Lipsticks for Every Era: Part 1

A very good friend of mine, Marlena, is a Hollywood make-up artist that runs around town beautifying one celeb at a time. I thought it would be fun to ask her to recommend a shade of lipstick that represents every era for those of us who LOVE vintage. In each era Marlena explains what shade of lipstick to use and why it works. Pick your favorite era of clothing you like to wear and attached is the shade that best emcompasses it. Have fun! (Part 1 includes 1920s-1950s, part two will contain 1960s-1990s)

Marlena: My name is Marlena Robbins and I am a Los Angeles based make-up artist. When asked by Chanelle to give my best recommendations for lipstick shades for ever era of clothing I was extremely inspired and excited to work on a little collection for you. I chose MAC shades because it's what I mostly work with and it was their lipsticks that jump started the company to beauty industry fame.  I hope you enjoy!

The 1920's were all about drama when it came to makeup. Dark rimmed eyes as well as deep plums and burgundies for the lips. To capture your inner flapper...I would use either the "Dark Side" or "Cyber" shades of lipstick by MAC. The finish of both leave just a bit of shine but are rich in tone.

The 1930's brought out a classic feminine look. Eyebrows were thin and the eyeshadows were soft. Lips on the other hand were the exact opposite; Bold and full. Although some women were known to wear a soft rosey tone on their lips, the main trend was deeper raspberry reds. The best color I have found to replicate this look is the "Diva" shade by MAC. It's matte in it's finish and has a richness of color that will help you to achieve that bold look!

The 1940's stayed on the feminine bandwagon but took it up a notch in the eyes. Brows were a little thicker and eyes were lined stronger. Lips stayed bold and full but with a more traditional true red tone. The classic "Old Hollywood" look was pretty much derived from this era. My favorite lipstick to help me bring out my inner Bette Davis is "Viva Glam 1". It's a true deep blue red with a matte finish. You can't go wrong with this one!

The 1950's had a very classic look much like the 30's and 40's but changed it up a bit when it came to lipstick colors. Brighter tones were brought out and your classic red tones became brighter as well. My favorite colors for this era are "Ruby Woo" or "Please Me". Both have a matte finish but stand out by the brightness of color it leaves on the lips. If you ever find yourself in some pedal pushers and Mary Janes...either lipstick will go perfectly with your outfit!

Stay tuned for part two where we will cover the 60s-90s! 

For more makeup fun follow Marlena on Instagram