8 Vintage Bridal Makeup Looks to Take Inspiration From: From 1920s to 1990s

When it comes to vintage wedding makeup, nothing compares to the elegance and timelessness of looks spanning the 1920s through the 1990s. Each decade offers unique flair, providing a wealth of vintage wedding makeup ideas for brides seeking to channel different styles. 

Every era has its standout features, from the bold glamour of the 1920s to the minimalistic beauty of the 1990s. If you’re the type of bride who wants to try every look, let’s journey through these decades.

This article will highlight the most iconic wedding makeup ideas to help you achieve that perfect vintage wedding makeup look for your special day.

Vintage Wedding Makeup Ideas to Try

1920s: The Era of Vintage Glamor

The 1920s vintage makeup was all about drama and sophistication. Vintage bridal makeup from this era showcased bold lips, smoky eyes, and defined brows. A classic red lip and dark, brushed brows paired with a flawless complexion set the tone for this decade using brow pencil.

Brides often used black liner to create a sultry winged eyeliner, paired with voluminous lashes to make the eyes the focal point. If you’re aiming for a 1920s vintage wedding makeup look, don’t forget to incorporate a matte skin finish and a lip brush to ensure that bold lip shade stays in place.

1930s: Timeless Elegance with Soft Glamour

In the 1930s, wedding makeup looks became softer and more refined. Vintage wedding makeup from this era emphasized a timeless look with rosy cheeks, soft eye makeup, and lip liner that enhanced the natural shape of the lips.

Defined brows and a subtle smokey shadow in warm browns were common choices, adding a touch of depth without overpowering the face. A neutral eyeshadow and foundation for brides inspired by this era can help create a soft and elegant wedding makeup look.

1940s: The Bold Red Lips Era

During the 1940s, a bold look with red lips was the centerpiece of vintage-inspired makeup. This decade favored natural beauty with a polished touch, using lip color in classic red shades to make a statement during one’s wedding day. Winged eyeliner and a flawless complexion were staples in 1940s vintage wedding makeup. 

Brides in this era typically paired their makeup with wedding hairstyles featuring soft curls, turning heads with their timeless choice of classic elegance. If you’re the bride leaning toward this decade, don’t skip the lip brush for a perfect red lip application, and you’ll surely turn heads.

1950s: The Iconic Marilyn Monroe Glam

The 1950s gave birth to an era of vintage glamour defined by the iconic makeup looks of Marilyn Monroe. Brides often wore winged eye tints, red lips, and full lashes. Makeup artists of this era created dramatic eye makeup using a combination of smokey eyeshadow on the inner corners and black eyeliner along the outer corners, emphasizing the natural arch of the brows. 

If you opt for a 1950s look on your wedding day, complement your vintage wedding dress with full coverage foundation and a peach blush for a fresh, youthful glow. Ask your makeup artist to give it their own twist on this vintage makeup look. 

1960s: Bold Eyes and Mod Beauty

The 1960s brought bold looks into focus, especially around the eyes. Makeup artists popularized winged liners and well-kept brows to create a statement. Brides loved neutral lipstick shades, letting their eyeshadow take center stage.

To achieve a 1960s-inspired vintage wedding makeup look, use a neutral eyeshadow palette, apply eyeliner, and focus on defined lashes for a wide-eyed effect. Nude shade lips kept the gorgeous look balanced and refined, allowing the eyes to shine.

1970s: The Natural Look Revolution

Natural and glowing beauty took over in the 1970s. Vintage-inspired makeup from this decade emphasized a natural flush, with brides opting for a no-makeup look that accentuated their natural features. A light powder foundation and nude lips were all the rage, giving brides a fresh, youthful appearance.

A minimalist look was complemented by a light powder foundation and makeup ideas that embraced a minimalistic approach, making this one of the preferred wedding makeup for outdoor weddings or nature-loving brides.

1980s: Embrace the Bold

In contrast to the 1970s, the 1980s were all about bold lips and defined features. Brides in this era were not afraid of color, often choosing bright pink, red, and even purple for their lips. The makeup for eyes was just as daring, with smoky eyes and bold lashes turning heads.

If you’re aiming for a vintage-inspired 1980s look, go for full-coverage foundation, shimmery highlighter, and defined eyebrows. Winged liner was another key element of this bold era, along with a bright blush that added to the vibrant look.

1990s: Minimalism at its Finest

The 1990s brought back a more minimalistic, clean aesthetic. Vintage wedding makeup from this decade focused on flawless skin and a soft nude lip. Wedding makeup during this period was characterized by a glowy look, with soft makeup that enhanced the bride’s natural features without overpowering them. Often, this is paired with simple wedding hair. 

The best wedding makeup ideas from the 1990s involve a light foundation and a neutral eyeshadow to create a timeless, effortless look. Lip liner was often used to add definition to nude lips, completing the soft, understated appearance.

How to Choose Your Vintage Makeup 

Selecting the perfect vintage wedding makeup comes down to your personal style and how you want to feel on your wedding day. Whether you’re drawn to the bold lips of the 1940s or the soft, natural glow of the 1970s, there are vintage wedding makeup ideas for every bride.

Don’t forget to schedule a makeup trial with your makeup artist to test out your desired look and make adjustments according to your skin tone. Whatever era you choose, remember that elegance will always shine through, ensuring you feel your best on your special day.

Cath

Cath initially pursued a Doctor of Medicine degree but eventually shifted her focus to writing. While she remains passionate about health and wellness, she also explores beauty and fashion as a creative outlet. Her diverse interests empower her to blend scientific insight with artistic expression.