July 29th is National Lipstick Day!
Let’s look back at the history of lipstick…
5,000 years ago the Ancient Sumerian crushed gemstones to use on the lips and around the eyes. Ancient Egyptians wore it to show social status while the Chinese made the first lipstick from beeswax over 1,000 years ago.
The first commercial lipstick was invented in 1884, by French perfumers; however, if worn in public, it was considered in poor taste. It took the famous actress, Sarah Bernhardt, who wore lipstick in public, making it fashionable.
By the early 1900’s women wore lipstick in photographs, and by the late 20’s, Elizabeth Arden and Estee Lauder began selling in their New York salons. The shades were limited then but red was always the favorite.
American actresses favored bright red colors in the 50’s. Marilyn Monroe, Elizabeth Taylor, Rita Hayworth, and Ava Gardner propelled its popularity, and by then, most American women rocked the red lips.
In 1953, Christian Dior unveiled Dior Rouge #9 inspired by his collection of Red Couture dresses. Eager “to dress women’s smiles,” Christian Dior came up with his first line of lipsticks, launching eight shades. Later on, it was labeled #99.
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