From Red Lips To Smoky Eyes: The Most Iconic Makeup Styles That Defy Trends And Stand The Test Of Time
Classic makeup is more than just a passing trend—it’s a language that speaks across generations, cultures, and runways. Throughout history, certain looks have carved out their own place in beauty’s hall of fame. They are the tried-and-true expressions of glamour, rebellion, or sophistication. These styles resurface time and time again, proving that some things simply never go out of fashion.
The Unapologetic Allure of Red Lips
There are few beauty statements as universally recognised and instantly transformative as the bold red lip. The association between red lips and power dates back to ancient civilisations. Cleopatra was known to use a concoction of crushed bugs and beeswax for her signature scarlet pout. In the 20th century, Hollywood legends like Marilyn Monroe and Elizabeth Taylor cemented the red lip as the defining look of silver-screen sirens.
Red lipstick’s timelessness lies in its versatility. From matte to glossy, blue undertones to bright corals, there’s a red for every skin tone and every personality. During World War II, as many products were rationed, lipstick sales soared—symbolising resilience and confidence in the face of adversity. It’s no surprise that major fashion houses always have a classic red in their collections. Social movements have also used it: suffragettes famously wore red lipstick as a sign of female empowerment.
When applied precisely, red lipstick transforms not only appearance but attitude. Whether paired with bare skin or dramatic eyeliner, a red lip is the ultimate equaliser: anyone can wear it, and it never fails to make a statement.
The Mystique of Smoky Eyes
From the kohl-lined eyes of ancient Egypt to the smouldering eyes featured on modern catwalks, the smoky eye is synonymous with drama and sensuality. Cleopatra and Nefertiti famously adorned their eyes with black kohl, not only for beauty but also as protection from the sun. Thousands of years later, the 1920s flapper embraced the look, echoing the darkened eyes of silent film actresses.
The smoky eye style hit a new fever pitch in the 1990s and 2000s, becoming a staple for rock stars and celebrities. Its appeal endures because it’s endlessly adaptable—from the steely greys of a classic smoky eye to more colourful takes in blues, greens, or burgundy. The key lies in the technique: blending. The gradient from deep, intense lids to a soft, hazy edge creates an air of mystery that’s hard to look away from.
Whether it’s a sooty, lived-in look or a crisp, cinematic finish, smoky eyes always hint at a sense of mystery and allure. At the same time, it’s a unisex look—embraced by icons of both genders, from David Bowie to Billie Eilish—proving that dramatic eyes are for everyone.
The Eternal Elegance of Winged Eyeliner
Winged eyeliner, or the cat-eye, has gracefully soared through decades without losing its modern edge. Audrey Hepburn defined the 1950s with her elegant flick, while Brigitte Bardot’s sultry wings ruled the 1960s. The beauty of the winged liner is found in its variety: slender and subtle, or bold and graphic. It’s Hollywood, high fashion and everyday glamour all rolled into one precise line.
Interestingly, the winged look takes its origins from ancient Egypt, where both men and women wore dramatic eyeliner. Today, it is a makeup artist’s secret weapon—lifting, enlarging, and defining the eyes with just a swoop and a flick. The cat-eye can be adapted for any occasion, and the development of felt-tip applicators has made achieving the look easier than ever.
A testament to its ageless appeal, the winged eyeliner continues to feature in modern runway shows and celebrity red-carpet moments, unchanged in its basic form, yet endlessly reinvented in details and dimensions.
Natural Skin: The Never-Ending Quest for a Radiant Glow
While bold lips and eyes often steal the spotlight, the pursuit of radiant, healthy-looking skin has always been at the core of iconic beauty. The 1970s saw the vogue for bare, glowing complexions, influenced by the bohemian spirit of the era. Later, supermodels of the 1990s showcased perfect skin as the ultimate luxury.
The modern take on this style is not about hiding imperfections, but embracing them. It’s skin that looks like skin—enhanced by lightweight foundations, strategically placed highlighters, and a touch of blush. This “no makeup” makeup is deceptively technical; it requires a careful balance of products to achieve a fresh and luminous finish.
What never changes is the celebration of natural beauty. International stars like Zendaya and Alicia Keys have helped popularise makeup-free movements, underlining the idea that confidence and personality are just as important as artistry.
Bold Brows: The Frame That Changed Faces
Eyebrows have had their own fascinating journey through beauty history—and today’s bold brow owes much to icons of the past. The 1950s saw Marilyn Monroe’s softly arched brows, while the 1980s gave us Brooke Shields’ legendary natural thick brows. Cara Delevingne revived this iconic style in the 2010s, proving that full brows can be both youthful and sophisticated.
The power of a brow lies in its ability to instantly update one’s appearance. Well-groomed, expressive brows frame the eyes and add structure to the face. Whether filled in, brushed up, or left wild, they communicate personality without a word. Even in makeup minimalism, a well-defined brow remains a non-negotiable classic.
Why Iconic Makeup Never Fades
The enduring popularity of these makeup styles tells a story about more than just trends—it speaks to how we use beauty as a form of self-expression, confidence, and empowerment. Red lips signal strength, smoky eyes intrigue, winged liner sharpens, radiant skin glows, and bold brows define. They have survived centuries and countless trend cycles because each style can be adapted, updated, or reinterpreted to feel fresh and personal.
What truly sets these looks apart is their universality. They cross genders, ages, and backgrounds, making them relevant for everyone—from makeup enthusiasts dreaming in colour to anyone who simply wants to look and feel their best. In the end, the icons of makeup don’t just endure—they inspire, defy, and evolve, standing forever at the intersection of personal artistry and timeless style.
