When we think of Coco Chanel, we think of iconic fashion, timeless elegance, and chic simplicity. But what about her makeup
Did she have a signature look when it came to lipstick Specifically, did she wear red lipstick
The Origins of Red Lipstick
Red lipstick has been around for centuries. In ancient Egypt, both men and women wore red lipstick as a symbol of status. In the 16th century, Queen Elizabeth I popularized the trend in England by wearing bright red lipstick made from a blend of beeswax and crushed flowers.
Fast forward to the early 20th century, when Coco Chanel was making waves in the world of fashion. She was known for her minimalist designs and understated elegance. But what about her makeup
Coco Chanel’s Makeup Style
Coco Chanel’s approach to makeup was just like her approach to fashion – simple and timeless. She believed that less is more when it comes to makeup. Her signature look included dewy skin, barely-there eye makeup, and a natural lip color.
But that doesn’t necessarily mean she never wore red lipstick.
The Controversial Photo
In 1924, Coco Chanel posed for a portrait by artist Moise Kisling. In the portrait, she is wearing a bold red lip color that stands out against her black dress and white pearls.
This photo has been the subject of much debate among fashion historians. Was this an accurate representation of what Coco Chanel actually wore on her lips Or was it simply artistic interpretation by Kisling
The Counterarguments
- Some argue that the photo was simply a product of artistic license – Kisling may have chosen to exaggerate the color of her lips for dramatic effect.
- Others point out that this was a portrait, not a candid photo. Coco Chanel may have chosen to wear red lipstick specifically for the occasion.
The Supporting Evidence
- There are other photos of Coco Chanel wearing what appears to be red lipstick, albeit in a more subtle shade than the one in Kisling’s portrait.
- In addition, many of Chanel’s contemporaries were known for wearing bold red lipstick. It was a popular trend at the time and it’s possible that Chanel dabbled in it as well.
The Verdict
So did Coco Chanel wear red lipstick The answer is: we don’t know for sure. The Kisling portrait is the most well-known example of her wearing red lipstick, but it’s not definitive proof.
What we do know is that Coco Chanel believed in timeless elegance and simplicity when it came to both fashion and makeup. Whether or not she wore red lipstick, her legacy as a fashion icon endures to this day.