From the way we wear our hair to how we do our makeup, pop culture moments have continuously influenced our beauty looks. From Serena Williams’ braids to Jane Birkin’s bangs to Diana Ross’s lengthy lashes, there are countless beauty moments we still turn to for inspiration. So, it’s only right we pay homage to the entertainers and celebrities who have created the iconic beauty moments that have influenced us over the years. Ahead is a compilation of the 15 most iconic beauty moments throughout history.
Cher at the 45th Academy Awards
Adorned in gold for the 45th Annual Academy Awards, Cher chose a warm makeup look that accentuated her natural glow. The singer arrived with her then-husband Sonny Bono with a wash of gold eyeshadow across her lids, elongated lashes, and ample blush.
Britney Spears performing at the 2001 MTV VMAs
This performance defined one of the most memorable pop culture moments of all time. In Britney Spears’ 2001 VMA performance, she accessorized with, not only a live python, but also a healthy amount of body glitter and highlighter.
Janet Jackson as Justice in ‘Poetic Justice’
Janet Jackson’s box braids and black beret from the film ‘Poetic Justice’ remains one of her most iconic looks to date.
‘Valley of the Dolls’
Sharon Tate, Patty Duke, and Barbara Parkin’s beauty looks in the 1967 film ‘Valley of the Dolls’ feature doll-like lashes, beehive hair, and intense eye makeup, which perfectly captures the aesthetic of the time.
Marilyn Monroe in 1953
With her iconic blonde waves and signature red lips, Marilyn Monroe’s beauty look set the standard for Hollywood glamor and continues to be a source of inspiration to this day.
Jane Birkin in 1969
Jane Birkin’s trademark look embraced a more laissez-faire approach to beauty. The ‘60s style icon was known for her fringe. The signature eyelash-skimming, piecey bangs are still used as a haircut reference in salons to this day.
Diana Ross in 1975
As a member of The Supremes and as a solo artist, Diana Ross solidified her place in history as a beauty innovator. Thanks in part to her larger-than-life afro and alluring lashes, the singer embodied confidence, glamor, and sophistication.
Lil’ Kim at the 1999 VMAs
If there’s one person who knows how to make a bold beauty statement, it’s Lil’ Kim. She paired her unforgettable purple outfit with intricate eye makeup and a lilac wig on the red carpet of the 1999 VMAs. The rapper’s beauty look perfectly complemented her daring fashion choice.
Princess Diana in 1988
Though her beauty looks were a bit understated for the most part, Princess Diana loved a pop of color on the eye. She would swipe a cobalt or sky blue eyeliner along her waterline to add a modern twist to her classic makeup look.
Christina Aguilera at the 2000 My VH1 Music Awards
With a smokey eye, crimped hair, and red extensions, Christina Aguilera fully embraced the Y2K trends that are currently resurfacing in the zeitgeist.
Serena Williams at the 1999 US Open
At the 1999 US Open, tennis star Serena Williams made bold fashion statements on and off the court. She played the tournament with beaded cornrows that celebrated her heritage–the look sparked a lot of conversation since it was a departure from the more conservative hairstyles typically seen in women’s tennis at the time. Eventually, her decision encouraged other tennis players to embrace their individuality and cultural roots.
Elizabeth Taylor in ‘Cleopatra’ (1963)
In the 1963 film ‘Cleopatra,’ Elizabeth Taylor’s vivid blue eyeshadow and charcoal-black eyeliner embodied the elegance and glamor of the ancient Egyptian queen she portrayed.
Aretha Franklin in 1960
Queen of Soul Aretha Franklin was known for her structured brows, sharp eyeliner, fluttery lashes, and bouncy bob with winged ends—a timeless beauty look.
David Bowie as Ziggy Stardust in 1974
As his alter ego Ziggy Stardust, musician David Bowie turned the music and fashion industries on their heads as he pushed back on gender norms with his trademark fiery red hair and androgynous clothing.
Beyonce performing at the 2019 Coachella Music Festival
At the 2019 Coachella Music Festival, Beyoncé paid homage to historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) with her performance and on-stage outfits. In one of the looks, the singer donned a pink Balmain hoodie with Greek letters inspired by those worn by the members of Black Greek organizations. Beyoncé’s cascading waves were pulled into a high ponytail, and her glowy makeup look complemented the ensemble.
Want more stories like this?
The Most Memorable Beauty Looks From 2021
The Best Beauty Looks from the 2023 Golden Globes
Is This Poised To Be 2023's Biggest Handbag Trend?
0 Comments