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    RED LIPSTICK: A symbol of DEFIANCE

    Writer's picture: Heidi BestHeidi Best


    Hi, I’m Heidi. I have a master’s degree in fashion design and merchandising, which basically means I spent way too much money to learn that fashion isn’t just about looking cute—sometimes it’s a political statement.



    Today, we’re diving into the fascinating history of red lipstick and how it has been a powerful symbol of defiance, empowerment, and solidarity throughout history.


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    Historical Context



    Let’s start with the suffragettes. In the early 1900s, women fighting for the right to vote used red lipstick as a bold statement of rebellion. At the time, makeup was often associated with actresses and ‘loose women,’



    but suffragettes like Elizabeth Cady Stanton and Charlotte Perkins Gilman

    reclaimed it as a symbol of liberation. Red lipstick became a way to say, ‘We’re here, we’re bold, and we’re not going anywhere.’
















    Fun fact: Elizabeth Arden even handed out red lipstick to suffragettes during marches. It was called ‘Montezuma Red,’ and it became a rallying cry for women’s rights.




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    World War II and Rosie the Riveter




    Fast forward to World War II, and red lipstick took on a new meaning. With men off to war, women stepped into factories and jobs traditionally held by men.


    Red lipstick became a symbol of strength and resilience. Enter Rosie the Riveter—rocking her iconic red lips and bandana. It wasn’t just about looking good; it was about showing that women could do anything…while wearing a full face of makeup.


    Even the U.S. government got in on it. They encouraged women to wear red lipstick as a morale booster. Brands like Revlon released shades like ‘Victory Red’ to support the war effort. Talk about beauty with a purpose!







    Civil Rights and LGBTQ+ Movements



    Red lipstick also played a role in the Civil Rights and LGBTQ+ movements. For Black women, wearing red lipstick was a way to reclaim their beauty in a society that often marginalized them. Activists like Marsha P. Johnson, a key figure in the Stonewall uprising, used bold makeup, including red lipstick, to challenge norms and demand visibility.



    And let’s not forget drag culture, where red lipstick is a staple. It’s not just about glamour—it’s about breaking boundaries and celebrating individuality.



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    Modern-Day Protests



    Today, red lipstick continues to be a symbol of resistance. During the 2017 Women’s March, women around the world wore red lipstick as a sign of solidarity. It was a way to say, ‘We’re united, and we’re fighting for our rights.’.



    Even in the digital age, red lipstick is a statement. Think about how many celebrities and activists use bold makeup to amplify their message. It’s not just about looking fierce—it’s about feeling fierce and standing up for what you believe in.


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    So, what does red lipstick mean to you? Is it a confidence booster, a form of self-expression, or maybe even a quiet act of rebellion? Whatever it is, remember that fashion and beauty have always been about more than just aesthetics—they’re tools for change.

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