Dive into the beauty evolution in India - from bold 60s to natural trends today. Discover what's hot and not. Read on!
From heavily kohled eyes of the yesteryear heroines to the minimalist 'no-makeup' look
sported by today's influencers, beauty trends have always been a fascinating reflection of the times.
India, with its rich cultural heritage and Bollywood's undeniable influence, has seen a captivating evolution in beauty standards over the past few decades.
Let's take a nostalgic trip down memory lane and explore the trends that defined each era, discovering what styles were 'hot' and which ones faded into oblivion. It's a journey through time, painted with lipsticks, bindis, and a whole lot of style!
The swinging sixties and seventies: embracing bold, dramatic beauty statements
The swinging sixties and seventies were all about embracing bold, dramatic looks. Think Sadhana's iconic fringe, perfectly winged eyeliner, and voluminous hairstyles that defied gravity. Bollywood stars like Sharmila Tagore and Mumtaz popularized bouffants, teased hair, and vibrant eyeshadows.
This era was about making a statement, a departure from the simpler styles of the past. The emphasis was on big, bold, and beautiful, reflecting a sense of freedom and experimentation.
These were the years when beauty truly started to become a form of self-expression, with women confidently embracing their individual styles and pushing the boundaries of conventional beauty standards. The use of kajal was widespread and popular.
The 1980s: Bold makeup, voluminous hair, embracing individuality
The 1980s took the drama of the previous decades and amplified it to a whole new level. Think shimmering eyeshadows in every colour imaginable, blush applied with a heavy hand, and voluminous, permed hair that reached for the sky.
Madhuri Dixit, Sridevi, and other Bollywood icons defined the era with their bold makeup and larger-than-life hairstyles. This was the era of excess, and beauty trends reflected that completely.
Hair accessories like colourful scrunchies and headbands were also very popular, adding to the overall over-the-top aesthetic. The 80s were about embracing individuality and having fun with makeup, no matter how unconventional or daring the look might be.
The 1990s embraced natural beauty with subtle makeup trends
The 1990s brought a shift towards more natural and understated looks. While bold colours still lingered, there was a growing emphasis on healthy-looking skin and subtle makeup.

Actresses like Kajol and Aishwarya Rai Bachchan popularized a more refined and elegant aesthetic, with softer hairstyles and less dramatic makeup.
The "less is more" philosophy started to gain traction, as women began to focus on enhancing their natural features rather than completely transforming them. Brown lipstick became a defining trend of the decade, along with thinner eyebrows and subtly defined eyes.
The 90s represented a move towards a more sophisticated and effortless approach to beauty.
The early 2000s embraced glamour and sparkle in fashion influenced by Bollywood trends
The early 2000s saw a resurgence of shimmer and shine, with glossy lips, frosted eyeshadows, and shimmery body lotions becoming must-haves. Bollywood influenced trends heavily, with actresses like Kareena Kapoor Khan and Priyanka Chopra showcasing a glamorous and often over-the-top aesthetic.
This was also the era of the "bling," with sparkly accessories and clothing becoming increasingly popular. While the focus was still on looking polished and put-together, there was a sense of playfulness and experimentation with different textures and finishes.
The early 2000s were all about embracing a youthful and glamorous look, with a touch of sparkle and shine.
Diverse, inclusive beauty trends celebrate individuality, natural beauty, and healthy skincare
Today, beauty trends are more diverse and inclusive than ever before. The rise of social media and beauty influencers has democratized the beauty industry, giving individuals more power to define their own beauty standards.
The "no-makeup" makeup look is hugely popular, with a focus on achieving healthy, glowing skin through skincare and minimal makeup. There is also a growing emphasis on natural and organic beauty products, as consumers become more aware of the ingredients in their cosmetics.
Contour, strobing became popular ways to sculpt facial features. The current beauty landscape is all about embracing individuality and celebrating natural beauty.
Evolution of beauty in India through the decades
From the dramatic glamour of the past to the natural and inclusive trends of today, the evolution of beauty in India has been a fascinating journey. Each decade has brought its own unique styles and influences, reflecting the changing social and cultural landscape.

While some trends have faded away, others have evolved and resurfaced, proving that beauty is truly cyclical. One thing is certain: the quest for beauty and self-expression will continue to drive innovation and creativity in the years to come.
So, embrace what makes you feel beautiful, experiment with different styles, and remember that true beauty comes from within.
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