In 2020, the late Louis Vuitton menswear art director and Off-White founder Virgil Abloh posited the theory of “street trend dying,” suggesting that the retro wave would become the predominant trend in the forthcoming decade. Today, this prognostication appears to hold true in the realm of beauty, as the fashion industry’s retro resurgence permeates the cosmetic domain, and consumers’ affinity for vintage attire extends to makeup products.
At the forefront of the global rise in retro cosmetics is Lisa Eldridge, a world-renowned beauty expert and Lancome’s global creative director since 2015. Renowned for crafting fresh, natural, and delicate red carpet makeup for top-tier Hollywood actresses, Eldridge possesses a museum-quality collection of antique cosmetics. The assortment includes a lipstick case created by Cartier for Audrey Hepburn in 1954, a Northern Song Dynasty Chinese powder box, and a Victorian-era blusher set.
As the leader of the retro cosmetics movement, Eldridge has been posting related content on her YouTube channel since 2011, capturing the attention of countless fans. To date, her most popular vintage cosmetics video has garnered 830,000 views, while the hashtag #vintagemakeup has amassed over 300 million views on TikTok.
The rising popularity of retro cosmetics reflects a shift in consumer psychology, particularly among younger generations. GlobalData refers to this worldwide trend as “Retrophilia,” a deep-rooted fascination with and yearning for the past. This inclination has intensified during the COVID-19 pandemic, as young people worldwide have sought refuge in the escapism offered by retro fashion.
Social media has played a pivotal role in the spread of retro cosmetics, enabling users to access a wealth of information on the topic. Platforms like TikTok have cultivated an online community for collectors of vintage beauty products, generating millions of fans and views.
The ongoing surge in retro cosmetics presents a valuable opportunity for modern beauty companies to capture the attention of young consumers. By incorporating vintage elements into their product lines, brands such as Dior, Lancome, and Chanel have tapped into the nostalgic sentiment driving the trend. As the retro wave continues to swell, the beauty industry must embrace this shift and cater to the escapist and nostalgic desires of today’s consumers.
As the retro wave continues to gain traction, there are several key implications for the beauty industry. By understanding the emotional drivers behind this trend, modern cosmetic companies can develop strategies to capitalize on consumers’ desire for nostalgic experiences.
First, storytelling becomes increasingly important. Brands can leverage the rich historical context of retro cosmetics to craft engaging narratives that resonate with consumers. By delving into the cultural significance of vintage makeup products and their role in societal and historical transformations, companies can create compelling connections with their target audience.
Second, sustainability can be a selling point. Many retro cosmetic containers were designed for repeated use, and refilling modern products into antique vessels has become popular on social media platforms. By promoting sustainable consumption, beauty brands can appeal to environmentally-conscious consumers who value products that stand the test of time.
Third, collaborations with fashion houses and prominent makeup artists can elevate the appeal of retro cosmetics. As demonstrated by Lisa Eldridge’s partnership with luxury brands like Gucci, Prada, and Balmain, these collaborations can provide an air of exclusivity and prestige to retro-inspired products.
Lastly, beauty brands should consider investing in research and development to create innovative formulations and packaging that pay homage to the past while embracing modern advancements. By striking a balance between vintage aesthetics and contemporary functionality, companies can cater to consumers who appreciate the charm of retro cosmetics without compromising on performance or convenience.
In summary, the beauty industry stands to benefit from the ongoing retro wave by understanding the emotional underpinnings of the trend, crafting compelling narratives, promoting sustainable consumption, collaborating with fashion houses and makeup artists, and developing innovative products that merge the best of the past with the present. By doing so, beauty brands can seize the opportunity to connect with nostalgia-driven consumers and capture a significant share of this burgeoning market.
As the retro wave permeates the beauty industry, it is crucial for brands to understand the power of social media in amplifying the trend. A well-orchestrated social media strategy can propel the success of retro-inspired cosmetics by tapping into a nostalgic, connected audience.
As Nina Nowak, a senior data researcher at Combient Mix, a consulting agency, said, when consumers see nostalgic and retro content on the Internet, they will have a sense of empathy that connects with those times. The retro fashion blogger Lost in vintage fashion also said that when consuming antique cosmetics, everyone is more concerned about using the same color number and brand as Marilyn Monroe and Audrey Hepburn, making you feel like you are in a Hollywood movie. I temporarily escaped the anxiety and anxiety of reality: “At least on the surface, Hollywood has created a dreamy and charming scene for me.”
Social media helps the spread of retro cosmetics
Browse the most popular antique beauty videos on TikTok, full of popular music, life scenes and clothing combinations of the last century. Social media allows people to obtain information on antique cosmetics more extensively, and the forms presented are also richer and more diverse.
To begin, brands should collaborate with influencers and content creators who specialize in retro beauty. These partnerships can help amplify the reach of vintage-inspired makeup tutorials, product reviews, and unboxings. By engaging with influencers who have an established audience and a passion for retro cosmetics, brands can cultivate a devoted following among their target consumers.
Moreover, beauty brands should create and share engaging content that showcases the historical and cultural significance of their retro-inspired products. This content can include behind-the-scenes footage of product development, interviews with makeup artists, or deep dives into the stories behind iconic vintage cosmetics. By offering a rich, immersive experience, brands can generate intrigue and foster a sense of connection with their audience.
Additionally, companies should consider hosting events and activations that celebrate the retro wave. These can include pop-up shops, themed parties, or immersive experiences that transport consumers to a bygone era. By creating memorable events that evoke nostalgia, brands can form lasting impressions and generate buzz around their products.
Finally, it is essential for brands to listen to their audience and respond to their needs and desires. By monitoring social media conversations and engaging with consumers, companies can gain valuable insights into the preferences and expectations of their target market. This feedback can inform product development, marketing campaigns, and content strategies, ensuring that the brand’s retro-inspired offerings resonate with consumers.
In conclusion, a well-executed social media strategy is vital for beauty brands looking to capitalize on the retro wave. By collaborating with influencers, sharing engaging content, hosting events, and listening to their audience, companies can successfully tap into the nostalgia-driven market and establish themselves as leaders in the retro beauty space.