Makeup has been a core part of everyday life in modern times, adding energy, passion and beauty to its wearers.
Undoubtedly, the subject of makeup has thrived thanks to the internet. Makeup fans and those curious about the history of the beauty industry and its social impact over time will shortly be able to visit the first Makeup Museum in the Meatpacking District of New York.
The museum’s first opening “Pink Jungle: 1950s Makeup in America,” explores makeup trends and influential women of the decade with icons and artefacts of beauty in the 1950s that were famously used by Marilyn Monroe and Greta Garbo.
The decision to focus the first exhibition on the 1950s is due to the fact global impact it had on the beginnings of the modern cosmetics industry. Just after the war, priorities changed, especially for women at that time who sought prosperity and the formation of a family. Therefore, finding a husband was fundamental, which resulted in women becoming more interested in makeup as they aimed to present the perfect look.
During the tour of the museum, visitors can observe the different stages of an industry with more than 10,000 years of history with examples of makeup from the ancient Egyptians to the kabuki and geisha makeup in Japan. Each colour used had a special meaning, with red being the most recurrent as it symbolised the value, strength and courage of its wearer. This still holds true today with makeup artists continuing to be inspired by the colour red.
There’s no doubt that there’s much to explore and discover about this industry that symbolises much of the past, present and future of our civilisation. Tickets are now on sale from the museum’s website, and you can also join the mailing list and be the first to receive news about the museum.
