From Unibrows to Laminating a History of Eyebrow trends

Eyebrows are prominent facial features so, it comes as no surprise that they have featured heavily in beauty trends. Over the years, we’ve witnessed a fascinating evolution of eyebrow trends that have shaped the way we view and style our brows. In my lifetime I feel like I’ve seen it all from plucked to almost non existence and then penciled over – never really understood this one to bold and bushy caterpillar like, each decade has had its own unique take on eyebrow fashion. So, let’s take a trip down memory lane and explore the ever-changing world of eyebrows and ultimately end up at a full description of the latest trend, laminating.

1920s: The Era of Pencil-Thin Brows

The 1920s marked the beginning of the silver screen era, where movie stars like Anna May Wong and Clara Bow set the trend for pencil-thin eyebrows. These brows were meticulously shaped and featured a severe downward curve, giving women a distinct and dramatic look.

1930s: Rounded and Upward Brows

As the 1930s rolled in, a new eyebrow trend emerged. Actresses like Merle Oberon embraced a softer and more rounded shape with an upward bend. This departure from the previous decade’s downward curve showcased a more natural and elegant look.

1940s: Fuller Brows for a Softer Look

During the 1940s, eyebrows became fuller and more emphasized to create a softer appearance. Icons like Lauren Bacall and Grace Kelly sported thicker brows with a prominent arch, adding a touch of sophistication to their overall allure.

1950s: The Rise of Lush, Immaculately-Shaped Brows

The 1950s were characterized by the iconic “New Look” introduced by designer Christian Dior. This era brought forth a desire for a full face of makeup, complete with lush and immaculately-shaped brows. Hollywood stars such as Elizabeth Taylor, Marilyn Monroe, and Audrey Hepburn embodied the epitome of femininity with their perfectly groomed eyebrows.

1960s: The Era of Neat and Understated Brows

In the swinging 60s, eyebrows took a backseat as bold eye makeup became the focus. Twiggy, the iconic model of the time, sported neat and understated brows that complemented her graphic eye makeup. However, there were exceptions to the rule, with Audrey Hepburn embracing her naturally full brows, inspiring some women to embrace their own natural beauty.

1970s: The Return of the Natural Brow

The 1970s marked a shift towards embracing natural beauty, and eyebrows were no exception. The hippie movement influenced a more laid-back approach to grooming, with women opting for a freer aesthetic. Ali MacGraw and Lauren Hutton became poster girls for the au naturale brow, celebrating individuality and a carefree spirit.

1980s: Big, Bold, and Bushy Brows

The 1980s brought about a dramatic change in eyebrow trends. With Brooke Shields and Madonna leading the way, bigger was better when it came to brows. The bushier, the better, as women embraced a more exaggerated and expressive look.

1990s: The Era of Overplucked Brows

The 1990s saw a shift towards thinner eyebrows, with overplucked brows becoming the norm. Drew Barrymore and Pamela Anderson popularized the overly-sculpted look, leaving many of us with regrettable school photos. Model Kristen McMenamy even shaved off her eyebrows, making a bold statement in an industry obsessed with perfection.

2000s: From Thin to Natural

As we entered the new millennium, eyebrow trends began to shift yet again. Thin, angular brows remained popular in the early 2000s, but a more natural shape started to emerge as the decade progressed. This gradual transition set the stage for the bold brow revolution that was yet to come.

2010s: The Bold Brow Renaissance

The 2010s brought about the resurgence of bold brows, thanks in large part to model-of-the-moment Cara Delevingne. Her full and perfectly groomed brows became a symbol of empowerment and self-expression. Women around the world embraced the “power brow” trend, whether by letting their natural brows grow or by using brow fillers to achieve the desired look.

Today: The Laminating Trend

Now, in the present day, a new brow trend is making waves: laminating. Laminating is a technique that involves setting the brows in an upward, brushed-up position, giving them a fuller and more defined appearance. This trend has gained popularity among the high brow crowd as it provides a polished and groomed look that elevates any makeup or styling routine.

To achieve the laminated brow look, start by brushing the brows upward using a spoolie brush. Then, apply a brow gel or wax to hold the hairs in place. Finally, use a brow pencil or powder to fill in any sparse areas and create a more defined shape. The result is a set of perfectly laminated brows that frame the face and add an extra touch of elegance.

In conclusion, eyebrow trends have come a long way since the 1920s. From thin and arched to bold and laminated, each decade has left its mark on the world of beauty. Whether you prefer a natural look or enjoy experimenting with different styles, there’s no denying the impact that eyebrows have on our overall appearance. So, embrace your unique brow shape and don’t be afraid to try new trends because, as history has shown us, brow fashion is ever-evolving.

(Image credit: Example.com)