1940s Wartime

'Victory' red lips, minimal eye makeup (rations), groomed natural brows.

1940s Wartime is a historically inspired, minimalist makeup look characterized by a flawless matte base, naturally groomed brows, and a striking "Victory" red lip. Born out of the cosmetic rationing and practical needs of the World War II era, it relies on minimal eye makeup to keep the focus entirely on a sharp, patriotic pout. It is perfect for anyone seeking an elegant, retro aesthetic that feels both timeless and empowering.

To create 1940s Wartime makeup, begin by evening out the complexion with a light layer of matte foundation and translucent powder. Next, groom the brows into a neat, natural arch and apply lengthening mascara to curled lashes, skipping eyeshadow entirely. Finish by precisely outlining the Cupid's bow and filling the lips with a vibrant matte red lipstick.

Full Look Lips Retro Minimalist Natural Costume/Theme Work

~12 min 4 steps 11 products

The Kit

Matte Foundation
Makeup Sponge
Translucent Powder
Fluffy Powder Brush
Spoolie Brush
Angled Brow Brush
Matte Brow Powder
Eyelash Curler
Lengthening Mascara
True Red Lip Liner
Matte Red Lipstick

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How to Create 1940s Wartime

Perfect the Base

Apply a light layer of matte foundation using a makeup sponge to even the complexion, then set the entire face with translucent powder using a fluffy powder brush.
Groom the Brows

Brush the brow hairs into a neat, natural arch using a spoolie brush, lightly filling any sparse spots with an angled brow brush and matte brow powder.
Define the Lashes

Skip eyeshadow to mimic wartime rationing by simply squeezing the eyelash curler at the roots and applying one coat of lengthening mascara to the upper lashes.
Create Victory Lips

Outline your pout with a true red lip liner to sharply define the Cupid's bow, then completely fill in the lips using a vibrant matte red lipstick.

Pro Tips

For the crispest lip line, clean up the edges of your red lipstick with a tiny amount of concealer on a flat brush to make the Cupid's bow truly pop.
If your red lipstick tends to bleed, apply a light dusting of translucent powder over a thin tissue pressed against your lips to lock the color into a transfer-proof matte finish.
When grooming the brows, avoid drawing harsh, blocky lines; instead, use light, upward strokes with your brow powder to mimic the soft, natural arches popular in the era.

Common Questions

What does 1940s Wartime makeup look like?

This look features a clean, matte complexion, softly defined natural brows, and bare eyelids with just a touch of mascara. The defining feature is a bold, matte red lip with a sharply drawn Cupid's bow, historically known as 'Victory Red'.

What products do I need for a 1940s Wartime look?

You will need a matte foundation, translucent setting powder, and brow powder for a pristine base. The most essential items are a true red lip liner and a vibrant matte red lipstick to create the signature pout.

Is 1940s Wartime makeup good for beginners?

Yes, this style is exceptionally beginner-friendly due to its minimalist approach. Because it skips complex eyeshadow blending and contouring, it only requires a steady hand for the red lipstick application.

Why did women wear minimal eye makeup in the 1940s?

During World War II, cosmetics and their ingredients were heavily rationed, making items like eyeshadow scarce. Women compensated by embracing a clean eye look and making a patriotic statement with bold red lipstick, which was often encouraged to boost morale.

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