeup moments, lashes, photos, gift cards - the works.

Because lipstick is more than a beauty product. It's a celebration of you.