What does 100 years of Indian beauty look like?

Over the past year, WatchCut Video has been producing a video series on their website, titled ‘100 Years of Beauty’. Their videos showcase the how the concept of beauty and style changed over the past 100 years, decade by decade. In its seventh episode for this series, the US-based production house showcased dancer-model Trisha Miglani, who represents how the concept of beauty in India has evolved over the last 100 years. On their Pinterest account, the producers explain how much of the style has been influenced as much by Bollywood, as by the socio-political environment of each decade.

It was all about simplicity in the 1910s. Make-up was barely heard of, hairstyles were all about keeping it long, oiled and stern.

In the 1920s, women were fairly influenced by their Western counterparts. Hence, the braid and bright red lips to signify strength and a dash of independence.

In the 1930s, the freedom struggle took on more momentum, with women actively participating in the activities. The Swadeshi concept had taken hold, which would explain the return of the pallu, but a more independent attitude.

The freedom decade — the open, curly hair of the 1940s reflect that sense of independence, with a much bolder look, enhanced with bold mascara and eyebrows, as well as the dramatic arch.

The 1950s saw India building itself into a strong nation, which also included the acceptance of certain Western influences. The open wavy hair, carefree, pallu-less look is indicative of the free-spirit of the women of that era.

The characteristic 1960s look comprises the dramatic winged eyeliner, bold bindi, incorprating accessories such as traditional earrings and bangles, and how can one forget the rule of the pompadours.

The 1970s were all about the hippie look having finally trickled into Indian cinema, and, thus, the everyday look. Centre-parted straight hair, the trendy flicks and simple but statement hoops ruled Indian fashion. Think Zeenat Aman.

Colour made a huge splash in the 1980s, with deep pink blushes, bubble-gum lipsticks, loud eyeshadow and playful (read big) hairdos.

The 1990s saw Indian women — such as Aishwarya Rai and Sushmita Sen — making a mark on the global stage. There was a conscious effort to bring back the ‘Indian’ look, while keeping it modern.

It was all about women power and free-spirit in the first decade of the 21st century. Bold statement Indian accessories were paired with wild, flowing hair to lend an aura of bold independence. The balance was between traditional and modernity.

The 2010 decade saw women embrace their feminity, while making a mark in a patriarchal society. Nude tones, subtle Indian touches coupled with hints of the modern Western aesthetic has taken predominance in what is considered beautiful.

What do you think the next decade has in store? Click here to watch the video. (Source: Thinkstock)