Rachel Felder, a journalist and author of "Red Lipstick: An Ode to a Beauty Icon," dives into the captivating history of red lipstick. She reveals its powerful role in women's empowerment, especially during the suffragette movement and World War II. Felder discusses why Churchill protected lipstick from rationing and Hitler's disdain for it. Listeners learn about iconic figures like Cleopatra and Coco Chanel, the psychological impact of the color red, and tips for choosing the perfect shade, all celebrating red lipstick as a timeless symbol of confidence and rebellion.
Red lipstick has a rich history intertwined with female empowerment, serving as a symbol of rebellion during pivotal movements like women's suffrage.
Throughout eras, red lipstick has evolved from a marker of social class to an inclusive symbol of self-expression and confidence for diverse identities.
Deep dives
The Enduring Allure of Red Lipstick
Red lipstick holds a significant place in the beauty culture and social history, transcending time and evolving its meanings across eras. Its origins can be traced back to around 3500 BC in the Middle East, where early users employed red ochre for lip color, establishing a link between lip color and social class. Over the centuries, prominent figures like Cleopatra and Queen Elizabeth I utilized red lipstick to signify status and femininity, which helped to cement its iconic status. The transformative power of red lipstick, as both a cosmetic and a symbol of rebellion, impacts perceptions of beauty and confidence, making it a timeless staple in women's makeup routines.
Historical Symbolism and Feminist Movements
Throughout history, red lipstick has become an emblem of female empowerment, particularly during pivotal movements such as women's suffrage. During this era, women wore red lipstick to assert their identity and power, with figures like Elizabeth Arden ingeniously leveraging its symbolism for marketing during marches advocating for women's rights. The choice to don red lipstick not only represented their defiance against societal norms but also transformed it into a tool of political expression. This association with empowerment persists today, with red lipstick serving as a means for women to assert confidence in various social settings.
Lipstick's Role During World War II
World War II saw a substantial shift in the societal perception of women, as many stepped into roles traditionally held by men due to the war effort. Amidst these changes, red lipstick emerged as a symbol of women's resilience, allowing them to maintain their identities amid significant upheaval. Winston Churchill recognized its importance and chose not to ration red lipstick, understanding its morale-boosting effects on women in the workforce. Red lipstick thus became intertwined with notions of empowerment and determination, with its continued use reflecting a rejection of societal pressures on women during the war.
The Evolution of Red Lipstick in Modern Culture
In contemporary society, red lipstick remains a powerful form of self-expression and continues to evolve with changing cultural dynamics. Today, it is recognized as an inclusive symbol, embraced by individuals across different demographics and identities as an assertion of style and confidence. The modern feminist movement draws upon the historical significance of red lipstick while celebrating its diverse interpretations, allowing for personal freedom in how it is worn. As a result, red lipstick not only represents beauty but also embodies personal empowerment, inviting everyone to explore their relationship with this iconic cosmetic.
It's been on the lips of some of the most influential people in history, including Cleopatra and Elizabeth I, and really took off in the 20th century.
Why did it take on such an iconic status with the Suffragette movement? Why did Churchill choose not to ration lipstick? And why did Hitler hate it?
Joining Kate today is journalist and red lipstick aficionado, Rachel Felder, author of Red Lipstick: An Ode To A Beauty Icon, to help us unpack the power of this make-up essential.
This podcast was edited by Tom Delargy and produced by Stuart Beckwith. The senior producer was Charlotte Long.
All music from Epidemic Sounds
Sign up to History Hit for hundreds of hours of original documentaries, with a new release every week and ad-free podcasts. Sign up at https://www.historyhit.com/subscribe.