The Evolution Of Eyebrows

Eyebrows are more than a shapely set of small hairs above the eyes. They bring character to your face and can even create illusions that change your face shape.

Brow trends are forever evolving. Currently, the go-to eyebrow is natural, soft, and commonly laminated. However, if you take a glance at the history of brows, you’ll discover some pretty hair-raising trends. Keep reading to explore how brows have changed over the last 100 years.

1920s 

Eyebrows became a defining feature of beauty during this era, especially for silent film actresses as facial expression was key. The most desired brows were long, thin, and downward-sloping. 

1930s

Thin eyebrows were still in style, but the look became further exaggerated with the introduction of high, rounded arches. This bold look was dramatic, yet also associated with a polished appearance.

1940s

Women started to let their eyebrows grow back in the 40s. They became thicker but were kept tidy and well-groomed. Soft glam was favorable; therefore, natural brow shapes, and especially natural arches, were embraced. 

1950s

Marilyn Monroe, the ultimate 50s beauty icon, set the brow standard. This style was similar to the 40s, but with more emphasis on a pointed arch and darker brows, regardless of hair color. 

1960s

The 60s brought experimentation and individuality into eyebrows. While Audrey Hepburn wore a fuller, less-arched brow, others opted for a return to thin, minimalistic brows, making it a decade of contrast.  

1970s

This decade was full of bright colors and beauty transformations. With the focus on eye makeup, lashes, and blush, eyebrows became less of a focal point. Like in the 60s, women wore both thin and thick brows, but both styles utilized natural hair color.

1980s

Brows were full and thriving. Bold and busy. Tweezers were thrown out and natural, unplucked eyebrows were the most-wanted look.

1990s

The 1990s marked a complete turnaround. Bushy brows were banished and everyone was over-plucking. Skinny brows came back in full with ultra-thin arches, as seen on icons like Pamela Anderson.

2000s

Those who rocked the 90s brows likely had no choice but to go even thinner. With very little eyebrows left, the solution was needle-thin brows. The thinner, the better.

2010s

This decade took a massive leap from the 2000s. Natural brows grew back into place and were tidied to achieve a crisp, clean look. Eyebrows products were used to fill sparse areas and create an ombre effect, followed by concealer to define the brow. 

An honorable mention goes to the ‘Instagram Brow’ that was iconic around 2015. Everyone who used social media during this will remember the images of perfectly shaped and filled-in brows that were definitely ‘Instagram-worthy’.

2020s

And we're finally in the present. Eyebrows have certainly been through thick and thin over the last century. So, what’s trending today?

Laminated brows, with their sleek finish, are a major trend that can be attributed to the soap brow phase. This is a trend loved by the  ‘Clean Girl Aesthetic’.

Alternatively, the skinny brow is beginning to make a comeback! Along with the resurgence of 2000s fashion trends, thin brows have been seen on many celebs and influencers. 

The truth is, there’s no single "perfect" eyebrow style. With trends changing so quickly, it’s best not to make any drastic decisions. Embrace your natural brows, have fun with glam, and feel free to get creative!