Happy Women's History Month
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March marks Women’s History Month, a time to recognise and celebrate the incredible achievements of women throughout history and the present day!
From politics and science to beauty and arts, women have shaped the world in more ways than we could count, and the cosmetics industry is no different.
This month, we want to dive deeper into the stories of some of the most influential women in history and celebrate their lasting impact on the world of beauty and self-expression.
Plus, we want this month to serve as a reminder to women everywhere that taking care of yourself is key to helping you take on the world 💖
Let’s take a walk through ‘her’story (see what we did there?!)
Cleopatra: The OG Beauty Icon
You could say that our first influential woman is one of the earliest recorded beauty influencers.
That’s right, we’re talking Cleopatra! (honourable mention, of course, to the icon that is Elizabeth Taylor as Cleopatra in the 1963 film👇)
Known for her elaborate self-care rituals and cosmetics, this Egyptian queen’s list of products included honey and milk baths, essential oils, and natural kohl eyeliner to enhance her eyes (she was even partial to a red lip made of crushed beetles!)
She popularised the use of kohl and malachite, both of which not only helped to define her striking features but were also believed to protect against the sun’s glare and infections.
While she was well-known for her beauty regimes, Cleopatra was also praised for her intelligence and military strategy, famously participating alongside Julius Ceaser in strategic planning for upcoming battles.
Cleopatra’s devotion to beauty and skincare set a bar for luxurious self-care that still remains relevant today!
Madam C.J. Walker: A Haircare Trailblazer
Next up, a true pioneer in the beauty industry, Madam C.J Walker, became the first self-made female millionaire in the United States!
After being born to formerly enslaved parents, she went on to transform the haircare industry for Black Women, developing specialised products that promoted healthy hair and scalp care.
Her line of products, called The Walker System, revolutionised haircare for Black Women, offering shampoos, conditioners, and scalp treatments tailored to the unique needs of textured hair.
Beyond beauty, Walker was also a philanthropist and activist, empowering women through financial independence and entrepreneurship.
Elizabeth Arden: A Modern-Day Skincare Innovator
When you think of luxury beauty, Elizabeth Arden is a name that stands out.
In the early 20th century, Arden reshaped the beauty industry by introducing scientific advancements into skincare.
She was among the first to emphasise a holistic approach to beauty, advocating for skincare, nutrition, and fitness as part of a comprehensive beauty regimen.
Alongside this, she also introduced the concept of makeup as a daily essential rather than something to be used on occasion, working to normalise the use of cosmetics in everyday life.
Her famous Red Door Salons offered a sanctuary for women to explore beauty in a welcoming and empowering environment.
Frida Kahlo: Beauty As A Form Of Expression
Renowned for her bold art and even bolder personal style, Frida Kahlo was known for using beauty as a tool for self-expression and cultural pride.
Embracing her natural features, like her signature unibrow and elaborate floral hairstyles, she challenged conventional beauty standards.
Her use of bright colours and traditional Mexican influences in both her artwork and her personal appearance inspired generations of women to embrace their individuality and natural beauty.
She stands as proof that beauty isn’t about fitting into a box but about celebrating your own unique identity!
Marilyn Monroe: A Timeless Beauty Icon
As a symbol of old Hollywood glamour, Marilyn Monroe redefined beauty standards and became one of the most influential beauty icons of all time.
Known for her signature red lip, platinum blonde hair, and glowing complexion, her beauty routine inspired generations of women to come.
She popularised the classic bold red lip look, often using multiple shades to create dimension and fullness.
It’s said that Monroe favoured a heavy moisturiser, embracing a dewy, radiant look long before it was trendy.
But it wasn’t just her beauty that made her one of the most famous women in Hollywood; her confidence and charm captivated audiences, proving that true glamour is as much about attitude as it is about beauty.
Barbie: Redefining Beauty and Empowerment
Since her debut in 1959, Barbie has been a cultural icon in beauty, fashion, and female empowerment.
Created by Ruth Handler, Barbie has continued to evolve to reflect the changing beauty standards and social progress within the industry.
From her signature blonde locks to an increasingly diverse range of dolls representing various ethnicities, body types, and careers, she has played a massive role in shaping what we see as beautiful and inspiring young girls everywhere.
Her message has shifted from simply being a fashion icon to promoting self-expression, inclusivity, and empowerment - showing that beauty comes in many forms and that women can be anything they want to be.
National Barbie Day also happens to fall on March 9th this month - the perfect day to celebrate the icon that is Barbie!
The women in this blog, along with countless others, have each left an incredible mark on the world of beauty, shaping the way we look at and engage with cosmetics today.
From ancient Egyptian royalty to modern entrepreneurs, they remind us that beauty is more than skin deep - it’s a form of empowerment, creativity, and self-care.
As we celebrate this month, take a moment to honour the beauty pioneers who came before us, as well as the amazing women who continue to revolutionise the industry today.
Here’s to strong, fearless women, past, present, and future 💕