Keeping Up Appearances

Styling on the Go

The first hairdryer was invented in 1890 but the first handheld models did not become available until the 1920s. Metal ones like this were heavy and carried a risk of electrocution.

Sun-Tan Talc by Boots

People have chosen to change the colour of their complexions for many reasons. In the 1920s, suntans became a desirable fashion trend and the fake tanning industry has boomed since then. This sun-tan talcum powder was possibly used for theatrical productions.

Girl's World, Palitoy 1970s

Launched in the 1970s, Girl's World gave youngsters the chance to learn and practise make up and hairstyling skills on a life sized plastic doll's head. She came with lipsticks, eyeshadows, eyebrow pencils, blushers, false eyelashes, pink plastic hair rollers, hair grips, combs and a hair brush along with a book of instructions for different hair styles and fashion looks and an order form for a replacement make up set.

Eyelure False Eyelashes, 1960s

False eyelashes became popular from the early days of cinema, but the 1960s was probably their heyday. Putting your eyelashes on was part of the ritual of getting ready to go out, as it is for many of us today!

Philishave Electric Shaver

Electric shavers simplified the routine of shaving, as they were designed to be used without water, soap or foam. The convenience made them popular from the mid-20th century onwards. Introduced in 1939, the Philishave was the first electric shaver to use rotating cutters.

Dentures

Before widely available dental care, the only solution for toothache was usually extraction. Dentures or false teeth have been found that date back thousands of years but they were expensive and out of reach of most people. This all changed when a flexible rubber called Vulcanite was developed in the 1800s, meaning dentures became more affordable.