In the 1940s, teen beauty trends were starting to take shape with the debut of Seventeen magazine and the popularity of Tangee cosmetics. Tangee, a cosmetic line founded by a Long Island pharmacist in the 1920s, became a hit among both teens and adult women. Their best-selling lipstick, which claimed to change color upon skin contact to uniquely suit the wearer, was a standout product of the time.
Seventeen magazine, launched in 1944, played a significant role in promoting a fresh-faced glow through products like Pond’s Angel Face Powder and emerging brands like Tangee. The magazine helped to set beauty trends and standards for teens during this era.
Miniature products, also known as “ten-cent sizes,” became popular around this time as well. These smaller products were initially sold as samples, making them affordable for girls with limited experience and money to spend on cosmetics.
The 1940s marked the beginning of a new era in teen beauty trends, with Tangee and Seventeen magazine leading the way. These early influencers set the stage for the diverse and innovative beauty trends that would follow in the decades to come. Teenagers were starting to experiment with makeup and skincare products, shaping their own unique beauty routines and preferences.
As we look back on the beauty trends of the 1940s, we can see how far we’ve come in terms of diversity and inclusivity in the beauty industry. From the democratic lipstick of Tangee to the fresh-faced glow promoted by Seventeen magazine, these early trends laid the foundation for the beauty standards we see today. Teenagers continue to drive trends and push boundaries when it comes to beauty, embracing their individuality and creativity in their makeup and skincare choices.
