Before I dive into this juicy topic, let’s take a moment to pay our respects to the late Richard Simmons, who sadly passed away recently at the age of 76. Richard was not only an iconic figure but also someone who left an indelible mark on the fitness world. In this newsletter, we’ll explore the untold stories of his life and career, from his creation of the “Richard Simmons” persona to his jewelry line, interior design efforts, and plus-size activewear collection in the 1980s. As we reflect on his legacy, let’s remember how he touched the lives of countless Americans and hope that he has found the peace he deserved.
Famous Beauties Tell Their Beauty Secrets…
I have always been fascinated by beauty advice from the past, especially when it comes from celebrities. Back in the day, before product placements and spokesmodels dominated the scene, these beauty secrets felt more genuine and authentic. Nowadays, with models and celebrities endorsing products and services on Instagram, it’s hard to find advice that isn’t influenced by corporate interests. But fear not, I’ve stumbled upon a treasure trove of beauty wisdom from the archives of Cosmopolitan magazine, published in May 1967.
In this compendium, you’ll find guidance from a diverse group of celebrities, including recommendations for specific products. However, it’s worth noting that these endorsements were not driven by financial motives. For instance, Lynn Revson mentions a Revlon blush, but it’s clear that it’s not a paid promotion. Stella Stevens, known for her appearances in Coppertone ads, even suggests making love and fencing instead of relying on tanning oil. Now that’s some unconventional advice!
Most of the tips are sensible and relatable, with a slight late-1960s obsession with false eyelashes and hairpieces. But it’s important to acknowledge the limitations of this group. The thirty-seven women featured here range in age from 21 (Candice Bergen) to Joan Crawford, who was somewhere in her late 50s to early 60s, depending on which birth year you believe. While most of the women were white and blonde, there were a few exceptions, including Mary Wilson of the Supremes, China Machado, and Raquel Welch, representing the Black, Asian, and Latina communities, respectively.
This selection of “famous beauties” undoubtedly falls short of representing the true diversity of beauty in society. It’s a stark reminder of how limited the beauty standards set by Helen Gurley Brown, the editor-in-chief of Cosmopolitan at the time, truly were. Although she occasionally featured Black women on the magazine’s cover, racial diversity remained glaringly absent during her 32-year tenure. The lack of racial representation raises important questions about the magazine’s practices and policies during that era, which unfortunately remain unaddressed in the biographies written about Brown.
Now, let’s turn our attention back to the beauty advice. Remember, this is all in good fun. As for me, I’m particularly drawn to Natalie Wood’s love for saunas and massages. I mean, who wouldn’t want to indulge in a little self-care like that?
If you’re interested, here’s a previous post I wrote on celebrity beauty books, as well as one on a celebrity beauty line. But for now, let’s discover the beauty routines cherished by these extraordinary women who, just like us, have their must-have products and rituals.
Audrey Hepburn, Star of Motion Picture Wait Until Dark
“If I could only have one thing, I guess it would be a bar of soap.”
Audrey Hepburn, the epitome of grace and elegance, believes that simplicity is key. Despite her glamorous lifestyle, she cherishes the power of a humble bar of soap. It goes to show that sometimes the most straightforward routines can have the greatest impact. So, don’t underestimate the power of simplicity in your beauty regimen.
That concludes our journey into the beauty secrets of the past. Stay tuned for more delightful revelations from the glamorous world of beauty.
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