The Evolution of Hair and Makeup on the Fashion Week Runway

Fashion Week has always been a spectacle of creativity, setting the tone for trends in clothing, accessories, and, notably, hair and makeup. Over the decades, runway beauty has evolved from understated elegance to audacious artistry, reflecting cultural shifts, technological advancements, and the imagination of designers and makeup artists.

Let’s delve into how hair and makeup have transformed, decade by decade, on the most influential runways.

Exploring the Evolution of Hair and Makeup

The 1960s: Mod Meets Glamour

The 1960s saw the mod aesthetic’s rise, bringing bold eye makeup, dramatic lashes, and clean, sculpted hair to the runway. Twiggy’s iconic exaggerated lashes and pale lips became a hallmark of the decade, influencing countless shows. Hair was often voluminous, with bouffants and beehives taking center stage. 

Designers like Pierre Cardin and Mary Quant paired their innovative designs with makeup that emphasized youth and rebellion, reflecting the counterculture movements of the era.

The 1970s: Natural and Free-Spirited

The 1970s ushered in a back-to-nature ethos, and the beauty trends on the runway followed suit. Hair was long, loose, and flowing, often styled with soft waves or left untouched for a natural look. Makeup became more subdued, with earthy tones for eyeshadow and blush. 

Designers like Halston embraced the bohemian vibe, showcasing models with minimalistic, glowing looks that celebrated individuality and the growing women’s liberation movement.

The 1980s: Big, Bold, and Bright

If the 1970s were understated, the 1980s were anything but. The era’s motto was “more is more,” as teased hair, electric blue eyeshadow, and bright blush defined runway beauty. Supermodels like Cindy Crawford and Naomi Campbell walked the runway with bold lips and dramatic contouring. 

Designers like Thierry Mugler and Gianni Versace amplified the extravagance, combining their power-suit aesthetics with equally commanding beauty looks.

The 1990s: Minimalism and Grunge

In stark contrast to the opulence of the 1980s, the 1990s brought a return to minimalism, influenced by the grunge movement and “heroin chic” aesthetic. Hair was often straight, sleek, or effortlessly messy, while makeup palettes leaned heavily on neutral tones. Matte skin, barely-there blush, and muted lips dominated. 

Designers like Calvin Klein and Prada embraced this pared-back aesthetic, reflecting a cultural shift toward understated luxury.

The 2000s: Glamour and Experimentation

The early 2000s were a time of playful experimentation on the runway. Shimmer and shine became ubiquitous, with glossy lips, frosted eyeshadows, and glowing highlighters dominating beauty trends. Hairstyles ranged from polished updos to edgy, asymmetrical cuts. 

Designers like Alexander McQueen pushed boundaries with avant-garde beauty looks, while others like Gucci embraced the glitz and glamour of the Y2K aesthetic.

The 2010s: Diversity and Innovation

As inclusivity became a focal point in fashion, the 2010s saw an explosion of diverse beauty representations on the runway. Models of all skin tones, hair types, and unique features were celebrated, and makeup and hair reflected this shift. Bold brows, natural skin, and innovative hairstyles became popular, from sleek ponytails to elaborate braiding. 

Designers like Rihanna’s Fenty collection broke barriers by prioritizing inclusivity, while makeup brands introduced products catering to a broader range of skin tones.

Today: A Fusion of Art and Individuality

In the 2020s, the lines between fashion and art have blurred more than ever, and runway beauty reflects this synergy. Hair and makeup have become storytelling tools, with models donning everything from hyper-minimalistic looks to maximalist, theatrical creations.

Makeup trends like graphic eyeliner, neon hues, and face embellishments dominate, while hairstyles include everything from natural textures to sculptural, gravity-defying creations. 

Sustainability and technology have also entered the conversation, with biodegradable glitter, plant-based dyes, and 3D-printed hair accessories gracing the runway.

Looking Forward: The Future of Runway Hair and Makeup

As the fashion world becomes more inclusive and sustainable, hair and makeup on the runway will likely continue to evolve in exciting ways. Technology, such as augmented reality and AI, may enable even more imaginative beauty looks, while a focus on individuality ensures that every face and hairstyle tells its unique story.

The evolution of hair and makeup on the runway is a testament to the power of fashion as a reflection of society. From the mod looks of the 1960s to today’s avant-garde creations, the journey is as dynamic and diverse as the world itself.

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.