StyleNest roundup a few vintage beauty classics from our mum’s and grandma’s generation and that still sit proudly in our bathroom cabinet today. If it’s not broken don’t fix it…
From the classic Carmex to the all essential Elnett, some beauty products are best left unchanged, so that’s why we’ve rounded up the best classic cosmetics to help add a touch of old school glamour to your beauty routine.
Charlie Red Eau de toilette
First released in 1973 by Revlon to compete with the house of Estée Lauder, the Charlie scent was named after founder Charles Revlon and targeted for the “new woman” of the era. With a bouquet of gardenia, tuberose, jasmine, ylang ylang, musk and cedar, this classic oriental floral fragrance is a heady blend which never dates.
L’Oréal Elnett Hairspray
1962 saw a breakthrough in hair care when L’Oréal launched Elnett (elle meaning she and nette meaning neat). An innovative way to fix hairstyles, Elnett waved goodbye to stiff hair and welcomed a new fixing, which was silky soft to the touch.
Elizabeth Arden Eight Hour Cream Skin Protectant
Created in 1930 by Elizabeth Arden to help soothe skin and protect, Eight Hour Cream became a success due to its nourishing and healing properties. A cult classic still to this day, Eight Hour Cream helps to restore, soothe, calm, moisturise and can even be used for makeup.
Aqua Manda
Revived and re-mastered, the cult sixties scent of Aqua Manda is back and better than ever. If you recognise this bottle from your mother’s dressing table, then you will be pleased to know that the design has remained the same with a vintage style packaging and brown glass bottle. A mandarin fragrance with spicy cinnamon, ginger, aromatic lavender, patchouli, eucalyptus, tarragon and juniper this bohemian chic scent is ideal for women of all ages.
Batiste Dry Shampoo Original
With over 40 years of experience, there is no denying that Batiste is the best when it comes to dry shampoo. Batiste is a beauty cupboard essential, ensuring your hair stays looking fresh between washes.
Chanel No.5 Eau de Parfum
The first fragrance launched by Coco Chanel, No. 5 is a sophisticated scent with a bouquet of abstract flowers. Possibly one of the most ionic fragrances of all time.
Revlon Nail Enamel in Perfect Coral
Founded in 1932, Revlon became innovators in the beauty world when they developed a variety of new shades of opaque nail enamel. A classic vintage colour, this coral shade has come full circle, as today it is a fresh contemporary shade and makes for a great addition to your SS14 look.
Carmex Classic Moisturising Lip Balm
Designed to alleviate dryness and chapped lips, Carmex has been nourishing lips since 1937 when Alfred Woelbing designed a concoction to help calm his cold sores.
Maybelline Great Lash Mascara
In 1971, Maybelline introduced the Great Lash mascara, packaged in the iconic pink and green pot and cap, and it still remains a firm favourite to this day. A tried and tested formula which has been reinvented over the years, this timeless shade of very black is ideal for a layering for a dramatic evening look or simply wearing alone for everyday.
Estee Lauder Signature Hydra Lustre Lipstick
Founded in 1946, Estée Lauder had a huge impact on beauty and makeup as we know it today. The Signature Hydra Lustre Lipstick delivers a classic red lip which is a timeless look.
Max Factor Crème Puff
The Crème Puff was introduced by Max Factor in 1954 and revolutionised makeup. A cream-base powder formula which can be applied with a puff is still a favourite and offers medium to high coverage for a flawless finish.
Bourjois Little Round Pot Blusher Healthy Mix
First pioneered by Bourjois almost 150 years ago, the pressed blush formula has revolutionised application. A silky soft formula, the ultra-fine powder melts into the skin for a natural just-pinched finish.
Click here to read StyleNest’s roundup of the best nude makeup.