Red lipstick was banned in England in the 1700s because women were perceived to be using it, along with other cosmetics, as a tool to seduce men into marriage.
Historical Context of the Ban
The ban on red lipstick wasn't simply about the color itself, but about the societal anxieties surrounding female agency and deception.
- Makeup as Deception: At the time, cosmetics were viewed with suspicion, considered a way for women to artificially enhance their appearance and therefore mislead men.
- Control Over Marriage: Marriage was a critical institution, particularly for maintaining social order and property lines. Authorities feared that women using cosmetics to "trick" men into marriage would undermine this institution.
- Class Association: Initially, red lipstick was primarily worn by upper-class women. The ban could also be interpreted as a way to regulate and control the behaviors associated with that class.
The Law and its Implications
Although the reference states red lipstick was outlawed, it is more precise to say that in 1770, a law was proposed in the British Parliament, not specifically outlawing red lipstick, but rather stating that marriages could be annulled if women were found to have used cosmetics to trick men into marriage.
Why Red Specifically?
Red lipstick, being a bold and noticeable cosmetic, likely drew more attention and therefore became a symbol of the perceived deception. Its association with passion and seduction further fueled the concerns.
