Unleashing Power: How Red Lipstick Sparked a Revolution of Rebellion

There's no denying the undeniable allure and authority that a bold red lipstick exudes. From the fierce deep berry shades to the playful strawberry sweet hues, or the iconic bright sunset kisses, the power and confidence it bestows have stood the test of time. But have you ever wondered, amidst this timeless beauty tradition, when exactly did the legacy of the red lipstick pave its way into the echelons of style and sophistication? Let's delve into the captivating history of the crimson pout, a journey marked with strength, allure, and an unapologetic sense of empowerment.

Ancient Egyptian painted alabaster head from Treasure of Tutankhamen, New Kingdom, XVIII Dynasty. Photo By DEA / G. DAGLI ORTI/De Agostini/Getty Images.

Red lipstick has a rich and enduring history that spans over 5,000 years, tracing back to Mesopotamia, where both men and women adorned their lips with a striking red hue made from red rocks, gemstones, and white lead. The symbolic power of red lipstick continued to evolve through the era of the Ancient Egyptians, where it represented royalty, dominance, and social standing. Cleopatra, the iconic Egyptian ruler, crafted her own signature red lipstick from a blend of flowers, red ocher, fish scales, crushed ants, and carmine, a practice that resonates in modern cosmetic production. While in Egypt, red lipstick signified nobility, in Greece, it was a legal requirement for prostitutes to wear red lipstick in public as a marker of their profession. This historical journey of red lipstick underscores its timeless appeal and the cultural significance it has held across civilizations, making it a compelling choice for self-expression and empowerment through the ages.

The 16th Century debut of this iconic makeup item in England set the stage for its magnetic pull and negative associations. Despite the 'bad girl' stigma attached to it, Queen Elizabeth I boldly flaunted her rouge lips, confidently embracing the bold shade due to her royal position and wealth. Her fascination with red lipstick went beyond cosmetics; she attributed magical powers to it, believing it could bring healing and protection from death. However, history took a cruel turn as her beloved lipstick, containing toxic ceruse, unknowingly contributed to her slow demise from lead poisoning. Queen Elizabeth's story serves as a cautionary tale, highlighting the darker side of beauty trends and the importance of being aware of their potential risks.

The Darnley Portrait, c. 1575

By the 18th century the fear and prejudices surrounding women wearing red lipstick reveals a troubling trend of unfair judgment and discrimination. In England, the Parliament's decree prosecuting women for witchcraft based on the mere act of wearing lipstick is a stark example of how perceptions and stereotypes can lead to unjust treatment. The notion that lipstick-wearing women were seen as conniving and deceitful, capable of witchcraft and manipulation, is a reflection of the deeply ingrained societal biases of the time. It is disheartening to note that even in American states such as Pennsylvania, similar laws allowed men to seek annulment based on the sole premise of lipstick-wearing. However, women like Martha Washington challenged these norms by continuing to wear red lipstick despite the backlash. Such instances remind us of the importance of standing up against discrimination and staying true to oneself, regardless of societal expectations.

Lipstick, once shunned and associated with negative connotations, persevered through centuries of scrutiny thanks to the unwavering presence of women who valued its significance. The tide shifted in the 1900s as lipstick began to gain acceptance, especially when metal dispensers twirling up tubes of colorful hues became the norm in 1926, a design akin to today's sleek packaging. This modern twist catapulted lipstick sales to new heights, heralding a paradigm shift that saw the cosmetic industry through a business lens. Fast forward to 1933, and Vogue's bold declaration that applying lipstick was a pivotal act of the 20th century marked a turning point. Once stigmatized as a symbol of sexuality, lipstick transformed into a powerful emblem embraced by both women and men, with its allure no longer criticized but harnessed for personal and entrepreneurial empowerment.

In the 1940s, lipstick emerged as a symbol of resilience and empowerment for women amidst the hardships of World War II. As resources were diverted towards military efforts, lipstick became a scarce commodity, with packaging even shifting to humble paper. Yet, far from being a mere frivolous luxury, lipstick took on a profound significance, remaining a steadfast source of comfort and confidence for countless American women. Its power to uplift spirits and instill a sense of normalcy during challenging times was undeniable, with a remarkable 80-90% of women proudly wearing lipstick. The legacy of lipstick as a beacon of strength and femininity in the face of adversity remains a poignant reminder of the enduring influence of beauty and self-expression.

1939 Advertisement for Tangee ‘Beauty is a Duty’

As we continue on in the 21st Century, the significance of red lipstick has reached unprecedented heights as brands continue to innovate with a plethora of textures, shades, and finishes, catering to every individual's quest for the perfect confidence-boosting tube. The captivating history of red lipstick unveils a fascinating narrative where it transcended boundaries of class and gender, facing both praise and condemnation throughout the ages. Despite societal censure, the allure of red lipstick remained irresistible, highlighting the undeniable impact of makeup in elevating mood and self-assurance, especially during challenging times. Originating over 5000 years ago, the enduring influence of red lipstick persists as a timeless and iconic symbol, perpetually evolving and captivating generations to come.

Written by: Amanda Bernice

Resources:

Red Lipstick: An Ode to a Beauty Icon - Rachel Felder

Empowering, alluring, degenerate? The evolution of red lipstick - Jacqui Palumbo, CNN

The History of Red Lipstick - Becki Murray