How Vanity Items Became Collectible Art?
source: Etsy
For collectors of vintage beauty gear, vintage lipstick cases sparkle as tangible emblems of grace, style, and allure. Unlike the no-nonsense, disposable cosmetic packaging of today, “these cases were designed to make a statement,” as the museum writes. They weren’t just containers for lipstick — they were small art objects, nestled in the handbags of chic women.
Through the early 1900s to the 1950s, lipstick cases followed the fashion of the era. They were indicative of the style, the material and the painstaking artistry of such decades. Today, collectors and beauty aficionados find them irresistible.
Designed with Beauty in Mind
Vintage lipstick cases were made of all sorts materials. Designers employed sterling silver, brass, gold plating — and then some such as enamel or semiprecious stones. Some had ornate carvings, floral inlays or splashes of hue.
The Art Deco style was in full swing in the 1920s and 1930s. This was an era of sharp lines, bold shapes, and shiny metallic finishes. Designs changed after World War II. The cases started to soften, to become more romantic. There’d be flowers, birds, pearls, symbols of femininity and luxury.
Function & Design For Any Bar Or Home Barkeeping Needs
Not only were these cases good looking — they were versatile, functional. Most came with built-in mirrors for quick touch-ups on the move. Some featured small compartments for powder, or even a small vial of perfume. They were tiny and sleek, meant for women who were forever on the go.
The quality was top-notch. Brands like Cartier, Van Cleef & Arpels and Tiffany & Co. made lipstick cases that doubled as status symbols. These were beautiful and sturdy and were designed to last for years.
A Glimpse into the Past
These days, old lipstick cases are used for a lot more than keeping makeup. They keep us tethered to another time. They make us think back to when our beauty rituals were slower, more elegant, full of consideration. Lipstick was then a bit of a ceremony, not just a component of the rush.
Collectors are drawn to such items for their charm, quality and history. Each one has a story — about the woman who owned it, the period she lived in and the style she adopted.
Caring for Your Vintage Finds
It seems as though a vintage lipstick case takes a bit of work to obey. For metal cases, Gently polish to keep your metal cases shiny. Do not use harsh cleaners, and store them correctly so as not to crush them.
Half the joy is in discovering these treasures. Search in antique stores, estate sales and online auctions. Whether sitting on a vanity or being used every day, a vintage lipstick case is a piece of circa-lipstick history, compact but significant.
