Makeup has a fascinating history of design – from beautiful packaging artwork to clever cosmetics for those with disabilities, it’s not just the final look that matters in the world of makeup. Check out this awesome list of makeup designs and decide which is your favourite. What would you like to see in makeup design next?
Mary Quant: Queen of 1960s – 70s makeup design
Quant was one of the coolest designers of not just makeup, but clothing and accessories in the 1960s and 70s. She transformed cosmetics with simple packaging, bold colours and her famous daisy branding. Her brushed-metal lipstick tubes were sleek and simple to use and while her nail varnishes came in distinctive rounded bottles. Quant’s makeup was the must-have of the day and all of this done without social media influencers. Quant even drove a ‘beauty bus’ around the globe, giving tips and tutorials to young teens everywhere!
Art deco powder bowl
This lotus-shaped lovely powder bowl was made in the 1930s, right in the middle of the famous Art Deco period, known for it’s clean lines and sleek, geometric glamour. This gorgeous green bowl would have made a fantastic addition to someone’s dresser. The lid would have revealed fine powder to set makeup with. Would you have this in your bedroom?
Beauty made easier…
Guide Beauty founder, Terri Bryant, invented products to help those suffering with dexterity problems. Terri herself suffers with Parkinsons and in collaboration with product designers, Essential Design, this gorgeous lash and brow gel was made with a ring on the outside of the base to allow for stability of the fingers when applying. The sleek shape and materials used were also considered to prevent injury. So clever!
Is it a leaf?
Schiaparelli was a famous fashion designer who created the most incredible cosmetic ranges. This perfume bottle is no exception. Shaped like a leaf with a perfect pink heart-shaped box, anyone lucky enough to have one of these on their dressing tables would have been no doubt, absolutely delighted! Succès Fou had notes of patchouli and wood with citrus, making it an intoxicating scent.
Purrfect powder!
Back when people were convinced Y2K was going to end the world, Benefit cosmetics released a powder puff in a round cardboard box that brought a welcome bit of glamour to the worries. This puff was infused with fine glitter and could be used all over the body. It looked fab on the dresser and the wearer! Winner.
