The most iconic looks in movies

Makeup in cinema is much more than just a finishing touch: it's what transforms a character, making them unique and memorable. From the legendary hairstyles and looks of Hollywood stars to the more creative and original ones in modern films, makeup has always played a fundamental role in telling stories and creating unforgettable images. In this article, we will explore some of the most famous cinematic looks, the ones that have struck us the most and continue to inspire today.

Make-up in movies: Blue Eyeshadow

Blue eyeshadow is undoubtedly one of the most iconic looks in cinema. Not only has it become a real trend of the moment, but it can be found in both niche films and big-budget blockbusters. Who doesn't remember the magnificent makeup of Elizabeth Taylor in Cleopatra (1963)? But if there's one person who made this look a true signature style, it's definitely Anna Karina in A woman is a woman (1961), where blue eyeshadow is paired with bold black eyeliner and a pink lipstick. In the '90s, the same trend was picked up by a young Christina Ricci in Buffalo '66 (1998), with a small variation: platinum blonde hair. Fast forward to today, and this makeup is worn by Mia Goth in X: A Sexy Horror Story (2022), with a simple yet striking look: besides the blue eyeshadow, a touch of mascara and lots of freckles.

Red Lipstick

The red lipstick is a detail that never goes unnoticed. It's the ideal makeup for those who want to be at the center of attention, perfect for strong, charismatic, and bold characters. In The Rocky Horror Picture Show (1975), the red lipstick is so iconic that it even appears on the movie's cover. Tim Curry, playing Frank-N-Furter, wears red lips with black lip liner, smoky eyeshadow, and thin eyebrows, creating an unforgettable look. In Ms. 45 (1981), red lipstick becomes the symbol of power for the protagonist Ferrara (played by Zoë Lund), who wears it during her revenge, with no other makeup. And what about Lolita (1997), where red lipstick is used to add a touch of seduction to Dominique Swain's character, contrasting with her apparent innocence?

The Punk Charm

Punk looks in cinema are a true symbol of rebellion and individuality. A perfect example is Gia (played by Angelina Jolie) in the film Gia – A Woman Beyond the Limit (1998), where her messy makeup and spiky hair reflect her punk personality as she enters the world of fashion. The look of Chloe Sevigny in Gummo (1997) has inspired many fashion brands: dirty face, bleached brows, and bleached hair. And then there's Grace Jones, who in 007 - A View to a Kill (1985) created one of her most iconic looks, with bold graphic makeup: flawless skin, eyes defined by intense black eyeliner, and sculpted eyebrows that enhance her androgynous and futuristic style.

Eyes at the Center of Attention

Some people love to focus on the eyes, making them the real stars of their look. With bold eyeliner, intense smokey eyes, or shiny eyeshadows, the gaze immediately grabs attention. This type of makeup is often used in cinema to express strong emotions, power, or seduction, and is the basis for some of the most memorable looks in film history. Our favorite? The one worn by the girls from Daisies (1966): with their playful style, bob haircuts, and fringes, they complete the look with thick eyeliner covering the entire eyelid, similar to the graphic eyeliner seen on Julia Fox. Elizabeth Berkley in Showgirls (1995) sports an audacious look with super-long blue false lashes and lots of glitter. Lastly, Elle Fanning's makeup in The Neon Demon is futuristic and a bit unsettling, with graphic eyeliner that elongates the gaze and metallic eyeshadows and glitter that shine under the cold lights, perfect for her mysterious character.