What was considered beautiful in the 1900s?

Beauty Standards of the Early 1900s: Demure and Natural

The early 1900s witnessed a distinct aesthetic ideal that emphasized demureness and natural beauty. Here’s a closer look at the prevalent beauty standards of this era:

Pale Complexions:

Society highly regarded pale skin tones as a symbol of wealth and leisure. Women sought to achieve a porcelain-like complexion, avoiding sun exposure and utilizing whitening products to lighten their skin. Pale skin conveyed an aura of refinement and elegance.

Subtle Makeup:

Makeup was sparingly used during this period, primarily to enhance natural features rather than make bold statements. Subtle tones of blush and lipstick were employed to create a delicate flush and add a slight touch of color.

Natural Beauty:

Natural beauty reigned supreme, reflecting the societal preference for modesty and a lack of artifice. Exaggerated hairstyles, heavy makeup, and other noticeable enhancements were considered unseemly. Women emphasized their natural features, such as healthy skin, lustrous hair, and well-proportioned figures.

Full Figures:

During the early 1900s, women with full figures were seen as desirable. A curvaceous body with a pronounced bust and hips was considered alluring and feminine. Women wore corsets to enhance their silhouettes and achieve the desired hourglass shape.

Long, Flowing Hair:

Long, flowing hair was highly prized. Women took great care to maintain their tresses, often using hair tonics and other products to promote growth and shine. Loose, natural hairstyles were popular, with elaborate updos reserved for special occasions.

Natural Enhancements:

Subtle natural enhancements were acceptable, but drastic measures were frowned upon. Eyebrows were groomed to enhance their shape, and henna was sometimes used to darken them. Hair was dyed to modest shades of brown or black, and teeth whitening treatments were popular to achieve a bright smile.

In summary, the early 1900s celebrated a demure and natural aesthetic. Women sought to embody refinement and modesty, highlighting their natural beauty through subtle enhancements and a preference for pale skin, full figures, long flowing hair, and understated makeup.